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TOEIC Preparation Tips and Useful Pointers for Aspirants

Updated on 17 November, 2023

Shivangi Mishra

Shivangi Mishra

Sr. Content Editor

Before embarking on your TOEIC preparation journey, it is imperative to know a little more about the test. The TOEIC is an assessment of English communication skills at the workplace. It has Listening and Reading; and Speaking and Writing tests that evaluate intermediate to advanced skills. The Test of English for International Communication helps aspirants get employed while demonstrating their business English communication skills. 

Subject-Wise Preparation Strategy for TOEIC 

If you are wondering how to prepare for TOEIC, then there are several subject-wise strategies that you can adopt. Here is a TOEIC strategy that you can adopt for the examination subjects. 

Listening and Reading test- 

There are several TOEIC preparation tips that you can use for this section. This test helps determine effective communication with good English proficiency without any passing or failing scores. You should complete registration at least eight weeks before the suitable test date. 

You should also consider preparing for around 3-4 hours each week. You can choose TOEIC resources like the official TOEIC test preparation materials while helping you build your skills. You can also count on the TOEIC Official Learning and Preparation Course in this regard. There are several other resources available on the ETS Global website, the conducting body.  Consider taking a free TOEIC listening and practice test at yourenglishtest.com, which will help you understand your CEFR levels and proficiency description. 

Speaking and Writing Test- 

There are several options at hand if you are wondering how to prepare for the TOEIC exam’s speaking and writing section. You can take the free sample test on the ETS website for building your familiarity with this section while also reading the official examinee handbook carefully. The test is not based on any specific course but focuses on your proficiency levels. 

You should know that business knowledge is not required and neither is specialized technical or business vocabulary. You should first gain more familiarity with the format of the test along with reviewing the sample questions in the official handbook. Try to read as much as you can along with watching videos, podcasts, and television programs while speaking with others in English. 

How to Prepare for TOEIC Test 

How to study for the TOEIC? You can follow a few simple TOEIC exam tips in this regard. 

  • Assess your English language proficiency levels

You should identify your English proficiency levels and skills first. This will help you zero in on suitable preparation strategies. 

  • Use smart resources

The TOEIC Test Level Projector is a good way to evaluate your English listening and comprehension abilities. The tool only requires you to invest 15 minutes with 25 official questions. You will get your CEFR level and skill description accordingly. The TOEIC® Official Learning and Preparation Courses are also helpful for self-study online and contains 24 thematic skill-development units. 

  • Mobile learning made easy

You can also check out the Super Prepa for the TOEIC Test mobile application. It has a free version with 400 questions available for aspirants. The paid version enables 600 extra questions and real-time condition with two mock tests. This is available for both Android and iOS. 

  • Practice as much as possible

You should aim to practice extensively with mock tests and other resources. 

  • Build up your confidence levels gradually

Remember that this test does not look for business knowledge. Hence, you should grow your confidence with more practice and conversations in English. If you know the format and take sample tests, it may be enough to help you score well in the final examination. 

Syllabus for TOEIC: TOEIC Syllabus

TOEIC Test Preparation Materials 

Here are some helpful test preparation materials that you can consider using. 

  • TOEIC test preparation books. 
  • TOEIC Listening and Reading Test- Examine Handbook and Sample Tests
  • TOEIC Listening and Reading Sample Tests
  • TOEIC Official Learning and Preparation Course Online (comes with three learning modules, automated score report, interactive exercises, and a voice narration like the one you will hear on the actual testing day)
  • TOEIC Speaking and Writing Tests-Examinee Handbook
  • TOEIC Speaking and Writing Sample Tests

As you can see, good TOEIC preparation is dependent on using the right materials and other official resources to practice and learn smartly. Take mock tests as much as you can, and remember to use English as much as possible in your conversations with others. 

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FAQs

How do I prepare for the TOEIC test?

Some preparation tips include evaluating your English proficiency levels first, before identifying your strengths and weaknesses. Thereafter, start practicing thoroughly for each section along with understanding the format carefully. Take mock tests as much as possible in order to gain more confidence. 

How long does it take to prepare for the TOEIC?

According to the ETS Global recommendations, around 8-6 weeks before the testing date, you should study for at least 3-4 hours each week. There are several resources that can be used for this purpose. This is a bare minimum and varies, depending on your level of competence and overall skills. 

Is the TOEIC harder than the TOEFL?

The TOEFL is an evaluator of academic English proficiency, while the TOEIC assesses professional English skills. The TOEIC examination has a duration of two hours and evaluates the reading and listening abilities of candidates. It is generally considered easier in comparison to the TOEFL. 

Shivangi Mishra

Sr. Content Editor

She is an experienced writer and journalist who has extensively covered the education sector in India and Abroad. Now helping Indian aspirants realise their foreign education dream by providing them with relevant content and information through upGrad Abroad. Amateur traveller, loves to read Architectural Digest!

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