How to Study for the TOEFL

Introduction

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is an important part of a foreign student’s application to an English-speaking university or college. A high TOEFL score reassures a school that the applicant can communicate and learn effectively in English. Mastering the topics tested on the TOEFL--reading, listening, speaking and writing--is essential in TOEFL success. A high TOEFL score is possible with the proper preparation and study plan. Read on to learn how to study for the TOEFL.

Steps

1 Step One

Familiarize yourself with the format and directions of the TOEFL, whether it’s the paper or the Internet-based version.

2 Step Two

Listen to the English language with the help of audio compact discs, digital audio files or software. Many online retailers sell a wide variety of computer programs that teach English.

3 Step Three

Read a reliable TOEFL study guide. There are many good guides on the market. The Official ETS Study Guide is your best bet, since ETS writes the TOEFL itself.

4 Step Four

Practice taking the TOEFL under timed conditions, just like on test day. The more you simulate such conditions, the less likely you will be nervous when the time comes for you to take the actual TOEFL.

5 Step Five

Hire a tutor, if financially feasible. A private instructor can correct any mistakes you are making before they become habits. A tutor will also serve as a motivator and confidant when you feel down about your TOEFL progress.

Tips & Warnings

• Begin studying for the TOEFL one to two months before test day. Studying right before the exam seriously hinders your chances of a great TOEFL score.
• Take breaks when studying for hours at a time.

How to Get a Better TOEFL Score

Introduction

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is an exam that measures competence in the English language. Students can practice it in three different formats but the new Internet-based test (iBT) is quickly becoming the default. The TOEFL tests four language areas and has a maximum score of 120.

Steps

1 Step One

Contact the university of your choice to find out what their TOEFL admission requirements are. These vary from university to university.

2 Step Two

Join the Educational Testing Service (ETS) online community. By signing up you gain access to previous TOEFL samples. You can take online practice tests that simulate the TOEFL experience.

3 Step Three

Look online for English as a Second Language Independent Study Labs. Another example, Om Audio, will help you get used to American and British accents.

4 Step Four

Read American newspapers and magazines daily. Apart from keeping up to date with current events you will become acquainted with mainstream speech style. This will enhance your score potential for the reading section of the TOEFL which is worth 30 points.

5 Step Five

Watch English language films or television. Listening to native English speakers will give you intuitive experience into what it's like to converse with students and faculty. This will enhance your scoring potential for the listening section of the TOEFL which is worth 30 points.

6 Step Six

Talk to people. Using English to communicate with family, friends and others is the best way to practice speaking the language. This will enhance your score potential for the speaking section of the TOEFL, worth 30 points.

7 Step Seven

Use the Internet to write. Take advantage of chat rooms, discussion forums and email to communicate with others in English. This will enhance your score potential for the writing section of the TOEFL, worth 30 points.

Tips & Warnings

• Individual US colleges and universities have different admission standards for TOEFL scores.

How to How to Appeal a TOEFL Result

Introduction

Your Test of English as a Foreign Language--or TOEFL--score can determine whether or not you are accepted at an English-speaking university. Most English-speaking universities require a score of at least 213 for admission. If you feel that your TOEFL score does not reflect your true spoken or written ability in English and a university has denied you admission based solely on your TOEFL result, you can sometimes appeal that particular university's admission decision.

Steps

1 Step One

Determine your exact TOEFL score and the TOEFL score requirement of the university to which you were denied admittance.

2 Step Two

Know that if you were denied admission based solely on the results of your TOEFL exam, some universities merely require that you retake the TOEFL exam before admittance.

3 Step Three

Investigate the university's admission policies to determine whether you will be allowed to appeal your denial of admission based on a TOEFL score. Some universities, for example, administer an alternate and additional English test or have additional English course requirements for students who have not met the minimum TOEFL standard.

4 Step Four

Consider applying to schools that allow you to appeal the TOEFL test as an admissions requirement. Some American schools will allow you to write a letter, stating that your English is strong enough that you do not need to take the TOEFL exam to show proficiency. You will need to send supporting documentation along with your letter.

Tips & Warnings

• It may be easier to retake the TOEFL, rather than appealing its results.
• Always go through the proper channels when communicating with a university. Determine whether the university has an admissions review committee or an appeals board, as these should be the groups to whom you communicate your appeal.
• You cannot appeal your TOEFL score to the ETS, which administers the exam, except under extraordinary circumstances. Instead, you must appeal to individual universities.
• A university may have denied you admission for reasons other than, or in addition to, your TOEFL score. Be sure that you know exactly why you have been denied admission.

How to Start a New Career with a TOEFL

Introduction

Foreign-born students attending attending American universities need to accrue as many tools as they can to assure success. The Test of English as a Foreign Language, or TOEFL, can help a student prove his or her ability to speak and understand English. A graduate can retain these test scores when applying for work to overcome any doubts an employer may have about a student's abilities. Read on to learn more.

Steps

1 Step One

Prepare for the TOEFL before you take it. A high score can bode well for entrance to a university of your choice as well as on a job interview.

2 Step Two

Visit the TOEFL website at ets.org to learn all that is required of test takers and how best to succeed.

3 Step Three

Take as many practice tests as you can afford, using the results to increase your proficiency in areas that are weak.

4 Step Four

Request a copy of the test and the results to use on your resume. The TOEFL is not always kept as a part of your transcripts.

5 Step Five

Educate employers about the test. Overcome objections to your abilities to speak English well with the proper documentation provided by a recognized and respected test.

Tips & Warnings

• Eat well before the test. Your concentration and alertness will be increased with a high protein meal.
• Get plenty of sleep the night before the test. Cramming can leave you more exhausted and less prepared than you might think.
• Relax. Repeat positive affirmations to yourself such as, "I am well-prepared," or "I will do well on the test." Worry only feeds stress which interferes with success.

How to Find a TOEFL Tutor

Introduction

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a test for non-native English speakers. It evaluates how well he or she can read, write and speak English. Individuals who are planning to take the test will often benefit from an experienced TOEFL tutor. Read on to learn how to find a TOEFL tutor.

Steps

1 Step One

Decide on a budget for your TOEFL tutoring and the amount of time that you wish to spend on your tutoring. These decisions will influence whether you choose an individual tutor, a tutoring center or self-instruction with guides and test prep materials.

\2 Step Two

Ask friends, instructors or coworkers for recommendations if they have taken the test and used a tutor. Getting recommendations will give you more information about a potential tutor than you can gain through an ad.

3 Step Three

Look in the local phone book for TOEFL tutors near you. Tutors may work independently or as part of a tutoring company such as the Princeton Review. Each situation has its own benefits and will offer varying situations in terms of where the tutoring takes place, the price and training that the tutor may have.

4 Step Four

Search online for tutors or instructional materials. You will find sites that offer online instruction and guidance to prepare for the TOEFL. For individuals who are do-it-yourselfers, look for test preparation materials such as books and guides. There are even mp3 downloads available that focus on getting ready for the TOEFL.

5 Step Five

Make a list of potential tutors. Ask about references, their experience in tutoring for the TOEFL and tutoring methods.

6 Step Six

Choose a tutor from your list and begin preparing for the TOEFL.

Tips & Warnings

• If you can, make use of online resources such as guides and practice tests in addition to your tutoring. This way you’ll gain several perspectives on how to prepare for the TOEFL. The TOEFL website offers free guides and practice tests as one source for these resources.

How to Find a TOEFL Test Center

Introduction

English-speaking colleges and universities require non-native English speakers to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). These institutions require that foreign students be fluent enough to communicate and learn effectively in the classroom. Since these applicants live in many different countries, the Educational Testing Service (ETS) has TOEFL test centers in many different countries as well. Finding the TOEFL test center near you is simple.

Steps

1 Step One

Visit the ETS website.

2 Step Two

Click on “Find a Test Center” under the “Quick Links” section. You may have to scroll down the page to see this heading.

3 Step Three

Choose “TOEFL Test Centers” under the “Find a Test Center” heading. You may have to scroll down the page.

4 Step Four

Select “Information and Registration Bulletin” under “Test Centers.” A PDF file containing the TOEFL test center locations will open when you click on this link. In addition to TOEFL test center locations, the file also includes a registration form and other useful information for potential TOEFL test takers.

5 Step Five

Search the bulletin for your desired location. Note that these are general locations; a test center may be within a 50-mile radius of a specific location listed. These TOEFL test center locations are subject to change.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a location that is near you but not the closest TOEFL test center location to you, if possible. Choosing a location that's a little farther away will make the TOEFL seem more like an "event" that you need to take seriously.
• The "Information and Registration Bulletin" only lists locations for the Internet-based TOEFL. To see up-to-date TOEFL test center locations that offer the paper-based version as well, you will need to go through the process of actually registering for the TOEFL.

How to Dress to Take a TOEFL

Introduction

Unlike dressing up for an interview, knowing how to dress for an exam is not necessarily a daunting task. It may even look like a trivial thing to consider when there is so much more to worry about. But it is always better to get the little things out of the way, so you can concentrate on the bigger challenges.

Steps

1 Step One

Dress to blend in. As this is a place where many foreign nationals gather, it is easy to get lost in the ethnic display of diverse fashion. But remember, everyone is there with a serious goal, and no one wants to be distracted by your clothing choice. Always try to dress the part, so you don’t feel out of place.

2 Step Two

Choose clothes that you have worn before, so that you already know how they look on you, and set them out the previous night. Make sure to try on your outfit before the day of the exam.

3 Step Three

Dress in anything that makes you feel comfortable and not too self-conscious. You need all that focus on the exam and not on wondering if anything is sliding up or sliding down. Cotton clothes are preferabe, as cotton is a breathable fabric.

4 Step Four

Apply perfume, makeup, cologne or after-shave sparingly. You don’t want to suffocate everyone around you.

5 Step Five

Wear long hair in ponytail or clipped together to keep the hair from falling on your neck and face.

6 Step Six

Dress appropriately for the weather and remember that exam rooms can sometimes be a little extreme in temperature. So be prepared. Wear a thin cotton t-shirt and then layer it up, so you have the choice of taking off the jacket if the heat is up and you still feel comfortable.

7 Step Seven

Look sophisticated and smart. It is an undeniable fact that if you look good, you feel good. This would certainly contribute to your mood and approach during the exam.

Tips & Warnings

• Limit your accessories. You don’t want layers of bracelets bungling or chunky chains on you jeans clanking around during the exam.
• Avoid clothes that are bright or gaudy. Green is said to be a pleasant shade for the eyes, and you can try other light colors too. Avoid t-shirts with offensive prints, slogans or bad language.
• Don’t wearing tight clothes as this may bunch around and cause irritation and discomfort.

How to Enroll in a TOEFL Course

Introduction

Enrolling in a course to prepare for the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a great way to improve chances of a high score. Take TOEFL prep courses online through various websites or in-person in traditional classroom settings. Find quality TOEFL courses by following a few easy steps.

Enrolling in an Online TOEFL Course

Steps

1 Step One

Get online and go to your favorite search engine. Perform a search for “Online TOEFL Course.”

2 Step Two

Look through the results list and click on websites that sound professional. See "tips" for some of the criteria to help you determine if it is a legitimate course offering.

3 Step Three

Select several websites and compare criteria such as TOEFL course curriculum, cost and the credentials of the organization offering the course.

4 Step Four

Follow the steps on the chosen TOEFL course website to enroll.

Enrolling in a Classroom-Based TOEFL Course

Steps

1 Step One

Do an online search for “TOEFL Course and (your state).” For example, try “TOEFL course and New York.” This search will bring up results from both state colleges and universities offering TOEFL prep courses and courses at designated testing preparation centers as well.

2 Step Two

Select links to course offerings at local colleges and universities.

3 Step Three

Read about course curriculum to determine if the course will cover the areas of study you require.

4 Step Four

Locate cost information for the TOEFL course on the college or university website.

5 Step Five

Select links to test preparation centers from your search engine result list.

6 Step Six

Read the curriculum of the TOEFL prep courses at the preparation centers and compare with that of local colleges and universities.

7 Step Seven

Note cost information for TOEFL courses at test prep centers and compare with costs of similar courses at local colleges and universities.

8 Step Eight

Follow instructions to enroll in TOEFL prep course on either the college or university’s website, or the testing prep center’s website.

Tips & Warnings

• Kaplan and The Princeton Review are both examples of reputable test prep centers that offer TOEFL courses around the country.
• Reliable online TOEFL course websites should have minimal spelling errors, a recent copyright date, and valid contact information, such as a mailing address.

How to Find TOEFL Practice Questions

Introduction

Earning a good score on the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) can help non-native speakers of English get into the college or university of their choice. Studying with practice questions increases the chances of a high TOEFL score. There are several ways to find practice questions to prepare for the TOEFL, some available for purchase and some free of charge.

On TOEFL's Website

Steps

1 Step One

Go to the official TOEFL website and find the link for TOEFL Practice Online.

2 Step Two

Register for the TOEFL Internet-based test (IBT) in order to access a free sample test with questions used on previous TOEFL IBTs.

3 Step Three

Purchase additional practice tests through TOEFL’s website. Topics range from reading and listening practice to speaking practice.

On Public and Academic Library Websites

Steps

1 Step One

Go to your local public library’s website. If you are already a member of an academic institution, go to their library’s website.

2 Step Two

Look for a link to the library’s research databases.

3 Step Three

Find a database called “LearningExpressLibrary” and log in.

4 Step Four

Select “TOEFL Preparation” from the list of featured resources.

5 Step Five

Click on the TOEFL practice test you’d like to take.

At Public and Academic Libraries

Steps

1 Step One

Go to your local public library or, if you are enrolled at an academic institution, go to your college or university library.

2 Step Two

Access the library’s catalog and do a keyword search for “TOEFL,” or ask a librarian for practice test books for the TOEFL.

3 Step Three

Check out any books, CD-ROMs, sound or video recordings that cover TOEFL practice questions.

Tips & Warnings

• If your local public library doesn’t subscribe to the LearningExpressLibrary database, search the websites of other area public library systems until you find one that does. Once you have a library card for a particular library, most allow remote access to databases with the library card number.
• Check the copyright date on any test preparation materials checked out from the library. Some resources may be too old to be relevant for the current TOEFL test.
• Read the fine print on TOEFL’s website, and any other website that offers free practice tests. Sometimes you have to register or pay for goods and services in exchange for the “free” practice tests.

How to Get a Study Guide for TOEFL

Introduction

The Test of English as a Foreign Language, or TOEFL, is given to foreign students who wish to study in English at US colleges and universities. This test measures a student's English-language proficiency in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Follow these steps to get a study guide that will prepare you to take the TOEFL.

Steps

1 Step One

Register for the paper-based or the Internet-based test. Visit the Education Testing Service website, and select the TOEFL link. Choose the link "Register for the Test" in the middle of the TOEFL Test Directory page.

2 Step Two

Return to the Test Directory page and choose the "Products" link at the top. This will take you to the Products Directory page. On the left side of this page, choose "Resources for Test Takers." Then, at the Resources page, click the link for "Preparing."

3 Step Three

Find the heading "Assessing English as a Second Language," and choose the link for "TOEFL ITP Test Preparation Products."

4 Step Four

Go to the TOEFL Institutional Testing Program page. Decide whether you want one of the paper-based guides, "TOEFL Sample Test 6th Edition," or "TOEFL Test Preparation Kit, 2nd Edition." These guides offer hundreds of practice questions that generally appear on the test. Choose one of the links to place your order on the ETS website with a credit card.

5 Step Five

Select the "Store" link at the top of the TOEFL Institutional Testing Program page if you'd rather get the guide for the online test. The ETS store features "The Official Guide to the New TOEFL iBT With CD-ROM, 2nd Edition." This gives the advantage of on-screen reading and writing practice, and audio passages to work on your listening skills. At the description page, choose the "Buy now" link to order by mail.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also order the TOEFL study guides at other online bookstores. Pick up a copy from a local bookstore if you don't want to wait for delivery.

How to Get Financing to Pay for TOEFL

Introduction

Passing the TOEFL can be an important step for non-native speakers of English on their way to studying in the United States or Canada. A good score can mean admission to an undergraduate program, or even winning an assistantship to help cover the expenses of graduate school. The company that offers TOEFL, the Educational Testing Service, offers little assistance to those students who cannot afford the cost of the exam. There are, however, some ways to try and obtain funding. Read on to find out more.

Steps

1 Step One

Apply for the fee reduction service offered by the Educational Testing Service. This is a one time voucher that cuts the price of the TOEFL about in half. It is available to non-native speakers of English who are attending high school in the United States. Applications can be downloaded from ETS's website, and have portions that must be completed by both the student and her guidance counselor.

2 Step Two

Check with independent cultural or ethnic organizations to see if they offer vouchers. These groups offer aid to both those who live in the United States and those who are just looking to study there. Many such organizations representing different countries exist, and offer aid based on their own set of criteria. Usually, they offer a limited number to students who have the greatest need and/or have demonstrated high achievement.

3 Step Three

Inquire at your own school about fee assistance. Many institutions offer some kind of aid to those who need help applying to universities.

4 Step Four

Apply for a Fulbright scholarship. Should you be nominated, the Fulbright Commission will bear the costs of the exam.

How to Know the Requirements Before Taking the TOEFL

Introduction

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) measures how well a person understands and uses English. People whose first language is not English may need to demonstrate satisfactory performance on the TOEFL to gain admission to a college or university at which English is the basic language. Before taking the test, you need to know how to plan for the test. Read on to learn how to know the basic requirements before taking the TOEFL.

Planning for the Test

Steps

1 Step One

Listen to English-speaking radio programs often to become comfortable with the rhythms, sounds and speed of the spoken language. Make a point of listening to different types of voices. When possible, focus on English as it is spoken in North America.

2 Step Two

Ask your English instructor if he or she feels you're ready to take the test.

3 Step Three

Read all the information given on the TOEFL website. Since the website is written in English, you can get a feeling for how well you gain and use information from the written language. The website explains where and when you can take the test, how to register and the cost of the test.

4 Step Four

Practice with the sample test questions on the TOEFL website.

5 Step Five

Decide whether you will be taking the paper-based test or the Internet-based test. The TOEFL website will give you the information you need to make that decision.

Taking the Test

Steps

1 Step One

Take the Internet-based test if you choose, which is described in detail on the TOEFL website. Practice questions are provided there to give you a good idea of what the test is like.

2 Step Two

Complete the paper-based test as an alternative, which will take about three and a half hours. Most of the questions are multiple choice. It includes a "Listening" section that focuses on English as spoken in North America, a "Structure and Written Language" section, which tests knowledge of standard English and a "Reading Comprehension" section. In addition, the test includes a test of your ability to write on an assigned topic.

3 Step Three

Budget your time. As you work through each section, keep track of how many questions are left and how much time remains. When you just cannot decide on the correct answer to a question, move on to the next one. If there is extra time after you finish the section, you can return to any questions that you have not answered.