If you’re a student planning to study or work abroad in countries like the UK, US, Canada, Australia, clearing the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is often a crucial step. These exams test your proficiency in English across all four major skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. While these tests may seem challenging when it comes to securing a good score, the right preparation strategy can make all the difference. We will help you with five effective tips and tricks to help you ace the IELTS or TOEFL examination. But before moving forward let’s also take a look at what IELTS Exam and TOEFL Exams are all about.
What is IELTS Exam?
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Examination is a standard test that is majorly used to check English language proficiency. This test is compulsory for people that wish to pursue their studies in a foreign place, work abroad or migrate to English speaking countries like UK, Canada, USA, New Zealand, Australia and many more countries. According to sources, it is said that over 30 million tests have been taken since its inception in the 1980’s and over 4 million people take this test every year. This test is globally recognized and it consists of two models: IELTS General Training and IELTS Academic. The fees for taking this test in range costs around 18K (INR) and they apply to both modules whether the test is taken on paper or online. The results of this test is valid for two years. It focuses on four main skills that include Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
What is TOEFL Exam?
As IELTS test, The TOEFL (Test of English As a Foreign Language) too is a standardized test designed to assess the English language skills of learning, reading, speaking and writing of non-native speakers. It costs INR, 16,900 in India for students to take this exam. This test takes about for hours to complete and is marked on a score range from 0 to 120. An average score for undergraduate programs is 84 and for graduate programs is 88. Taken in admissions in renowned universities requires a good score between 100 – 120. It is accepted by over 12,500 colleges and is governed by the Educational Testing Service.
5 Ways To Ace This Exam:
1) Develop A Study Plan Or Get Familiar with the Test Format: One crucial step is to be familiar with the steps of the tests. Be it IELTS/TOEFL Examination it is important to understand the structure of these tests. Remember that both these examinations consists of reading, writing, learning and reading. Take time to understand the timing, questions and scoring patterns. Once you know what is expected while giving these exams, develop a study plan. Focus on parts that may seem difficult like writing or reading. Sometimes difficult words can be a problem especially if you do not understand their pronunciation, where to stop while coming across punctuations and more!
2) Expand your Vocabulary: One way to expand your vocabulary is to read more be it articles, editorials or novels. These help you come across phrases or words that you probably are hearing for the first time. If you are not familiar with a word always look it up on the internet or use a physical or online dictionary and find its meaning. See how the word is used in that statement, read it out aloud and try making new sentences with the use of the word. The Oxford English Dictionary contains approximately 273,000 headwords, with 171,476 in current use and yet even today new words are originated. For example sometimes a popular trend on social media too can lead you to describe a new vocabulary like the 2024 word of the year “brain rot”. A strong vocabulary helps in areas especially while reading writing and speaking. Always be on a hunt for new words and expand your vocabulary. The key to pass any examination for English testings is not just being familiar with a word but also being able to use it confidently in a context.
3) Take Practice Tests: Consistent practice is the key to success. Even a famous artist is known for his work because he/she didn’t stop practicing. They practiced on their tones, song script, tune and more. Similarly, for a student who wants to pursue a prominent field of study and wants to get in their dream university they need to practice. And practice not only because you need good results but because it helps you understand what can be expected, helps you manage your time better and identifies your strengths and weaknesses. For an English language test, practicing using English audios, watching the news, reading books helps better train with understanding writing, the language itself, accents and speech patterns. Resources like TED talks or American or British shows that you may watch on Netflix or any other platform will help you familiarize with different accents and wordings. After listening, try summarizing the audio out loud. This reinforces listening and speaking together.
4) Set a score limit for yourself: The best scores range from 100 – 120 while applying to top institutes like Harvard, Stanford, MIT and other renowned institutes in foreign countries. So it is important to set a target score based on the university or job you’re aiming for. Understand the scores needed for different sections. Try to ace and get maximum scores that you are confident in acing like maybe you find yourself good while reading in English language. While taking mock tests and practice papers evaluate them, check your score and then set targets to go above those. Do not forget to keep the time in mind, start preparations a month or more in advance. If you start last minute preps and set target and expect great results you may not be satisfied with your score or may want to retake the exam. By regularly checking your progress against your target, you’ll stay focused and motivated. Adjust your study plan based on where you’re falling short and don’t just aim for the minimum score, challenge yourself to exceed it!
5) Speak with Confidence and express yourself: The Speaking section can be one of the most nerve-racking aspects of the IELTS or TOEFL exams, but keep in mind that you are not being graded based on your accent. Speak clearly, confidently, and logically. Concentrate on common speaking themes such as your hobbies, daily routines, travel experiences, and global issues like the environment. To order your thoughts easily, use basic linking words and phrases such as “firstly,” “in my opinion,” or “for example”. A wonderful technique to improve is to videotape yourself and then assess your fluency, grammar, and pronunciation. You can also practice speaking with a buddy, an instructor, or in front of a mirror.
Acing the IELTS or TOEFL is all about preparation, practice, and a positive mindset. With a clear plan, consistent effort, and confidence in your communication skills, you’ll be well on your way to getting the score you need.
