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Anxious About Taking an English Language Test? These Tips Can Help!
Taking an English language test is one of the most important steps if you want to pursue or continue your higher education journey outside of your home country and in English. You dedicate time and effort to achieving the score you need and feel ready to take on the challenge. But what about that nervous feeling that creeps in as test day approaches? If you feel stressed, restless, or like you’ve forgotten everything you’ve learned, you may be experiencing test anxiety—a common challenge for many test takers.
While a certain level of anxiety is normal, high-stakes tests can amplify these feelings because of their impact on your future. To ensure that test anxiety doesn’t interfere with your performance, here are a few strategies to help you stay in control and perform your best.
It might seem obvious, but preparation is key in reducing test anxiety. Especially for high-stakes international English tests like the TOEFL iBT®, using high-quality test prep materials will not only ease your nerves but also help you achieve your desired score while preparing you for your future academic journey.
The TOEFL® TestReady platform is an excellent resource for test preparation. With a free profile, you gain access to:
- A full-length, AI-scored Mock Test
- Daily practice activities
- A personalized study plan
Additionally, you can purchase extra test prep courses, guides, and packs as needed. Familiarity with the test format also helps ease anxiety. TOEFL® TestReady, along with informative videos on the TOEFL TV YouTube channel, provides an effective way to get comfortable with the test and boost your confidence.
With a Little Help From Your Friends
Facing a challenge like an English language test is easier when you have support. Just like sticking to a workout plan or making changes to your diet, having a study partner or group can make a big difference.
Forming study groups with friends who are also preparing for the test allows you to:
- Exchange study tips and insights
- Provide constructive feedback
- Stay motivated to study regularly
Not everyone can afford a private tutor, but most of us can find a study buddy. Social media is a great place to connect with like-minded individuals, and if you’re working on improving your English skills, joining an international study group can give you even more exposure to the language.
Yes, You Can Do It!
To perform your best on test day, follow these simple yet effective tips:
- Prioritize rest – not just the night before, but in the days leading up to your test.
- Eat a healthy breakfast and dress comfortably in layers.
- Immerse yourself in English on test day by listening to music or a podcast.
- Know your test center location and plan your arrival time accordingly.
- Avoid discussing the test with others beforehand to minimize unnecessary stress.
- Use a focusing word or phrase to stay confident, such as:
- “I can do it!”
“Don’t give up!”
Studying abroad is an unforgettable adventure, and while getting into the university of your choice takes effort, it’s worth it. In the future, you’ll realize that your test score was just one step in a much bigger journey. More than just a number, it’s proof that you’re prepared to succeed in an English-speaking academic environment.
The TOEFL iBT® test is your gateway to achieving your academic dreams. With the right preparation and mindset, you’ve got this!
About ETS
ETS is a global education and talent solutions organization enabling lifelong learners to be future-ready. We advance the science of measurement to build the benchmarks for fair and valid skill assessment. We are committed to powering human progress by promoting skill proficiency, empowering upward mobility and unlocking more opportunities for everyone, everywhere. Our assessment products—including the TOEFL®, TOEIC®, GRE®, and Praxis® assessments—as well as our innovative solutions and subsidiaries, help 50 million people each year clarify their strengths and find opportunities for growth in education, work and beyond. For more information, visit www.ets.org.