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.