TOEFL Preparation

For those who are building their future. TOEFL preparation course with AP Courses exam center

7 Підготовка до TOEFL
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What is TOEFL and why is it needed?

Test of English as a Foreign Language is a standardized test of English language proficiency for non-native speakers. It is taken by citizens of countries where English is not the common or official language. TOEFL is recognized by more than 9,000 higher education institutions and many professional and academic institutions in 130 countries. It is the most widely used test in the world, along with IELTS.

TOEFL iBT

In Ukraine, the test is taken remotely, using the online version, the Internet-based Test. There are two options for taking the test: from home (Home Edition) under the supervision of a proctor or at a test center in Kyiv.

Opportunities: education

Applicants take the test to enter educational institutions in the US, Canada, and many other countries where English is taught.

Opportunities: academic mobility

A test certificate is obtained in order to participate in international exchange programs. The need for a TOEFL certificate is always specified in the requirements for specific programs.

Opportunities: relocation

Some companies require job applicants to provide the results of this test, in which case it is necessary for immigrants to find employment.

What TOEFL looks like and its structure

The testing process takes 3 hours with a 10-minute break. All 4 parts of the exam, which correspond to basic language skills, are calculated for this time.

Structure and assessment

The test consists of 4 parts: Speaking, Listening, Reading, and Writing, each of which is worth a maximum of 30 points, and the total result is converted to a scale from 0 to 120 points. The assessment is carried out by ETS (Educational Testing Service), an American non-profit organization.

Reading: 54–72 minutes

You need to read 3–4 texts from popular science literature and choose the correct answers to 10 multiple-choice questions for each text. In terms of difficulty, these texts correspond to the literature used in educational institutions in English-speaking countries.

At this stage, the following skills are tested:

  • understanding academic-style texts;
  • correctly recognizing ideas and drawing conclusions;
  • analyzing and logically interpreting meanings;
  • determining the truthfulness of statements.

Writing: 50 minutes

Consists of 2 parts. 20 minutes are allocated for the first part. You need to read a short text and listen to a lecture where the speaker comments on it. Based on what they have learned, the test taker must write a text. In the second part, candidates write an essay based on a specific given statement, for which they are given 30 minutes.

In addition to spelling, the following writing skills are assessed:

  • the ability to apply vocabulary and grammar knowledge;
  • the ability to fully demonstrate overall language proficiency;
  • the ability to structure and logically express one’s own opinion;
  • convey the accuracy of information according to sources.

Listening: 41 – 57 minutes

In this part, you must listen to 3 or 4 audio recordings: 2–3 academic lectures and 1–2 formal conversations. Students are given 1 attempt and the opportunity to take notes, and the process takes up to 35 minutes. The rest of the time is spent answering questions about what they have heard, such as the topic of the lecture, the main idea of the dialogues, the emotions of the speakers, details or conclusions from the conversation.

This is how examiners check how well a person:

  • recognizes English by ear;
  • understands the language in different contexts;
  • is able to interpret what they hear.

Speaking: 17 minutes

4 tasks recorded via microphone.

1 – Independent Speaking Task

Examiners give a topic — a specific question, usually everyday, which the student has 15 seconds to prepare for and 45 seconds to answer.

2 – 4 – Integrated Speaking Tasks

These are combined tasks where you have to read and listen to recordings for a certain amount of time, then prepare for 20-30 seconds and answer the questions for 1 minute.

This part is assessed on:

  • clarity and pronunciation;
  • ability to organize the structure and style of the answer;
  • ability to demonstrate vocabulary and grammar knowledge orally;
  • consistency of the answer with the question.

 

About the exam

For more information on the conditions and dates of the exam, more opportunities offered by the TOEFL certificate, and the cost of registration, please visit the official website.

Learn more

Individual TOEFL preparation classes

Effective TOEFL preparation

Personalization

Fully personalized training program

Focus on what is important

Additional attention to current issues in the process

Flexible class schedule

No strict schedule, but respect for time

Cost of individual lessons

from 558 to 640 UAH/lesson

The price depends on the selected level and number of lessons

Group TOEFL preparation

Classes are structured according to our innovative Close to You format. Instead of the traditional group approach, we offer blended learning that combines the advantages of individual lessons with group practice. There is no room for toxic competition in our groups — each student receives individual attention, allowing them to reach their full potential.

Cost per class

from 279 UAH/lesson

Why choose TOEFL preparation with AP Courses?

Achievements that speak for themselves

Experience: 6+ years
Graduates: 9,000+
Language Cert candidates: 500+
Record: 96 hours, 41 seconds.

Independence gained through cooperation

We have been awarded the title of Platinum Partner by Cambridge English Assessment. This is part of the University of Cambridge, which develops English exams for more than 5 million people in 130 countries every year. They are recognized by more than 25,000 universities, employers, and organizations as a reliable standard for testing language proficiency.

Teachers who were once students

Our specialists also took international exams, experienced the fear of the commission, overcame the language barrier before the speaking part, and prepared for several months. Therefore, they care not only about the knowledge of students, but also about their confidence.

Innovation woven from tradition

When the teacher says “attention,” the students immediately look at the board and prepare their notebooks for notes. This instinct is as old as the English language itself, but we almost lost it during distance learning. We had to pull the teacher out of the window in the corner of the screen and create our own class — AP Studio, our own blackboard — AP Desk, and our own notebook — AP Note.

Uniqueness found in comparison

We keep a scoreboard for practical classes. It is so that students can see their own progress and the reason why they should continue learning. But next to their own scores, they see the results of others. It’s like sports: an athlete always gets lost in a team of players, but stands out among ordinary people.

AP Courses teachers who prepare students for TOEFL

Julia

English

More than 4 years of teaching students aged 6-60, preparation for international exams, business, and conversational English.

Julia
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Olga

English

4+ years of teaching experience. Teaching specialty – attention to detail. Passed ESOL, KITE (Kaplan International). Prepares for: ESOL, TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge Assessment English, and Ukrainian exams NMT and EVI.

Olga
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Natalia

English

Emphasizes the importance of “practicing incorrect speech” to train pronunciation and combat the fear of the language barrier. Chooses an individual pace for each student, encourages initiative, and works with adults and children.

Natalia
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Reviews

Valeriia Dzhalilova

I am studying on this platform in the English language course at levels B1-C1. The platform is really great 😁 I like the organization of the lessons, the time allocation, the presentation of topics, and the assignments for each topic. Most importantly, the teachers always give their all and have an individual approach to each student 💓 It is also very suitable for those who find it difficult to manage their time and have a mixed work schedule, as classes are held twice a day and the class materials are always stored on the platform. It’s great that there are often speaking clubs where you discuss various topics in small groups and your pronunciation and grammar are analyzed right away ☺️

Victoria Palivoda

I have been studying at this school for a little over a month and I love it. The large number of practice exercises, lectures, and answers to questions help me understand and remember new words and grammar, while speaking and audio exercises allow me to practice and reinforce what I have learned. I had many “gaps” in my grammar, but thanks to the lessons, I am beginning to understand and answer questions with more confidence. I enjoy studying with you!!! Thank you!!!)

Diana Yanovska

I am very satisfied with my studies at this English school! The atmosphere is pleasant and cozy, the premises are modern and comfortable — studying here is a pleasure. Special thanks to the teacher: she explains clearly, interestingly, and accessibly. I recommend it to everyone ☺️

Frequently asked questions about AP Courses

What level of English is required to start preparing for TOEFL?

To start preparing for the exam, you don’t need to have a specific level, but you need to provide the teacher with a clear request so that they can assess your abilities and determine the preparation period. It all depends on your expectations. If you are starting from scratch, it will take up to a year of preparation to achieve a high TOEFL score (levels B2–C1). We prepare people with different levels of prior knowledge for exams, and each person is assigned a specific period of time and different methods.

How long does the TOEFL preparation course last?

The duration of preparation depends on the student’s prior knowledge and the expected test score. We offer intensive and standard formats. Based on our experience, we have determined the average duration of courses: preparation usually takes from 1 to 9 months for students with different levels of knowledge.

How long is the TOEFL valid?

The TOEFL certificate is valid for 2 years from the date of completion. During the validity period of the certificate, the student has the opportunity to submit it to the admissions committee, show it to an employer during an interview, participate in an exchange program, get a job abroad, and use it for other career purposes. After this period, the test results will be considered invalid. They will not be suitable for proving English proficiency, and the participant will not be able to use them in official educational and work situations.

Is it possible to prepare for the TOEFL on your own?

It is possible to prepare on your own, but it is difficult. Without a teacher, it is more difficult for candidates to understand the cumbersome test format, improve their speaking skills, and get feedback. Such preparation takes more time. Only students with extensive prior access or those who are satisfied with a low score or the mere fact of participating in the exam successfully complete this task. For those who want to get a high score, we recommend contacting a specialist.

How much does the TOEFL preparation course cost?

The cost of the course depends on the package you choose, which includes different formats, number of lessons, duration of training, and services. Packages are available above on this page. For more detailed information, please leave a request for our managers, and they will be sure to advise you.

Can I take the TOEFL online?

Yes, an online version is available to candidates. The TOEFL iBT Home Edition is taken at home on a computer under the supervision of a proctor — an expert who ensures that the rules are followed. Students must ensure that the exam runs smoothly. It is important to have a stable internet connection, a quiet room, and several technical requirements: a working camera, microphone, sound playback device, and the ability to print, hear, and see the examiners.