Tips on How to Get a High Score in TOEFL in 2023 – All You Need to Know

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You probably clicked on this post because you needed information on this “TOEFL” thing. Being one requirement needed when applying to a study abroad destination, you not only need to get it, but you need to ace it.

Wondering what I’m talking about? This article will enlighten you on all you need to know about TOEFL iBT and PBT, its exam process, registration, test format, and how to get an “out of the regular” high score.

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There are many misconceptions and questions about this subject; you no longer have to worry about that. We have cleared all your doubts and confusion in this regard. All you have to do is read till the end. It’s going to be an educative ride; let’s get started!!!

See Also: Tips on How to Get a High Score in IELTS – All You Need to Know

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Tips on How to Get a High Score in TOEFL in 2021 - All You Need to Know
All you need to know about TOEFL

What is TOEFL?

Known predominantly as TOEFL, it’s an abbreviation for “Test of English as a Foreign Language.” This test is one of the world’s two major English language proficiency tests; the other is IELTS.

TOEFL is an internationally recognized standardized English test with an estimated 2.3 million test-takers yearly. Its purpose is to assess the English language ability and proficiency of non-native speakers. Usually, this test is accepted by English-speaking academia and professional institutions.

The TOEFL has existed since 1964, and it’s recognized by over 10,000 colleges, agencies, and institutions in over 165 countries. It is conducted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). To register for this test, visit their official website.

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Types of TOEFL

There are two types of TOEFL exams. They include internet-based and paper-based tests, often referred to as TOEFL iBT and TOEFL PBT, respectively.

Who needs TOEFL?

The TOEFL exam is not a compulsory test for every student; rather, you need this test score if it’s part of the requirements in the following areas;

Depending on usage, the score requirements might differ. Note that this test is a preferred English test among countries such as Germany, France, the US, and Canada.

How does the TOEFL Exam Work?

The TOEFL exam tests your knowledge based on 4 parameters which include

  • Reading
  • Writing
  • Listening
  • Speaking

Most students don’t know what to expect once they enter the exam hall. The exam questions are the same for TOEFL iBT and TOEFL PBT, just a difference in writing mode. We have carefully outlined what you will see to give you an excerpt of what you should prepare for. This section will aid you in preparing more strategically. Here’s what to expect in the TOEFL test;

The Reading Section

Here, you will encounter 10 questions from each of the 3-4 passages which make up this section. Each passage contains approximately 700 words. They base the passages on academic topics that might be found in an undergraduate university textbook.

To ace high in this section, you must understand rhetorical functions such as compare-contrast, cause-effect, and argumentation. You have 54-72 minutes in this section.

You’re expected to answer questions about details, key ideas, sentence insertion, inferences, essential information, vocabulary, rhetorical purpose, and overall ideas. Recently, they have included questions requiring filling out tables and completing summaries.

Note: You do not require prior knowledge of the subject under discussion to come to the correct answer. You need to be smart, really smart !!!

The Writing Section

The Writing section tests your ability to write in an academic setting. Expect two tasks here: one integrated and one independent.

The integrated task is to read a passage on an academic topic and then listen to a speaker discuss it. After this, you are to write a summary of the key points in the listening passage and explain how they relate to the key ideas in the reading passage.
The independent task: Here, you will write an essay based on the opinion or choice of the examiners and then explain it.

You have 50 minutes for this section.

The Listening section

Here’s what to expect in this section,

  1. 5 questions drawn from 2 to 3 conversations each (Each conversation lasts 150-180 seconds)
  2. 5-7 lectures with 6 questions each. (Lectures last 270-330 seconds)

The conversation involves a student, a campus service provider, or a professor. The lectures are on an academic topic that may involve the participation of students. Here’s some advice: Take notes when listening to the conversations or lectures because you only get to hear it once.

Wondering what the purpose of this section is? This section measures your ability to understand the English language when spoken. Also, they measure your ability to capture key ideas, implications, essential details, the organization of information, relationships between ideas, the speaker’s purpose, and the speaker’s attitude.

You have 41-57 minutes in this section.

The Speaking section

As the name suggests, they test your speaking ability. This section measured your fluency and eloquence in speaking the English language. Here, you get to fulfill 4 significant tasks. The tasks include;

  • 1 independent (Task 1)
  • 3 integrated (Task 2, 3, 4).

Let’s break it down. In task 1, you’re expected to answer opinion questions on familiar topics. This section also measures your ability to convey key ideas clearly and coherently.

In tasks 2 and 4, they expect you to answer questions drawn from reading a brief passage, listening to an academic course lecture, or having a conversation about campus life. Your answers should come from combining the information obtained from these different sub-sections.

In task 3, you will listen to an academic course lecture and answer questions about what you heard.

Note: The integrated tasks test your ability to appropriately synthesize and convey information from the reading and listening material. You’re given time to prepare before you speak.

You have 17 minutes in this section.

It is responsible for issuing official score reports in place of ETS. They send the reports independently to your prospective institutions. They send free scores to up to four institutions you select before testing day.

How Do I Register for the TOEFL Exam?

TOEFL

Registration for the TOEFL test is not as difficult as many students presume. The good thing about this is that you can register online, via phone, email, or in person. Whichever means you choose, follow these steps;

  • Go to the official website of ETS and create your profile.
  • Fill in all the information like your name, address, email id, etc.
  • Make sure the information you provide is the same as it is on your passport ( Most important, your name must match your ID exactly.)
  • Pay the application fee.
  • Expect an e-mail informing you of the date and test center.
  • Viola!!! You’re done

On D-day, the only item you will take to your test center is a valid and acceptable ID.

How to Get a High Score in TOEFL?

The desire of every student is not to repeat one exam over and over again. Who wants that? No one. Though there are no limits to the number of times you write this exam, what happens if you ace it on the first trial?

A high TOEFL score is achievable; it all depends on your preparation. To aid you in making that a reality, we have outlined some strategic, result-proven steps to help you get a high TOEFL score.

After deciding to write this exam, here are some tips to ace your test;

  • Understand the TOEFL testing format
  • Choose a writing format, either TOEFL iBT or TOEFL PBT, and practice with such a mode.
  • Learn how to take notes fast and efficiently. Trust me; you will need this skill!!!
  • Incorporate (More) English into your daily life
  • Practice speaking and writing English in a distracting environment
  • Brainstorm some speaking and writing topics before the exam date.
  • Practice using TOEFL preparation books and materials.
  • Focus on Grammar and Vocabulary (Learn extra words and use them!!!)
  • Learn how to write an English essay (Don’t assume you know it!!!)
  • Practice using a timer. This will help you manage your time well. (You don’t have the entire day)
  • Track your progress, identify areas where you need to improve and work on it.
  • Take notes during the test
  • Accustom yourself to the QWERTY keyboard
  • On the exam day, be calm and confident

Hey, nothing beats preparation. Do not make the mistake of preparing in a week and expecting a “Wow result.” Take your time to prepare, apply these strategies and smash over 330!!!

Are there Official TOEFL Preparation Materials?

Yes, ETS has provided some books and online platforms to aid you in preparing for the test. Unlike IELTS and GRE, you can get these materials. Some of them include the following;

  • TOEFL Practice Online
  • TOEFL Go! Official App
  • TOEFL Test Preparation
  • TOEFL iBT Free Practice Test
  • The Official Guide to the TOEFL Test
  • Official TOEFL iBT Tests with Audio

The practice materials for the iBT are the same as for the TOEFL PBT. Follow the link to get more information.

Frequently Asked Questions About TOEFL

TOEFL

Is TOEFL same as IELTS

Often mistaken for IELTS, it’s expedient you know that although both serve the same purpose, they are not the same. It depends on usage and the one required by your prospective university or institution.

What’s the Mode of the Exam?

Depending on your choice, exam center, and country, you can write on paper or computer. Either way, both are acceptable.

What’s the duration of the TOEFL Exam?

Depending on the mode you’re writing, the duration differs. The internet-based test (iBT) lasts between 2 hours 47 minutes to 3 hours 23 minutes (this excludes the 10-minute break in-between), whereas the TOEFL PBT lasts between 2 hours 20 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes.

What Score / Grade Range should I aim for in TOEFL?

Every university has its TOEFL score range. We advise you know your prospective school’s requirements to work with their grade point.
Aim at 120 for iBT and 310 for TOEFL PBT. This gives you a better chance to be considered via the TOEFL score.

How Long does my TOEFL result last?

Your TOEFL results last for 2 years, after which the result becomes invalid. That means that after 2 years, you can’t use that result again.

Where can I write my TOEFL test?

You can only write this test in an ETS-accredited test center in your country. Currently, there are 4,500 test centers in 165 countries. Just find out the closest center close to you and register with them.

What are the Eligibility criteria for writing TOEFL?

If you’re wondering if you need to meet some criteria to stand a chance to write TOEFL, then you should read keenly. There are no official prerequisites and no age limit; all you have to do is register if you need it.

How much is TOEFL Registration Fee?

The registration fee for the TOEFL exam differs from country to country and depends on your writing mode. TOEFL iBT costs $185, whereas TOEFL PBT costs $185. Verify for increment or additional costs at the official website.

What’s the Score range for TOEFL?

They score the TOEFL iBT test on a scale of 0 to 120 points, whereas the final PBT score ranges between 0 to 677. They base the PBT test on three scores: Listening (0–68), Structure (0–68), and Reading (0–67).

Unlike the CBT, the score of the Writing component of PBT (referred to as the Test of Written English, TWE) is not part of the last score; instead, it is reported separately on a scale of 0–6.

How do I see my TOEFL Result?

This is super easy!!! Your result should be ready 6 days after the exam. An email will be sent to you informing you that your result is ready.
Log in to your TOEFL account via the website and click on ‘View scores’ to see your result.

Conclusion

It’s easy to ace your test on the first try; you must follow the strategies outlined in this article. Also, follow the instructions outlined on the test paper.

We hope you found this piece enlightening. Get back to us once you score unusually high on the TOEFL test. Share with friends and family!!!

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