Getting ready for the TOEFL can seem a bit overwhelming, but don’t sweat it! There are tons of amazing courses that can help you score big on test day.
The best TOEFL prep courses offer practice tests, study strategies, and top-notch teaching. They’ll not only boost your confidence but also help raise those all-important scores.
We’ve sifted through a bunch of options to bring you our top six picks.
These programs are designed to help you master the reading, listening, speaking, and writing sections of the TOEFL.
1) Magoosh TOEFL Prep
Looking to enhance your TOEFL score without draining your wallet? Magoosh TOEFL Prep could be just the ticket.
This online course comes packed with resources to help you tackle the test like a pro.
Magoosh keeps it fun and informative with video lessons that span all TOEFL sections.
The bite-sized format makes learning super easy and accessible—watch them anytime, anywhere.
Practice is key, right? Magoosh loads you up with practice questions, plus you can take complete practice tests to get a taste of the real deal.
Worried about fitting study into your already packed schedule? No worries! Magoosh offers flexible plans that let you choose between 6-month and 12-month access, so you can learn at a pace that works for you.
Got questions? Magoosh is there to support you via email, and they even have a handy mobile app for studying on the fly.
The cherry on top? Magoosh is super budget-friendly compared to other prep courses and backs itself up with a score improvement guarantee.
If your score doesn’t improve, you get your money back.
Can’t beat that!
2) Kaplan TOEFL iBT Prep Course
Kaplan hits the mark with a solid TOEFL iBT prep course that can help elevate your scores.
These folks have been in the test prep scene for ages, so they know how to get results.
The course includes more than 190 video lessons from experienced teachers that cover strategies for each section of the test.
Taking four full-length practice exams that mimic the actual test format means you’ll be prepared when the big day arrives.
One standout feature? Kaplan offers personalized feedback on your writing samples.
That extra help can make a world of difference.
The self-paced course starts at $349, which might sound a bit steep.
But if you need to manage payments, they allow you to spread it out with Affirm.
You’ll have six months of access to the course materials, giving you ample time to dive in and conquer any tough spots.
3) The Complete Guide to the TOEFL Test by Bruce Rogers
Want to raise your TOEFL score? Don’t miss out on The Complete Guide to the TOEFL Test by Bruce Rogers.
This book has been a top choice for many students prepping for the exam.
Rogers has tons of teaching experience under his belt and has written plenty of materials to help learners succeed.
This guide covers every corner of the TOEFL.
You’ll find practice questions resembling the real deal, plus clever tips for acing the exam.
It’s not just about passing the test; it’s also about strengthening your overall English skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Readers rave about this book’s usefulness.
It gives you a clear view of what to expect on test day and is straightforward and easy to navigate.
4) TOEFL Listening and Speaking Mastery
Ready to ace the listening and speaking sections of the TOEFL? Look no further than these fantastic courses!
TOEFL Speaking and Writing Sections Skills Mastery on Coursera is an excellent option.
It breaks down the different tasks you’ll encounter and provides savvy strategies for tackling them.
Want an all-in-one TOEFL prep experience? Check out the TOEFL iBT Complete Preparation Course on Udemy.
It’s overflowing with tips, tricks, and practice across all TOEFL sections, including listening and speaking.
And if you’re looking to hone your overall English while preparing for the TOEFL, the TOEFL Preparation Certificate Program from UC Irvine on Coursera deserves a peek.
It teaches useful skills like note-taking and analyzing speech patterns.
These courses can definitely help you boost your confidence in the listening and speaking sections.
With some dedicated practice, you’ll be all set to showcase your language skills come test day!
5) ETS TOEFL Official Guide
Want to prep with official materials right from the test makers? The ETS TOEFL Official Guide is a must-have.
It’s loaded with authentic TOEFL iBT test questions and essay prompts.
This guide gives you the lowdown on what to expect on test day and includes tips to help you give your best performance, along with skill-building activities to boost your confidence.
You’ll find practice tests that mimic the real test format, giving you a great chance to assess your readiness and identify any areas that need a little extra attention.
Just keep in mind that the latest edition might not cover every single change to the test.
Still, it’s a trusted resource that many test-takers swear by.
Using official materials can really give you an upper hand since they’re developed by the same folks behind the actual exam—can’t get more authentic than that!
6) Barron’s TOEFL iBT Superpack
Hoping to nail the TOEFL? Check out the Barron’s TOEFL iBT Superpack.
This bundle’s packed with study materials to sharpen your skills.
The Superpack includes four books that offer practice tests, audio tracks, and a wealth of tips for improving your English.
One book focuses on essential TOEFL vocabulary, covering 500 words you’re likely to encounter on the test—great for expanding your word bank.
Plus, you’ll get access to online tests that mirror the real exam format, helping you get comfy with how everything works.
The audio resources are fantastic for practicing your listening and speaking skills, letting you fine-tune your pronunciation and adapt to various accents.
The Barron’s TOEFL iBT Superpack is an excellent choice for comprehensive preparation, covering all test areas and providing plenty of practice opportunities.
Overview of TOEFL Preparation
Getting prepped for the TOEFL might seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can boost your scores and roll into test day feeling confident.
Why Preparing for TOEFL Matters
The TOEFL is a big deal for many students.
It’s often a requirement for college admissions in English-speaking countries, and good scores can open doors to fantastic schools and programs.
Proper preparation can help you:
- Feel less stressed
- Understand what to expect
- Enhance your English skills
- Score higher on the test
When you study, you familiarize yourself with the test format and the kinds of questions you’ll encounter.
That frees you up to focus on showcasing your English skills instead of figuring out the test itself.
Components of the TOEFL Exam
The TOEFL is divided into four main sections:
- Reading
- Listening
- Speaking
- Writing
Each section tests a specific English skill.
You’ll read passages, listen to lectures, speak on various topics, and write essays.
The test measures your ability to use English in an academic environment.
It’s not just about vocabulary and grammar; it’s about truly understanding and utilizing the language in real-world situations.
Good prep courses will support you in all four areas, providing practice materials and tips tailored for each section.
That way, you can zero in on any weak spots and sharpen up for every part of the exam.
Tips for Choosing the Right Course
Finding the right TOEFL prep course can really make a difference in your success on the test.
Think about how you learn best and your budget before you dive in.
Understanding Your Learning Style
Are you a visual learner? Then you’ll want courses that feature plenty of videos and graphics.
Prefer to learn by doing? Look for programs that offer lots of practice tests.
Some people thrive studying independently, while others appreciate having teacher support.
Magoosh’s TOEFL course offers a blend of video lessons and practice questions—perfect if you enjoy learning through visual content and exercises.
If you need a bit more guidance, Kaplan’s course offers live online classes, which might suit you if you prefer real-time teacher interaction.
Budget Considerations
TOEFL prep courses can come with a wide range of price tags.
Setting a budget before you start looking can save you a headache.
Remember, the priciest option isn’t necessarily the best fit for you.
Udemy’s complete TOEFL prep course clocks in at just $129 and includes 51 hours of video lessons—a solid pick if you’re working with a tight budget.
If you have a bit more room to spend, Magoosh offers various plans ranging from $59 to $339 that let you learn at your own speed over 6 to 12 months.
Think carefully about the features you truly need.
Some courses come with extras like one-on-one tutoring, which can be super helpful but might be pricier.
Frequently Asked Questions
A lot of folks have questions about TOEFL prep courses.
Here are some common ones, along with their answers, to help you out.
What’s the best TOEFL prep course available online?
Magoosh TOEFL Prep is often hailed as a top choice for online prep.
With plenty of practice questions and video lessons, you can study in a way that fits your lifestyle.
Where can I find a solid TOEFL prep course nearby?
You can find in-person TOEFL prep classes at local colleges or language schools.
They often offer classes, and you may also discover tutoring centers in your area that specialize in test prep.
Are there any great free TOEFL prep courses out there?
You’ll find sample questions and helpful tips on their website—a fantastic way to kickstart your preparation without spending a dime.
Which online course is best for scoring high?
Kaplan TOEFL iBT Prep Course is known for helping students achieve higher scores with its practice tests that feel like the real thing and detailed performance feedback.
Can you recommend any good in-person TOEFL prep classes?
Many test prep companies offer in-person classes.
Be on the lookout for The Complete Guide to the TOEFL Test by Bruce Rogers at local bookstores.
This book is often utilized in classroom settings and can help you find nearby courses.
Know of any excellent free online TOEFL preparation resources?
Check out TOEFL Listening and Speaking Mastery on Coursera.
It’s part of a larger TOEFL prep course, but you can audit it for free and access great videos and practice exercises.