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How to plan a good preparation for the TOEIC test?
Discover the suggested ETS Global schedule to optimize your test preparation for the TOEIC Listening and Reading test.
The TOEIC® Listening and Reading test is used to determine if you can communicate effectively at a proficient level in English across borders and cultures with co-workers and clients. One of its features is that there is no passing or failing score, but a continuous score scale that enables you to measure progress as your English language skills improve. To get the best result when you take the TOEIC® Listening and Reading test you should prepare for it.
To assist you in doing it properly, here is a non-exhaustive timetable that you could use to get ready before the Test-Day.
8 weeks before the test
On average, we recommend you to register for the TOEIC test about 8 weeks before the test date that suits you best. Having a set deadline is the first step to get into the preparation phase. Knowing exactly when you are going to take the test will give you a better visibility on the time you can dedicate to studying and help you to prepare your study calendar.
8 to 6 weeks before the test
Whatever your English language proficiency is, the TOEIC® Listening and Reading test needs to be prepared for. With a clear preparation plan, it is easier to get into a study rhythm. Depending on your level, you should consider preparing for the test for about 3 to 4 hours a week.
Many different resources are available to practice. From this abundance of preparation material, it is important to opt for official TOEIC® test preparation materials. These will help you focus on what the test is about and to its format. For instance, the TOEIC® Official Learning and Preparation Course is the only official skill-building and test preparation course, created by ETS. Having more official TOEIC content than any other preparation tool, it is a guarantee for an effective preparation.
However, it is not the only official preparation tool available. You can consider additional solutions when starting to practice for the test. The ETS Global website provides many resources that you can use as well.
3 to 2 weeks before the test
A few weeks before the test, you can evaluate how you are progressing and determine the areas on which you need to focus for the remainder of your preparation time. To do so, you can take a free TOEIC® Listening and Reading practice test on yourenglishtest.com. This official and complete online TOEIC test will give you an indication of your CEFR level and the corresponding description of your English proficiency.
The day before the test
The day before the test should not be dedicated to preparation anymore. Use this day to relax and rest. Review one last time the TOEIC® Listening and Reading Examinee Handbook to be sure you are familiar with everything you need to know before taking the test. Also, use this day to check the directions to the test centre and to plan your commute there. It will allow you to take travel concerns off your mind and it keeps you from worrying about it on the actual day of the test.
The day of the test
Being focused and well rested on the day of the test is as important as studying and practising your language skills before the test. If your studies went according to plan, if you know the format of the test and if you have everything ready before the Test-Day, you will feel more self-assured and that will give you a great benefit for the test session itself. Some practical advice: eat well, dress comfortably, allow yourself plenty of time to arrive at the test centre and do not stress over the test itself.
During the test session, work carefully and efficiently without lingering on questions. Pay attention to the time left and pace yourself accordingly. Knowing the format of the test and your strengths and weaknesses will facilitate a smooth test experience.
Following these few pieces of advice will give you the confidence to succeed on the TOEIC® Listening and Reading test. As soon as you feel ready, register for the TOEIC test, implement your planning and then put all the practice into good use!