bySayantani Barman Study Abroad Expert
Embarking on the journey to achieve proficiency in English is a significant milestone for many individuals, especially those aspiring to study in an English-speaking environment. TOEFL iBT® is a widely recognized and accepted assessment of English language proficiency for non-native English speakers. If you're preparing to take the TOEFL, you may have heard about the enhanced TOEFL iBT® test, which is designed to provide a more accurate evaluation of your English language skills.
ETS introduced this enhanced version to provide a more precise assessment of a test taker's language skills, particularly in academic settings. It incorporates innovative changes that focus on enhancing test security, authenticity, and overall test experience. The TOEFL format has four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking and Writing and is scheduled for just under 2 hours to complete. You should plan for 2.5 hours, allowing 30 minutes for check in.
Due to its widespread acceptance in 12500+ colleges across 160 countries, the enhanced TOEFL iBT remains an important test for students applying for abroad education. The test has 100% recognition in countries like the United States, Canada, Ireland, the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Australia. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into everything you need to know about the enhanced TOEFL iBT® test to help you succeed in your academic endeavors.
Updated TOEFL Exam Pattern
The TOEFL iBT test introduces substantial changes, designed to increase efficiency and shorten the testing duration. The test now takes less than two hours to complete from previously three hours.
The new TOEFL format now includes reduced questions in the TOEFL Reading section and no un scored questions. The Reading section will now comprise 20 questions, to be completed in an estimated duration of 35 minutes. Similarly, the TOEFL Listening section will feature 28 questions, with an allocated time of 36 minutes for completion. The Speaking segment has been revised to four tasks, requiring approximately 16 minutes, while the Writing section demands the completion of two tasks within an estimated 29 minutes.
TOEFL Scoring and Results
The enhanced TOEFL iBT score offers a reporting system that delivers personalized feedback and performance insights that help to refine study strategies and reach academic aspirations. It includes a detailed proficiency evaluation for each test section, pinpointing areas that may need further attention. You'll also gain insights into your performance on Reading and Listening sections, identifying specific question types where you excel and areas for improvement.
Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis of your TOEFL Speaking and Writing abilities is provided, covering aspects such as language usage, grammar, mechanics, and more. To facilitate your improvement, sample high-scoring Speaking and Writing responses, complete with explanations, are made available for practice and enhancement.
Accepted for Direct Stream in Canada
Aside from its widespread acceptance across countries and adding to its 100% acceptance in Canada, TOEFL iBT scores are accepted for Student Direct Stream (SDS) in Canada. Through this stream, the study permit visa to Canada is expedited by 20 days. This benefits Indian students as the approval rate of Indian students in SDS streams is three times higher than that of visa streams. India has accounted for 96% of SDS applications since 2019 and ever since the pandemic, Canadian colleges account for three out of four SDS applications.
Incentives For Indian Test takers:
The updates to the TOEFL iBT test extend beyond the assessment pattern and style of questions. ETS offers a discount for test takers who choose to take both the TOEFL iBT and GRE General Test. This discount provides some cost savings compared to registering for the tests separately. Additionally, a localised payment option in Indian Rupees (INR) is also available. A dedicated customer service center for Indian test takers is available 12 hours a day, 7 days a week, to provide candidates with test registration support.
The TOEFL Go! Application
The newly launched TOEFL Go! app transforms test preparation for TOEFL iBT candidates. It offers free digital practice and AI-powered scoring for Reading, Listening, Speaking and TOEFL Writing sections. With coaching and sample responses, it enhances test-takers' skills and provides a user-friendly platform for effective preparation. This allows users to have a portable and accessible tutor to help prepare for the test.
Here’s How Indian Test Takers can maximize output in enhanced TOEFL iBT test
ETS offers a wide range of official, free resources to assist with TOEFL iBT preparation. One such resource is the comprehensive 6-week course called "TOEFL Test Preparation: The Insider's Guide," which includes instructional videos, quizzes, discussion boards, and expert tips. Additionally, test takers can benefit from the TOEFL iBT Free Practice Test, which provides authentic past test questions, sample responses, and complementary practice sets. For those seeking more in-depth preparation, ETS also provides paid resources. The Official TOEFL iBT Prep Course is a self-paced program designed to enhance communication skills in an academic environment. For further practice and study, the Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT Test is available in both eBook and paperback formats. This comprehensive guide includes four full-length practice tests, valuable tips, and hundreds of sample questions for all four test sections.
In addition to the resources offered by ETS, the preparation buck stops with the candidate. Candidates must read newspapers, magazines, and online articles to become proficient in the reading segment. To increase reading comprehension, concentrate on academic subjects and on summarizing materials. Candidates can practice their listening skills by listening to English podcasts on a variety of themes. To increase focus and multitasking skills, make notes on important concepts and practice summarizing material. Engage in practice dialogues on personal interests to hone pronunciation, fluency, and thought organization in speaking. Record and review responses. To bolster writing and improve efficiency in the section, students can write about topics that interest them such as the importance of cricket in Indian culture. Students need to immerse themselves in related literature to expand vocabulary and practice timed essay writing to effectively convey ideas.
With the aid of these strategic tips and resources, students can excel on the enhanced TOEFL iBT test and accomplish their academic aspirations on an international scale. Success on the TOEFL iBT exam not only unlocks educational opportunities but also paves the way for international career prospects, underscoring the importance of strategic preparation and dedication. The updates to the TOEFL iBT test seek to create an optimal experience, thus facilitating their career goals. As they embrace these tools, students are better equipped to conquer the TOEFL and pursue their dreams with confidence.
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