How to Pass English Proficiency Tests

Photo and essay by Ammar Abdullah

Do you often hear students complain about English proficiency tests? English proficiency tests (TOEFL and IELTS) are required for university admissions in many programs which require English language proficiency. Many international students have trouble passing these tests to satisfy English language requirements. The student may take these tests several times without reaching their target score or the minimum score required for admission. However, the students could achieve their goals by following certain strategies and working hard before taking these tests. There are four essential strategies to pass these tests: identifying weaknesses and strengths, working on improving skills, taking sample tests, and preparing for the test day.

In the beginning, the students should determine their weaknesses and strengths. This can be done by taking trial or sample tests and reviewing the results. Consequently, the students will recognize which skills are better than the others. For instance, if I took a trial test and noticed that I have problems in grammar, which may influence my writing and speaking performance, then I should focus on grammar skills more than others. Therefore, I will be able to make my study plan.

After setting the plan of study, it is now the time to enhance language skills. This is the longest step because it requires hard work and a lot of study. First, students have to find suitable resources (books, articles, and websites). Some students really like self-study. They should practice the newly learned skills regularly and take several tests (I suggest on a monthly basis) to evaluate their development. Those who like only self-study may not get a lot of speaking practice, so they need to practice with an English native speaker. Ultimately, they should continue working hard until they gain the sufficient level and confidence in using the English language skills.

Next, the students can take sample or trial tests again, but this time it is to ensure that they are able to pass the actual tests. These practice tests may be available in books (like TOEFL and IELTS practice books), or online practice tests. Moreover, some tutors have their own tests. If the students are able to pass practice tests, they can apply and pass the actual tests. Otherwise, additional studies and preparations are required. For example, if a student needs 100 out of 120 in TOEFL IBT test, he must score more than 100 in the practice test.

Finally, the students are ready for the actual test. However, there are important steps to preparation for the test day. Because the test will take a long time, test takers must rest and sleep well before the test day. They should also have a healthy breakfast to avoid illness and have a high level of concentration on the day of the exam. Furthermore, they should not be stressed, and they must be confident. Thus, they will do what is required and achieve a successful test grade.

Although it is not easy to pass the English proficiency exam, students can do so by following certain methods. The efficient diagnosis of English language skills, the perfect study for improving current levels, the satisfactory practicing before taking the test, and the mental and physical preparations are the key factors of passing these tests. Thus, the test taker will achieve excellent results and overcome any possible failure. If I had known these steps in preceding period, I suppose my performance would have been much better in the language before I arrived to America.