TOEFL Test: how to prepare?

The TOEFL test is one of the most widely used English language proficiency tests in the world, and TOEFL scores are a requirement for academic degrees, exchanges abroad and even visas for travel to English-speaking countries.

What is the TOEFL?

It is a standardised test of English proficiency for all native English speaking candidates, which means that it is a test that is certified according to the results obtained.

Importantly, the TOEFL test is accepted worldwide, using American English vocabulary and grammar. The test is provided by ETS, a non-profit organisation that designs and distributes the assessments, the main ones being the TOEFL iBT and the TOEFL PBT.

By taking one of these exams you will be awarded a level of English A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2 of the CEFR according to the score you get.

Requirements to obtain it

The TOEFL test is neither pass nor fail, this means that depending on the result and the score you get, you get access to one level of the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) or another.

The CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) is responsible for the existence of learning standards in English in which the level of the candidates and the evolution of their knowledge is measured. When you take the test you will be admitted to certificates from A2 upwards, as A1 is a very basic level aimed at children’s learning.

Each part of the test is graded from 0 to 30, making a total of 120 points, as there are 4 parts. Scores below 34 points correspond to an A2 level, between 35 and 45 correspond to a B1 level of English, between 36 and 93 points corresponds to a B2 level, between 94 and 104 corresponds to a C1 level and between 115 and 120 corresponds to a C2 level.

Examination format

There are 2 types of exams, the international and the institutional. The first is the official one and is valid when you wish to obtain a residence or study visa abroad, being an indispensable requirement. In the case of the institutional one, it is a pencil and paper test, which is only valid at the national level.

There are 2 formats in which the TOEFL test can be taken:

• PBT- Paper Based: This is the traditional form and is taken on paper.
• iBT- Internet Based: This is an online test and is currently the most commonly used way to take the TOEFL test.

The test assesses 5 skills in the candidate, Reading which determines the level of reading comprehension. Listening which measures how well you understand spoken English. Speaking which assesses the candidate’s ability to express him/herself orally in English. Writing which assesses writing skills and Structure which examines grammar, sentence structure and vocabulary use.

Pre-preparation

• Practice by taking notes

During the TOEFL you listen to audio clips once and then answer the questions. You either speak or write about the topic you hear, and since there is no way to play back the audio, you need to take effective notes. The notes can be in your own language or in English, the idea is to learn how to do it in real time.

• Take practice tests

Practice tests help you to get an idea of what the test is about, what types of questions are asked and what the obstacles are. There are several ways to get practice for this, such as taking free practice tests.

• Read daily

Reading expands your vocabulary, so you understand more concepts and expand your vocabulary. Besides, you never know what new topics you will find in the test, so reading and educating yourself is very convenient.

• Listen to podcasts

There are many radio podcasts in English on the internet, so listening to native English speakers at the usual speed develops your listening comprehension. This also imitates pronunciation and will make speaking easier.

Results and certificate

You have to wait 6 days to get the result of the TOEFL test. You can check your score online with your personal identification number and candidate code.

This result is for your personal knowledge only, and after 2 weeks you will receive an official certificate by post. On the TOEFL certificate you will find your personal information and the score you obtained in each part of the test followed by a comment from the examiners.