10 Expert Tips to Break the TOEFL 100 Barrier

TOEFL Preparation Tips: When pursuing your study-abroad dreams, there are several important factors to consider. One key element of your application portfolio, especially for those aiming to study in English-speaking countries, is an English-language assessment. This is where the TOEFL program plays a pivotal role in helping you stand out with confidence.
The TOEFL iBT test, administered by ETS, evaluates your English-language proficiency, ensuring you're well-prepared for the academic English used in university classrooms.
Whether you’re just starting to explore potential universities or you're already working on your application portfolio, the TOEFL iBT test offers a range of student-friendly features and diverse preparation options, making your testing experience as smooth as possible.
Recognized by over 12,500 universities across more than 160 countries, the TOEFL iBT test is the shortest and most widely accepted English language exam. It offers unique advantages, including recognition for Canada's Student Direct Stream (SDS) Program, which helps accelerate your study journey to Canada.
What makes TOEFL truly stand out is its fairness and speed. With quick result delivery, TOEFL ensures you can plan your study-abroad path with confidence. Plus, it provides immediate predictive scores for the listening and reading sections, allowing you to gauge your performance right after taking the test.
Speaking to The Times of India, Sachin Jain, Country Manager, ETS India and South Asia shared, "In today's globalized education landscape, mastering the TOEFL exam is not just about language proficiency, it's about unlocking a host of opportunities with the world’s shortest and most widely accepted English-language test. TOEFL is a gateway to academic excellence and global career prospects across 160 countries, where over 12500 institutions accept the test. TOEFL stands out for its fairness and quick results, supporting test takers in every step of their journey”.
Below are some TOEFL preparation strategies to help students achieve success in the test and enhance their preparation for overseas education.
• Understand the format: No matter what your level of English proficiency, it is helpful to understand the format of the exam before test day. Mock tests and official preparation material is useful to have this knowledge.
• Set a TOEFL score goal: Having a specific goal and understanding your skill levels can effectively help to identify your strengths and weaknesses, and craft the best TOEFL preparation strategy for you. You should aim for a target score that meets the requirements of the academic institution(s) to which you are applying.
• Give yourself enough time to prepare: A minimum 2-month time period is recommended for TOEFL preparation, but if you want to improve your English skills by starting with the basics, you may want to set aside 3 to 6 months to develop a detailed plan and prepare accordingly.
• Choose an early exam date: Choose a test date that is 6–10 weeks before the application deadline of your preferred programs. This would allow you enough time to retake the test if necessary.
• Practice consistently: Set aside some time every 2 weeks, once a week, or even more frequently, to complete practise questions and/or practice tests. This will assist you in becoming accustomed to the testing experience as well as improving your technique and competence.
• Do not skip any questions: There are no negative markings on this test. Avoid skipping any questions and instead focus on selecting the best response option or using the process of elimination to identify the correct response. If you finish early, you can always go back and review your answers.
• Build a Vocabulary Toolkit: Enhance your vocabulary through daily reading, flashcards, and vocabulary-building apps. A rich vocabulary is your asset in the reading and listening sections.
• Listening Practice: Regularly listen to English audio materials like podcasts, news broadcasts, and interviews. This will improve your listening comprehension skills.
• Speaking Exercises: Engage in conversations with native English speakers or practice speaking English regularly with a language partner. This will boost your confidence and fluency in the speaking section.
• Simulate Test Conditions: Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions to mimic the actual test experience. This will help you manage your time effectively on test day and reduce anxiety.
To prepare better for TOEFL iBT, check out the variety of resources available on the TOEFL website. These resources include study materials, guidance for each section of the exam, recommended books for TOEFL preparation and online study modules specifically designed for the TOEFL iBT.