There is more to TOEFL Test Preparation than just Academic Training

Here are some really helpful tips that will go a long way in making your preparation for the TOEFL easy and effective. Whether you plan on preparing for the TOEFL on your own or by joining a training institute do not ignore these tips.

Know the Format of the Test first

This works just the way anything else works. For instance, you are the part of your school’s soccer team and you have to play the finals on unexplored territory, say, on the ground of the rival team’s school. What is the first thing that you will need to know and be prepared for? Of course, it is the game but isn’t that something you have been preparing for years? Well, in this case, the first thing that you’ll need to know thoroughly will be the new play ground.

Similarly, before you start preparing for the real test, get familiar with the exam format and pattern first. Check if the centre where you’re planning to take the test offers the Internet based exam, iBT, or the paper based version, PBT. At present, most countries/centres offer iBT but certain countries/centres offer the PBT also. Check out the country where you’re planning to take the test. It can be really unsettling to prepare for the PBT only to find out that the test is not administered in you country nor in its vicinity!!

 Check the TOEFL Score requirements in the colleges/universities you want to apply to.

TOEFL is an application requirement for all students whose native language is not English. Contrary to common myth that only the US universities require this score, most universities round the world ask applicants for “proof of language proficiency” by submitting a TOEFL or IELTS score. In many universities, it is just a formality and you simply need to have it done with fairly decent scores. However, there are certain colleges that value a high score, especially when you’re applying for subjects that require more interaction in English or more than usual communication or writing skills. Do a bit of research and be sure that you get the score that the college or university of your choice will require you to secure.

The validity for your scores is two years. Each section carries equal marks- 30 points – and schools even stipulate what their minimum requirement in each section is. Check which sections are more preferable for the college of your choice and give extra time preparing for those sections. For instance, many journalism based courses require you to write splendidly well and thus, such colleges expect you to score your best in the writing skills section.

Get Preparatory Help from trainers and wherever possible

There are numerous TOEFL institutes in Dubai scattered in different locations and so it will not be a task finding one close to where you are based. But always zero down on a place that focuses on your performance and works hard to make you do your best. Select judiciously. Exercise the choice intelligently and only go for the best even if that involves commuting a bit.

Once you join the preparatory classes, participate diligently in the preparation process to be ready to face the test well. At the same time prepare on your own.  In the process you may be faced with doubts and problems. Do not hesitate to share your learning issues with your trainer. It is best to discuss your doubts and get instant help from this quarter. Read all kinds or literature available to you apart from the books that you have bought or the ones that your TOEFL coaching class has provided you with. In short, widen the platform of interaction with the test and seek whatever help and assistance you need from good sources.

Prepare each of the Sections Well

Give specific time to each of the sections separately. Be confident and practice well. Make sure you don’t skip preparing any of the sections even if you find them easy. You have been delivering speeches at school; that’s great but don’t stop preparing for the speaking section just because you have been doing well in it. Again, if you have been a regular contributor of your school/college magazine or have always got A+ in composition, it is not reason enough for you to be over confident. Instead keep preparing as this will help you secure the best. The best way to prepare is to keep taking mock tests from time to time. With constant tests, you’ll build up your speed and accuracy and this will ensure a satisfying outcome.