Test of English as a foreign language or also known as TOEFL is a standardised test used to measure the English proficiency of non-native speakers who wish to enrol in English-speaking universities. If you’re an international student who is looking to study in an English speaking country, then chances are you might need to take the TOEFL exam.
The TOEFL exam is widely accepted around the world in over 11,000 universities and 190 countries. It is one of the two main English-language tests alongside the IELTS.
As mentioned previously, for many international students who are looking to study in English-speaking countries the TOEFL might be a requirement in their university. Often courses will require a minimum score which will allow students to be accepted alongside the regular course requirements. Depending on the university and the course itself, the minimum score required can range from 61 to 100.
It is important to note that unlike other English-language tests, the results from the TOEFL exam are only valid for two years. If you need to apply to a university or some other course after that period, you’ll have to take the exam again.
The vast majority of all TOEFL exams are internet-based tests completed on computers. The test consists of four parts and usually takes a total of four and a half hours to complete.
The first section of the exam is reading and is entirely made up of multiple choice questions. Each reading section normally consists of three or four texts with 12-14 questions for each passage. The topic of the texts can vary from science, history, geography and literature to any other academic subject.
After they’ve completed the reading section, students will move on to the second part of the TOEFL exam: listening. Just like in the first part, all of the questions here are multiple choice. Students will hear four to six lectures with six questions each, followed by two to three dialogues with five questions each.
The third section of the exam is speaking which consists of six parts. The first two tasks will be independent and participants will be asked questions about their own thoughts and opinions. After that, during the remaining four tasks they’ll have to answer questions based on a given conversation or piece of text.
The last section of the TOEFL exam is writing. The first part involves reading a short text and listening to some information before having to summarise it in a written text. The second part, which usually takes a bit longer, will involve choosing between two questions and giving your opinion on them.
There are plenty of resources available for students nowadays so they can successfully prepare for the TOEFL exam. The first step is getting to know the format of the test. Find out what type of questions you’ll have to answer and find example tests online. By solving a few beforehand you’ll feel more prepared and confident when taking the actual exam.
If, however, you’re still feeling a bit nervous or unsure, then maybe working with a tutor is the right solution for you. TutorExtra offers a wide variety of tutors offering private lessons for the TOEFL exam. Browse through our website, choose the one you like the most and schedule your first lesson as soon as possible.
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