IELTS or TOEFL? Which one should I take? 📝🌍
Achieve your English language goals with the below proven strategies.
Dear Readers,
Welcome to 21st Edition of
Every Wednesday and Friday I write a piece on scholarships, top admits & career opportunities. Today’s edition is reaching 104K+ students, parents, young professionals & more.As you embark on your journey to pursue international education, the English language proficiency requirement often looms large, threatening to hinder your path to academic excellence. While this hurdle might seem daunting, fear not!
With a well-structured plan, dedication, and a sprinkle of language-learning magic, you can undoubtedly conquer this challenge and secure the study abroad scholarship of your dreams.
1/ Demystifying English Language Proficiency Landscape 👨🏽🏫
The English proficiency requirement 📜 is not a mere arbitrary obstacle but rather a carefully considered measure designed to ensure that you possess the necessary language skills to thrive in an academic environment where English is the primary medium of instruction.
This requirement ensures that you can 👩🏽💻effectively engage in classroom discussions, comprehend lectures, critically analyze academic texts, and produce well-structured written assignments.
2/ Decoding IELTS & TOEFL: Your Gateway to Global Recognition 🌍
Two widely accepted tests are commonly used to demonstrate your English proficiency: the IELTS Academic Test and the TOEFL. Both tests assess your Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking skills, providing a comprehensive evaluation of your overall English language proficiency.
1/ IELTS Academic Test 📝: This test is generally preferred by institutions in Australia, the UK, and Europe. It emphasizes the use of English in an academic setting.
2/ TOEFL 🗣️: This test is more commonly required by North American institutions. It places a greater emphasis on North American English and the use of English in an everyday context.
3/ Embarking on a Year-Long Language Improvement Odyssey 🪄
Enhancing your English language skills requires a well-structured plan, unwavering dedication, and a willingness to immerse yourself in the language. Here's a one-year plan to guide your preparation ⬇️
The Foundation: Self-Assessment and Goal Setting (Months 1-3) 🎯
Know Your Current Level 📈: Take online tests or consult with a language expert to identify your strengths and weaknesses in each aspect of English language proficiency.
Set Realistic Goals 🏌🏽: Establish clear and achievable goals based on your current level and the required score for your desired scholarship.
Immersion and Practice: A Language-Filled Journey (Months 4-6) ✍🏽
Surround Yourself with English 📺: Immerse yourself in the language as much as possible. Read academic journals, watch English movies and TV shows, listen to English podcasts, and engage in conversations with native or proficient speakers.
Dedicate Time to Practice ⌚: Allocate time each day to practicing specific language skills. Use online resources, practice tests, and language learning apps to improve your grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, listening skills, and writing proficiency.
Refinement & Guidance: Polishing Language Skills (Months 7-9) ☑️
Seek Professional Instruction 👩🏽🏫: Consider enrolling in an English language course or hiring a tutor for personalized instruction and feedback.
Sharpen Your Writing Skills ✍🏽: Seek guidance from writing tutors or participate in online writing communities to refine your essay writing skills and academic writing style.
Test Preparation and Exam Readiness: Conquering the Language Assessment (Months 10-12) 📝
Utilize Official Test Preparation Materials 📑: Familiarize yourself with the exam format and question types by using official test preparation materials and practice tests.
Develop Effective Test-Taking Strategies ⛳: Learn techniques to manage exam anxiety and optimize your performance under pressure.
4/ Submitting Your Application with Confidence: Highlighting Your Strengths 💪🏽
Explore Waiver Options 💸: Inquire whether your scholarship or institution offers waivers for the English proficiency requirement, especially if you have completed your undergraduate studies in English or have a strong academic record.
Choose the Appropriate Test 📝: Select the right test, either IELTS or TOEFL, based on the requirements of your chosen scholarship or institution.
Proofread with Precision 🫱🏽🫲🏼: Have a trusted friend or mentor review your written essays and application materials to ensure they are free of grammatical errors and convey your ideas effectively.
Emphasize Your Strengths 🏆: Remember, English language proficiency is just one aspect of your application. Highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, research experience, and relevant skills. Showcase your passion for your field of study and your commitment to contributing to the global community.
5/ Embrace the Language Learning Adventure 🛸
Learning a new language is not merely 📈 an academic pursuit; it's a transformative journey that opens doors to new perspectives, cultures, and opportunities.
Embrace the process, enjoy the learning experience, 👩🏽💻 and don't be afraid to make mistakes. With dedication and perseverance, you can overcome the language barrier and achieve your study abroad dreams.
Here are 5 Free IELTS Resources that will Help you Ace the Exam 📢
Free online test practice 🆓
YouTube 👩🏽💻
App 📱
Webinars, Study Pack and Podcasts 🎙️
Websites 🖥️
Here are 5 Free TOEFL Resources that will Help you Ace the Exam 📢
Free Online Test Practice 🆓
YouTube Channels 👩🏽💻
TOEFL Prep App 📱
Webinars, Study Packs, and Podcasts 🎙️
Websites 🖥️
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