When you begin your preparation for the TOEFL, you will come across several prep courses, mock tests, and vocabulary lessons-you name it.
However, candidates must prepare with appropriate resources for an exam like TOEFL. These resources need to be authentic and valuable for your TOEFL preparation.
Searching for reliable websites and apps with useful material is a long and tiring task, but don’t panic!
In this article, we have shortlisted a few TOEFL preparation websites, and we will discuss how these can be used effectively for your upcoming TOEFL exam.
What is the TOEFL Exam?
The Test of English as a Foreign Language, widely known as TOEFL, is an English language proficiency test that assesses your English proficiency. Apart from checking your ability to speak English, it also assesses one’s understanding.
TOEFL assesses four primary skills: reading, listening, writing, and speaking.
Due to technological advancement, most candidates prefer to go for TOEFL iBT (internet-based test), which is held online, while several test-takers give Paper-based TOEFL.
This entirely depends on which country/state you live in, as many countries cannot provide access to TOEFL iBT.
- You can easily find more information about TOEFL here.
Why Choose Online Resources to Prepare for Your TOEFL Exam?
Gone are the days when students fill up their notebooks and spend hours in libraries. With the advancement in technology, many students turn towards online learning methods.
Due to the increasing demand, several TOEFL prep courses are being established to help the students.
The best thing about learning online is the flexibility that comes with it. You can learn at your own pace- that also means you can create a schedule suited to your preferences.
Online resources also allow you to meet experienced teachers who are also TOEFL ex-examiners and are highly trained in their field.
Besides that, you also get access to a supportive community established by mentors and fellow test-takers.
Most of the material in online prep courses is up-to-date and authentic, meaning that there is no unnecessary information in these resources.
Alongside this, you can earn lifetime access to several courses, which can help you in the long run.
What Should You Look For In TOEFL Online Resources?
To help you pick and choose the best resources, we’ve put together a small checklist of things you need to look for.
1. Ample TOEFL Practice Tests
Several websites offer both free and paid mock tests for the candidates. A mock test is designed the same way as the actual exam, and you are required to give it within the same time limit, using the same format.
Moreover, the mentors check the tests according to the criteria set by the examiners and ETS. Since many teachers are ex-TOEFL examiners, they have better insight into the scoring criteria.
Just by doing constant practice, you won’t be able to succeed.
Getting feedback from professionals is necessary, as it helps you give insight into your improvements and weaknesses. With the help of these practice tests, you will be able to keep a track of your progress.
2. Explanatory Videos
This resource is widely found in all prep courses. Be it a private video course or a YouTube channel- you name it. Believe it or not, video lessons are beneficial for all the candidates.
The mentors make sure that the candidates understand the topic clearly, which is one reason behind the comprehensiveness of the videos.
You will often come across videos and notice how almost all of them are short and simple. These bite-sized lessons are designed carefully. Since the lecture is short, one or two topics are usually covered in one video.
Apart from that, most of the teachers are native speakers. This is an additional benefit since candidates can learn the pronunciation of certain words. In turn, this will help you in your speaking and listening sections.
Therefore, at the end of the day, you would be skilled in not just vocabulary but also fluency.
3. Customized TOEFL Study Plans
Having an organized study schedule makes a thousand things better. With the help of a proper schedule, you will be able to give equal time to practicing for your TOEFL and relaxing or engaging in a beneficial hobby.
However, it must be noted that many websites do not offer this, so you might have to create one for yourself.
A customized study plan is designed according to your daily schedule and needs. It doesn’t matter whether you tend to have a busier day or are primarily free.
A comprehensive study plan covers everything from your online classes to your meetings and get-togethers. Besides this, you can also add your mock test dates, live class schedule, etc.
4. Numerous TOEFL Vocabulary Flashcards
To understand TOEFL and its aspects, you first need a firm grip on vocabulary and grammar. These two are the fundamental concepts of English, and if your vocabulary is not strong, you won’t be able to reach your target score.
Vocabulary is assessed in every TOEFL section, be it writing or speaking.
But don’t fret! TOEFL preparation websites aren’t complete without any vocabulary or grammar resources.
While many blogs dedicate a plethora of resources to vocabulary, several opt to keep it short and simple with an EBook or flashcard. Some amp it up by creating a vocabulary video course covering all kinds of grammar and vocabulary aspects.
4 Best Online Resources for TOEFL Preparation
Below we have shortlisted some TOEFL preparation websites. All the resources found on these websites are authentic and secure. While many offer free resources, several blogs have included paid resources for extra practice.
Regardless of the pricing, all the resources will undoubtedly help you achieve your target score. We can confidently say that because these websites worked wonders for numerous TOEFL test-takers just like you.
1. NoteFull
NoteFull is a website or online resource established by Joseph Miranda, a highly qualified TOEFL mentor. He established this platform with the aim to make TOEFL preparation easier and more engaging.
Therefore, he created his own prep course with several interesting activities to keep you on track.
Key features of his website include online classes, a TOEFL ultra-fast course, and TOEFL critical basics course.
Joseph has started online classes for his students. Each month, Joseph covers a section of TOEFL in his online sessions. The classes are beginner-friendly and easily accessible after the payment.
The sessions are divided into three weeks, and each week covers a set of topics related to that section. These bite-sized lessons with immense practice make it easier to understand the section and its tasks.
The TOEFL Ultra Fast course, a 16-hour intensive course, is a must for those who have busier schedules and are unable to make enough time for practice.
With the help of this course, you will be able to cover all the basic aspects of each section, from vocabulary to fluency.
Joseph has included a mini mock test and a detailed explanation of scoring specifics at the end of each session. Therefore, candidates can assess themselves quickly.
Furthermore, the TOEFL Critical Basics Course is a must for beginners. If you are new to TOEFL, this course is for you.
It explains all the basic aspects of the TOEFL, from test format to preparation strategies. The tips and tricks are put to use by taking the mini mock test.
It also includes bonus lessons where the mentors give advice on managing the time and stress that comes with the TOEFL preparation. The best part? This course is 100% free!
2. Test Resources by Michael Goodine
Test Resources was created by Michael Goodine, another highly experienced TOEFL teacher. He has also received training from ETS, the TOEFL testing service. That is enough to support the fact that he is quite qualified in his field.
He has written several books on TOEFL and aims to help struggling candidates achieve their target test scores. Some key features of his website include master guides, speaking evaluation, etc.
Michael has compiled master guides on each section of the TOEFL exam. These master guides are 100% free and accessible easily on his website.
Each guide covers the basic aspects like test format and preparation strategies, while advanced topics include respective aspects of that section. It is a comprehensive guide explaining the tasks, scoring procedure, sample questions, sample answers, and much more. Added perks also include guides on managing time, stress, frequent topics, etc.
3. Good Luck TOEFL
Good Luck TOEFL is a global TOEFL learning platform where you will meet several mentors and a supportive community of fellow test-takers.
Good Luck TOEFL aims to provide candidates with a practical and pragmatic study schedule that incorporates their daily routine. It is one of the best TOEFL preparation websites with comprehensive and easy-to-understand material, so don’t be worried if you are a beginner.
Good Luck TOEFL has created an ultimate video course, which will undoubtedly help you in your TOEFL preparation. It contains many videos recorded by different mentors.
The lessons are divided into three levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. The beginner level covers the basic aspects, for instance, test format, scoring criteria, etc.
However, as you move onto the intermediate and advanced level, mentors have covered section-related topics in detail.
Besides this, you will also come across TOEFL consultation videos, where the mentors guide you regarding TOEFL, but for free!
4. TST Prep
TST Prep was established by Josh MacPherson and a team of highly qualified TOEFL teachers. This platform wouldn’t be complete without teachers and fellow candidates’ interactive and supportive community. Josh aims to help the struggling candidates by providing authentic material for their learning.
Josh has made a fantastic effort by creating a TOEFL emergency course. This is a perfect course for candidates who have busier schedules and cannot make time for their practice.
The course is covered via video lectures, which are 5 hours long and cover fundamental aspects of the TOEFL exam.
You also get unlimited support from the mentors, downloadable PDFs, vocabulary cheat sheets, sample questions, and much more.
Final Thoughts
You might wonder, which course works best for me? It entirely depends on you. While many prefer strict schedules, you might want to go at your own pace.
Instead of independent learning or self-studying, you might feel you’re more suited for personal tuition.
Once you have figured out your studying style, you’re good to go! However, certain things must be kept in mind, independent of whatever course you choose.
Firstly, do not stress yourself over long study sessions. Bite-sized lessons work better as you can remember smaller amounts of information.
Secondly, always go for authentic and reliable resources.
Moreover, reading reviews of fellow TOEFL test-takers also gives an insight into how that certain website works.
Additionally, always remember that there is no pressure to buy evaluation services if they are out of your budget.
