Familiarize yourself with the two TOEFL formats
1. Familiarize yourself with the two TOEFL formats
There are two different types of TOEFL tests. In some countries the original paper test is used. Most countries use the computer based TOEFL (CBT). Make sure you find out which test you will be taking before you start studying for the TOEFL. If your c! ountry uses the CBT you have to take this test. You cannot choose to take the paper based test. Most of the types of questions are similar, although there are a few new questions that can only be answered on a computer. The CBT uses visual stimuli and has a written portion.
2. Research TOEFL score requirements
The TOEFL is required for any non-native English student who wants to go to a post secondary school in the United States. Most people take the TOEFL in order to apply to a specific school or program. Before you begin studying, find out what the requirements are for the schools you are interested in going to. Remember that the scores for the paper based test are different than the scores for the CBT. The average minimum score required is approximately 550 (paper test) or 215 (CBT). A prestigious university such as Harvard has much higher expectations (600 and 250). Some schools will look at your scores from different sections. Many universities expect you to get at least 4 out of 6 on your essay. TOEFL scores are only valid for two years.
3. Learn academic English
TOEFL is used for a different purpose than other ESL tests. The TOEFL measures your ability to succeed in an American university or college. You don't have to know about the business world as you do in the TOEIC test. Instead, you should concentrate on studying language that you would hear on campus and terms that you would hear in the classroom. You should read textbooks, encyclopaedias, journals and research articles rather than advertisements and resumes. You won't need to know any background information about certain subjects, but it will help you to become familiar with this type of material. If you have a friend who goes to an English university, go to class with him as often as you can. Borrow his books and hang out with his friends.
ادامه مطلب
