TOEFL
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) tests your ability to understand Standard North American English. The TOEFL is written and administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and used by North American colleges and graduate schools to evaluate the level of English-language proficiency of international student applicants. Since its inception in 1964, the TOELF test has been taken by over 20 million students.
FormatsThe main format for testing is the IBT or Internet-Based testing, which was introduced in 2005 to replace the CBT (Computer-Based testing). The CBT was officially retired in September of 2006 and so the main two formats that are now used are IBT and PBT (Paper-Based Testing). The PBT however is rarely used and the most common format is the IBT.
The IBT format has been rolled out over a series of phases, with the USA, Canada, France, Germany and Italy ths first to get the new format and then the rest of the world was moved over in 2006. Demand for the TOEFL IBT test is often very high and it is advisable to book a few months in advance to make sure you get the date you want.
The IBT consists of a 4 hour test in 4 sections which covers:
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) tests your ability to understand Standard North American English. The TOEFL is written and administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and used by North American colleges and graduate schools to evaluate the level of English-language proficiency of international student applicants. Since its inception in 1964, the TOELF test has been taken by over 20 million students.
FormatsThe main format for testing is the IBT or Internet-Based testing, which was introduced in 2005 to replace the CBT (Computer-Based testing). The CBT was officially retired in September of 2006 and so the main two formats that are now used are IBT and PBT (Paper-Based Testing). The PBT however is rarely used and the most common format is the IBT.
The IBT format has been rolled out over a series of phases, with the USA, Canada, France, Germany and Italy ths first to get the new format and then the rest of the world was moved over in 2006. Demand for the TOEFL IBT test is often very high and it is advisable to book a few months in advance to make sure you get the date you want.
The IBT consists of a 4 hour test in 4 sections which covers:
- Reading - students are given a reading passage and then posed questions about the content they have just read
- Listening - students are given a passage to listen to and then posed questions about the content
- Speaking - new for the IBT, the speaking section asks students to read passages and answer questions on a variety of subjects.
- Writing - students are given a passage and then asked to write a passage in response to the text.
Taking the TestIf you would like information on taking the TOEFL, please visit the TOEFL website at http://www.TOEFL.org as the cost and type of test you need to take will vary depending on your country. You can also register online and book your test in via this website so please visit here for more information about that.
If you need courses and programs to help you prepare for the TOEFL test, Kaplan provide access to courses and materials that can assist you.
TOEFL Test Tips
- Review key concepts. Do not frantically try to memorize new material.
- Know the exam location precisely - how long it takes to get there, where to park, the building and room, where you can eat during the break and assure returning in time, etc. A late arrival can lead to panic and unnerve you for a portion of the test.
- Try to relax the evening before the test. Attempting to learn anything new may end up confusing what you already know. If you feel it necessary to study, make this a light review.
- Get a good night's rest.Wake up early enough that you don't have to rush, have time to eat breakfast, and can get to the test center a few minutes early.
- Wear whatever you feel most comfortable studying or testing in. Layers are a good idea - you never know how hot or cold the room might be.
- Finally, do the best you can, keeping in mind that acceptance into a North American school depends on other factors in addition to your TOEFL score. You want to put together the best package deal as possible
