My TOEFL iBT Exam Experience: Preparation, Test Day, and Tips

1. Introduction

• This is my second video sharing my experience with the TOEFL iBT exam.

• I’ll cover my study timeline, application process, test day experience, and resources used.

2. Life Update

• Currently reading Viam Saes Two Lives and enjoying it.

• Using a price tag as a bookmark (a fun personal detail).

3. TOEFL iBT New Format (Since July 26, 2023)

• Duration reduced from 3 hours to 2 hours.

• Minor changes in the Writing and Listening sections.

4. My Application Timeline

• Applied on August 11, 2023.

• Paid approximately ₹18,000 (including taxes).

• Booked a morning slot (10:00 AM–12:00 PM) on September 9, 2023.

5. Why I Took TOEFL iBT

• Initially planned to pursue a Master’s in Canada.

• Shortlisted universities and included them in the TOEFL application.

• Later changed my study destination but continued with TOEFL for the same course.

6. Test Day Experience

• Arrived at the test center 1 hour early to avoid delays.

• Carried:

  • Original passport.

  • Printed application confirmation (optional but recommended).

• Process at the center:

  • Filled out a form and signed it.

  • Took a photo (without glasses) for the scorecard.

  • Stored belongings in provided compartments.

• Test setup:

  • Individual computer cabin with a PC, keyboard, mouse, monitor, headset, and sheets of paper with a pencil.

7. TOEFL iBT Exam Format

• Reading: 2 academic passages with 10 MCQs each.

• Listening: 5 passages (3 academic lectures, 2 campus conversations).

• Speaking: 4 tasks (speaking into a microphone).

• Writing: 2 tasks (Integrated Writing and Academic Discussion).

8. Preparation Timeline

• Started preparing in July 2023.

• Booked the exam slot in September after gaining confidence.

• Felt 2 months of preparation was excessive for an English proficiency test.

9. Tips for Each Section

Reading

• Skim the passage first to understand the theme.

• Practice using online resources and YouTube playlists.

Listening

• Take brief, legible notes during the audio.

• Use abbreviations to save time.

• Practice with online listening resources.

Speaking

• Use templates for each of the 4 tasks.

• Practice speaking into a microphone.

• Develop 2–3 templates and memorize them for the test.

Writing

• Practice typing to improve speed.

• Use TOEFL’s official website for Academic Discussion practice (28 questions available).

• Focus on Integrated Writing and Academic Discussion tasks.

10. Speaking Section Template

• Task 1: Opinion-based question (use common phrases and structures).

• Task 2: Campus announcement or change (follow the provided template).

• Task 3: Academic concept or professor’s explanation (use the template).

• Task 4: Lecture summary (focus on two key points or effects).

11. Resources Used

• Book: Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT Test, 6th Edition (old format but useful).

  • Includes an access code for digital resources (audio clips for Listening practice).

• Online: YouTube playlists and TOEFL’s official website for practice questions.

12. Final Tips

• Practice consistently for all sections.

• Use templates for Speaking and Writing.

• Arrive early on test day and carry necessary documents.

13. Conclusion

• Shared my TOEFL journey and tips to help others.

• Encouraged viewers to ask questions in the comments or via email.

• Thanked viewers for their support on my previous video.

Shared by Shravani