How to Prepare For TOEFL In 15 Days With Good English Skills?

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Updated on, Feb 26, 2025

byVeda Burman Study Abroad Content Specialist

Preparing for the TOEFL iBT in just two weeks is possible with focused study and a strategic plan. This 15-day guide, specifically tailored for students with intermediate to advanced English skills, outlines essential steps, resources, and practical tips to help you maximize your score in each section of the test.


Days 1-2: Understand the Test format and structure

The TOEFL iBT includes four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing, each scored out of 30 points, adding up to a total score of 120. Get familiar with each section’s structure, question types, and time limits. This knowledge will help you manage your time more effectively during the test.

  • Research the minimum TOEFL score required by your target programs.
  • Knowing your target score will help keep you motivated and on track.

Days 3-5: Build Your Foundation with Reading and Listening Practice

Focus on ETS official reading resources using authentic TOEFL reading passages to improve comprehension.

  • Set a timer for 17 minutes per passage and aim to complete 3-4 passages each day.
  • After each passage, write down the main points. This will sharpen your ability to quickly identify key information and main arguments.

ETS resources also offer listening exercises with passages like those on the test. Practice with the TOEFL TestReady to prepare better.

  • Note important points and supporting details as you listen.
  • Effective note-taking will help you remember information when answering questions.

Days 6-8: Practice Speaking with Feedback

TOEFL’s speaking section requires quick thinking and structured responses. Familiarize yourself with TOEFL speaking prompts through the TOEFL TestReady and sample responses available in the TOEFL Beginner’s Guide.

  • TOEFL TestReady provides personalized feedback on your performance.
  • You can record and review your performance timely to track improvement.
  • Analyzing your recordings will help you refine pronunciation, structure, and timing.
  • Practicing with someone who can give constructive feedback, even for a few sessions, can significantly improve clarity, coherence, and confidence in your speaking skills.

Days 9-11: Strengthen Your Writing

Practice both the writing tasks with the TOEFL TestReady and sample responses available in the TOEFL Beginner’s Guide. Review ETS’s sample responses for each writing task to understand what high-scoring answers look like. Focus on clarity, coherence, and appropriate vocabulary usage.

  • Integrated Task: Summarize and compare information from a reading and a listening passage. Practice structuring your response clearly with an introduction, body, and conclusion.
  • Independent Task: Practice opinion-based writing with clear arguments and examples. Aim to finish each task within the time limits (20 minutes for Integrated, 30 minutes for Independent).

Days 12-13: Take Full-Length Practice Tests and Review

Use TOEFL iBT practice tests. Take at least one full-length practice test using ETS resources like TOEFL TestReady, TOEFL Beginner’s Guide, and TOEFL Sampler. This will help you build stamina and assess your readiness.

  • Review incorrect answers and weak areas. If you’re short on time, focus on improving in those specific sections or question types.
  • Pay special attention to timing, especially in the Reading and Listening sections.
  • Strategize ways to manage time more efficiently, such as spending less time on easier questions to allow for tougher ones.

Days 14-15: Final Touch-Ups and Prepare for Test Day

Don’t forget to review vocabulary and grammar essentials before the test day. Go over academic vocabulary and review any grammar rules that might help you avoid common errors. Having a strong vocabulary can improve your score across all sections.

  • Use TOEFL TestReady and other ETS resources to revisit any last-minute areas that need attention. Practicing with authentic TOEFL tools ensures you’re fully prepared for the test experience.
  • Rest well before test day to ensure you’re mentally and physically prepared.
  • Ensure you have your ID (a valid passport), test confirmation, and other necessary documents for the test center.

Tricks & Tips for Success

Following is a list of the tips that will help you get the best out of your preparation for the TOEFL test:

  • Focus on high-quality practice rather than cramming. Short, focused sessions will help improve skills more effectively than marathon study sessions.
  • Stay positive and confident.
  • Trust official TOEFL resources.

Preparing for the TOEFL in 15 days is doable if you have good English skills and utilize the official TOEFL prep resources. Stay consistent, make use of ETS's trusted resources, and remember that every day counts. Good luck on your TOEFL journey!

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