The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is one of the most widely recognized English proficiency exams globally. It serves as a bridge for non-native English speakers to access higher education in English-speaking countries, open career doors, and achieve personal academic goals. If you're wondering how to do well in this exam and why it matters, this article will guide you step-by-step toward achieving a great TOEFL score and realizing your dreams.

Why Take the TOEFL?

The TOEFL measures your ability to use and understand English in academic settings. It’s a requirement for admission to many colleges and universities in English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, the UK, and Australia. Here are some key benefits of taking the TOEFL:

1. Global Opportunities: A good TOEFL score opens doors to study at prestigious institutions to enhance your career prospects and personal growth. For instance, many students use their TOEFL scores to apply for scholarships, internships, and research opportunities, which solidifies their academic journey.

2. Standardized Recognition: TOEFL is accepted by over 11,000 institutions in more than 150 countries, making it one of the most trusted language proficiency tests. This global acceptance guarantees that your efforts are recognized wherever you go.

3. Skill Certification: It evaluates all four key language skills: reading, listening, speaking, and writing, which provides a holistic measure of your English proficiency. This makes it a comprehensive tool to demonstrate your readiness for academic challenges in a college or university where the language of instruction is English.

4. Academic Preparation: Preparing for the TOEFL improves your academic skills, including critical reading, essay writing, and effective communication. These skills are vital for success in higher education and professional settings where English is the primary language of communication.

What is a Good TOEFL Score?

TOEFL scores range from 0 to 120, with each section (Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing) scored out of 30. A "good" score depends on your target institution’s requirements. A score of 100+ is typically required for institutions like Ivy League schools and other top-tier universities. This demonstrates a high level of proficiency suitable for rigorous academic programs. Scores between 80-100 are sufficient for many universities worldwide. This range indicates that you have a firm grasp of English for academic purposes. Some institutions or specific programs accept scores in the range of 60-80. While lower, this still demonstrates foundational proficiency.

A strong score not only meets admission requirements but can also strengthen scholarship applications and visa approvals in some cases. Additionally, high scores may exempt you from taking remedial English courses, saving you time and money (if you are paying for your tuition).

Steps to Do Well on the TOEFL

Achieving a high TOEFL score requires focused preparation, a strategic approach, and persistence. Here’s how to do it:

1. Understand the Format

The TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test) consists of four sections:

• Reading: This section includes 2-3 academic passages with 10 questions each. You have 54-72 minutes to complete it. Practice understanding main ideas, details, and inferences to excel. Most questions are very detailed.

• Listening: You’ll hear 3-5 academic lectures and 2-3 conversations, followed by 5-6 questions each. This section lasts 41-57 minutes. Active listening and note-taking are crucial here. You should work on your skill to take effective notes in a short period of time.

• Speaking: This includes 3 to 4 tasks: 1 independent and 3 integrated. The integrated tasks combine reading, listening, and speaking. You’ll have 10 to 17 minutes to complete this section. Practice speaking clearly and structuring your responses logically. Here, it would be in your best interest to speak as naturally as possible without limiting yourself into a fix speaking framework.

• Writing: This section has 2 tasks: two integrated task (combining reading and listening), and there used to be an independent task (an essay) just a while ago. You’ll have 40 to 50 minutes to write well-organized and coherent essays. Here, the best skill that can help you is to organize your though and also type faster as the time is moving very fast.

Familiarizing yourself with the format reduces anxiety and helps manage time effectively during the exam.

2. Set a Target Score

Determine the TOEFL score required by your dream institution and set it as your goal, at least this is what I personally did when I was preparing for college application. For example, if your target university requires 90, aim for 100 to give yourself a buffer. Break your overall target into section-specific goals to focus your preparation.

3. Develop a Study Plan

Dedicate at least 2-3 hours daily to TOEFL preparation. Divide this time among the four sections based on your strengths and weaknesses. Allocate extra time to your weaker areas. For instance, if listening comprehension is challenging, focus on improving your note-taking and understanding of different accents. Additionally, take full-length practice tests weekly to track progress and build endurance. Simulating real test conditions helps you manage time and stay focused during the actual exam.

4. Use Reliable Resources

Here are some resources that you can use while preparing for the TOEFL:

• Official TOEFL Materials: ETS (the TOEFL test maker) provides sample questions, practice tests, and guides that mirror the actual test.

• Online Platforms: At Afghan Scholars Academy, we offer free TOEFL preparation classes that cover all sections with meticulous guidance. Your instructor will go through each type of question and guide you on how to ace them.

• Apps and Books: Utilize mobile apps like Magoosh or TOEFL Prep and preparation books like "The Official Guide to the TOEFL Test" to supplement your learning.

5. Master the Four Skills

• Reading: Improve comprehension by reading academic articles, journals, and newspapers. Practice summarizing passages and answering questions under timed conditions. "Extensive Reading", a series of academic reading books are some of the best reading materials. If you need these books, reach out to one of ASA's TOEFL tutors.

• Listening: You can improve your listening skills by tuning into podcasts, TED Talks, and English news channels. Focus on understanding the main points and supporting details. Taking notes while listening would be an extra help for your exam skills.

• Speaking: Practice speaking on various topics. If you are really serious about improving your speaking, record yourself, listen critically, and identify areas for improvement. Partnering with a friend or tutor can also boost confidence. You can use Afghan Scholars Academy's Discord Server to meet friends who are also preparing for the TOEFL and practice your speaking with them.

• Writing: Develop essay-writing skills by practicing integrated and independent tasks. Focus on organizing your thoughts, using varied vocabulary, and proofreading your work. One of the best writing tips I always give to people is to make sure you make the reader feel you while writing. So, make the reader feel what you really want to say.

6. Learn Time Management

Each TOEFL section is time-bound. Practice under timed conditions to develop a rhythm that you can complete all tasks. For instance, dedicate specific minutes to read, analyze, and answer each question in the reading section. And the same goes for the other sections.

7. Seek Feedback

Take advantage of Afghan Scholars Academy’s experienced mentors to review your practice tests, essays, and speaking tasks. Constructive feedback helps identify strengths and areas for improvement, and making a steady progress.

8. Stay Motivated

Preparing for the TOEFL can be challenging, but persistence pays off. Set short-term, achievable goals and reward yourself for meeting them. For example, treat yourself to a favorite activity after completing a practice test. This might sound very simple, but it really helps build confidence and motivation.

Tips for Success on Test Day

• Arrive Early: Familiarize yourself with the test center and arrive well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.

• Stay Calm: Practice mindfulness techniques like deep breathing to reduce anxiety.

• Follow Instructions: Listen carefully to instructions and manage your time during the test. Don’t spend too long on any single question; if you are not sure about a question, just move on and come back to that one.

• Use Breaks Wisely: Take advantage of the 10-minute break to refresh, hydrate, and prepare for the remaining sections.

A Final Word

The TOEFL is more than a test; it’s your passport to endless possibilities. If you wish to study at a top-tier university, secure a scholarship, or enhance your career, the TOEFL is a significant step. Afghan Scholars Academy’s free TOEFL preparation classes provide the perfect platform to start your journey. With dedicated support, experienced mentors, and proven strategies, you’ll be well on your way to success.

Thanks for reading this article and I cheer you up for making this far. Great things are yet to come.