TOEFL iBT Experience: Test Day, Challenges, and Preparation Tips

1. Introduction

   • This is my personal experience taking the TOEFL iBT.

   • TOEFL iBT is an official English proficiency test, required for studying abroad.

   • Indonesians applying for the LPDP scholarship must take this test, with a minimum score of 80 for studying abroad and 67 for studying in Indonesia.

   • If you plan to study in Indonesia, TOEFL ITP is a cheaper alternative.

2. Why TOEFL iBT Instead of IELTS?

   • I’m more familiar with the American accent than the British accent.

   • I had previously taken the TOEFL PBT, but TOEFL iBT differs significantly in format and scoring.

   • TOEFL iBT does not have a grammar-based "Structure" section, which I preferred.

3. Test Registration

   • Register on the official ETS website by creating an account.

   • Choose your test date and location. Since my city (Solo) had no test center, I took the test in Semarang.

   • Payment is required via credit card or voucher (I paid by credit card).

   • The test fee was around 2,600,000 Rupiahs.

4. Test Day Experience

   • Arrive at least 30 minutes before the test starts (8:00 AM).

   • I arrived 45 minutes early and waited in my car until 7:30 AM.

   • Surprisingly, I was the only participant at my test center.

   • My photo was taken, and my ID and registration form were checked.

   • The test started earlier since I was the only one.

5. Test Format and My Experience

   • Reading Section

     • I got the long format (4 passages, 650–800 words each).

     • Total time: 80 minutes (~20 minutes per passage).

     • You can navigate between questions.

     • I finished on time but didn’t have time to review my answers.

   • Listening Section

     • Since I had the long Reading section, I got the short Listening test.

     • 2 sets, each containing 1 conversation, 1 lecture, and 1 discussion.

     • Fixed timing: 10 minutes per set (20 minutes total).

     • Questions must be answered immediately; no going back.

     • My concentration suffered due to exhaustion from the Reading section.

   • Break Time (10 minutes)

     • Highly recommended to refresh, drink water, or use the restroom.

   • Speaking Section

     • 6 tasks:

       1. Personal Experience (15 sec prep, 45 sec response).

       2. Preference (15 sec prep, 45 sec response).

       3. Report on a passage + lecture (45 sec reading, 30 sec prep, 60 sec response).

       4. Explain an example (same as Task 3 format).

       5. Summarize a conversation and suggest a solution (20 sec prep, 60 sec response).

       6. Summarize a lecture (20 sec prep, 60 sec response).

     • I struggled with time management and missing key points.

   • Writing Section

     • Integrated Essay: Summarize a reading passage and lecture. (20 minutes, 150–225 words).

     • Independent Essay: Write an opinion-based essay. (30 minutes, 300–350 words).

     • This was my best section; I completed both essays comfortably.

6. Receiving My Score

   • Results were available 10 days later.

   • My Listening and Speaking scores were low, but Reading and Writing helped balance my final score.

   • I was relieved to score above 80, though not fully satisfied.

7. Preparation & Study Tips

   • Study Duration: I had only 3 weeks to prepare.

   • Resources Used: Barron’s TOEFL iBT book (recommended but pricey at 500,000 Rupiahs).

   Skills Development:

   • Reading: Read English news, articles, encyclopedias (Wikipedia is helpful).

   • Listening: Listen to music (with lyrics), watch movies with English subtitles, or follow TED Talks.

   • Speaking: Practice speaking aloud, join international events, or attend English courses.

   • Writing: Post in English on social media, start a blog, or write daily.

8. Final Thoughts

   • Consistent practice is key—progress takes time and effort.

   • If you're taking the TOEFL iBT or any English proficiency test, prepare well and good luck!

Cheers, mate! 🚀

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