What is TOEFL Exam | A guide to TOEFL Exam Preparation, success and certification

18th December 2023 by Farhana Khan

 The Test of English as a Foreign Language, or TOEFL, is a standardized assessment tool used to assess non-native English speakers' level of English proficiency. The internationally recognized TOEFL evaluates a person's understanding and usage of English in both academic and non-academic contexts. Since the exam is a standard for admission to universities and other institutions, it is essential for anyone looking for educational opportunities in English-speaking nations. The TOEFL exam, which is broken down into four sections (Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing), offers a thorough assessment of language proficiency.

TOEFL scores are a globally respected standard for evaluating English language proficiency because they are acknowledged and accepted by educational institutions across the globe. The TOEFL score is an important consideration in the admissions process for foreign students at many US universities and colleges. In the same way, TOEFL results are used in the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

When Is It Needed?

This exam is designed mainly for students who plan to attend a college or university abroad. These days, more than 11,000 universities across 150 countries accept these results.

When applying for a job in a foreign company or one of the local branches of an international corporation, the TOEFL certification is often required. Additionally, one of the most important requirements for getting a work or student visa is having a TOEFL certificate.

The TOEFL exam is an important tool for evaluating English language skills and provides access to worldwide academic and career opportunities. It is important for people's ability to communicate successfully in English, which promotes success in a variety of fields of study and work.

What is TOEFL iBT test?

The TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test) test evaluates a non-native speaker's level of English proficiency. Through internet-based exercises, the iBT assesses verbal, written, reading, and listening comprehension. It is administered online. This exam measures English language proficiency, but because of its modern design and thorough assessment of integrated language skills, the TOEFL iBT is widely recognized internationally.

TOEFL Exam Pattern

Here's an overview of the exam pattern:

1. Reading Section (54-72 minutes): Assess your comprehension and analysis of written content. Reading passages with related inquiries is part of it.
2. Listening Section (41-57 minutes): Assess your listening skills through audio clips, followed by questions. These clips represent a variety of accents and academic contexts.
3. Speaking Section (17 minutes): Evaluate your verbal communication skills. You'll respond to prompts by speaking into a microphone.
4. Writing Section (50 minutes): Assess your writing skills through tasks like summarizing a passage, expressing an opinion, or writing an essay.

Scoring for TOEFL Exam:

The total score on the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is determined by adding together the scores from different sections. The TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test) is scored in the following ways:

• Reading Section (0-30 points): The reading section assesses your ability to understand and analyze written material.
• Listening Section (0-30 points): This section evaluates your listening skills through various audios.
• Speaking Section (0-30 points): Measures your ability to express yourself verbally in English.
• Writing Section (0-30 points): Assess your writing skills through tasks like summarizing, expressing an opinion, or writing an essay.

The total iBT score ranges from 0 to 120, with each section contributing equally.

Your scores are valid for two years, and institutions may have different score requirements for admission. It's important to check the specific score requirements of the institutions you are applying to.

Syllabus for TOEFL Exam

The Test of English as a Foreign Language, or TOEFL, does not follow a syllabus. Instead, it assesses your fluency in the English language across a range of domains. However, by focusing on the following important topics, you can get ready for the TOEFL:

1. Reading Skills: Practice reading and comprehending academic passages from various disciplines. Focus on understanding the main ideas, supporting details, and conclusions.
2. Listening Skills: Practice listening to academic lectures and conversations, as well as expose yourself to a range of English accents, to improve your listening skills. Observe the details and make sense of the main concepts.
3. Speaking Skills: Work on putting your ideas into clear, well-organized sentences. Improve your pronunciation, flow, and capacity to arrange ideas in response to different types of prompts.
4. Writing Skills: Practice writing assignments like opinions, essay writing, and information summaries to get better at it. Be aware of the overall consistency, vocabulary, and grammar.
5. Grammar and Vocabulary: Since these are necessary for both the writing and speaking sections, review the rules of English grammar and increase your vocabulary.

 

Official TOEFL preparation materials, such as practice exams and sample questions, are offered by ETS, the company that administers the test. You'll feel more at ease on test day if you practice frequently and are familiar with the format of the test. (Language Learning)

Registration for TOEFL

• The first step in registering for the TOEFL in Pakistan is to go to the official website of the Educational Testing Service (ETS).
• Register for an ETS account with correct personal data.
• After logging in, select an available test date and time.
• Make sure all the information on the registration form is correct as you fill it out.
• Pay the test fee with an electronic check, PayPal, or a credit/debit card.
• You will receive a confirmation email with important details about your test, such as the test center location, reporting time, and any special instructions after your payment has been successfully processed.
• To improve your performance on test day, make sure you are well-prepared.

TOEFL Exam FEE

The Price of The TOEFL Exam in Pakistan is $205 (US Dollars)— 58,428.48 Pakistani Rupee (PKR).

Other fees

There is an additional US$40 fee for late registration. There is a fee of US$60 to reschedule your test and an additional US$20 to reinstate cancelled scores. It costs US$25 per additional score report that is sent to agencies or institutions. It costs US$80 for each Speaking or Writing section review, or US$160 for both sections. Additionally, there is a $30 fee for a returned payment. When getting ready for the TOEFL exam, it's important to be aware of these additional costs and make plans correctly.

Who is eligible for the TOEFL Exam?

The requirements for eligibility to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language, or TOEFL, are not too complicated. Anyone who is not an English native speaker and needs to prove they are proficient in the language for work or school can take the TOEFL. The following are the main details about TOEFL eligibility:

1. Age Requirement: The TOEFL exam can be taken by anyone at any age. It is available for people of all ages.
2. Educational Requirements: Most applicants for professional certification or higher education take the TOEFL exam. As a result, candidates usually need to have finished their secondary schooling.
3. Language Proficiency Level: Although there isn't a set minimum requirement for English proficiency, candidates should be able to communicate in the language to pass the test. The TOEFL is made to evaluate different levels of proficiency.
4. ID requirement: For the most recent details on acceptable forms of identification and any updates to the ID requirements, test takers should visit the TOEFL website or get in touch with the testing facility.

People should make sure they are aware of the particular requirements of the organization or institution they are applying to because different organizations may have different requirements for the score. Candidates should also register for the TOEFL exam well in advance and follow the guidelines provided by the company that administers the test, Educational Testing Service (ETS).

Guidelines for TOEFL

It takes a planned approach to prepare for the Test of English as a Foreign Language or TOEFL. Basic guidelines to help you are as below: (Language Learning)

1. Understand the Test Format: Get familiar with the iBT or PBT format of the TOEFL. Recognize how each section is organized, what kinds of questions are asked, and how much time is allocated for each.
2. Consistent practice is key. Use official TOEFL practice materials, including sample questions and full-length practice tests.
3. Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weaknesses in reading, listening, speaking, and writing.
4. Improve Time Management: The TOEFL is a timed test, so practice managing your time effectively.
5. Enhance Reading Skills: Practice reading academic passages from various subjects. Focus on identifying main ideas, supporting details, and understanding.
6. Improve Your Listening Skills: Listen to a variety of English accents, including academic lectures and conversations.
7. Work on Speaking Fluency: Improve Your Speaking Fluency by Consistently Speaking English. Try recording your responses and improve your fluency.
8. Improve Writing Skills: Develop Your Writing Skills by Writing Essays, and Summaries. Be mindful of your vocabulary, grammar, and overall organization.
9. Develop Vocabulary: Read frequently and involve yourself in academic and general-purpose papers to increase the scope of your English vocabulary.

• Review Mistakes: Examine your practice test results and identify any mistakes you made. Pay attention to your places of improvement and modify your study schedule as necessary.
• Stay Calm on Test Day: Get a good night's sleep before the exam, eat well, and arrive at the test center early. Stay calm and focused during the test, and manage your time well.

What is the timeframe for receiving the results?

Your selected format will determine how you receive your TOEFL score. In case you take the TOEFL Test, your result will be available in your ETS account six days following the test date.

However, the exact timeframe may differ. When scores are available, scores are notified via email by ETS, the company that administers the TOEFL. Always visit the official website to stay up-to-date on any updates or modifications.

Reinstating your scores and performing a score review:

By filling out and sending in the relevant form, you can request a score review or have your scores restored through your ETS account:

Request Form: TOEFL iBT Score Reinstatement (PDF)

Request Form: TOEFL iBT Score Review (PDF)

How long is the TOEFL valid?

Scores on the TOEFL remain valid for two years after the test date. Put simply, the results are valid and useful for two years. When preparing to use TOEFL results for applications to colleges or other purposes, it is important to keep this timeline in mind. The scores are considered expired after two years, and if updated scores are needed, people might have to retake the TOEFL.

Is it possible to retake the TOEFL IBT exam?

You can retake the TOEFL iBT exam. You can take the test as many times as you'd like, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Waiting Period: There is a three-day waiting period between each attempt. You have to wait at least three days before scheduling another test if you have already taken it and would like to retake it.
2. Test Dates: You are free to select any date that works best for your schedule to take the TOEFL iBT. But be aware that test dates can fill up fast, so it's best to sign up early in advance.
3. Total Attempts: While there is no limit on the total number of times you can take the TOEFL iBT, it's essential to consider your specific needs and the requirements of the institutions you are applying to.
4. Score Reporting: During the score-reporting process, you and the colleges you select will be able to see your scores from every TOEFL iBT attempt you've taken over the previous two years.

Consider your options carefully and note any areas where you can improve before selecting to retake the TOEFL iBT. Sufficient preparation and focused study will increase your chances of getting a better score on your next try.

Conclusion:

For non-native English speakers who want to study or work in English-speaking environments, the TOEFL exam is essential. It evaluates reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills and is used as a guide for university admission and jobs in large organizations. Effective preparation is essential for success, use official materials and test formats such as the Internet-Based Test. Because of its wide popularity, it is useful not only in educational institutions but also in the global job market, helping individuals understand it. Test takers have the freedom of achieving their language proficiency objectives through retakes or fresh starts because of to the exam's two-year score validity.

 

 

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