The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is an internationally-recognized examination that certifies you as proficient in English (both reading and writing) at a level that will allow you to succeed in an academic setting. This test is generally required for admission into any English-speaking university, and may also be required before you are able to apply for a job with an international organization. When it was first established as a benchmark for English proficiency in 1964, the TOEFL was completed using pencil and paper. Later, the TOEFL was converted to a computer-based testing system, and today most TOEFL examinations are done on-line. References to TOEFL now generally include the notation “IBT,” or “internet-based test.” Testing centers where students and applicants can take the TOEFL-IBT are located worldwide, and test dates are scheduled year-round.

The TOEFL tests your ability to read and write English, and to listen to and respond in English. You will need to be able to analyze several written passages and answer questions about meaning and content, and write a summary explaining one or more of the passages. You will have to be able to listen to one or several people discussing topics, and then answer questions out loud about what you heard and understood. As you might imagine, not being able to understand one or more vocabulary words will put you at a serious disadvantage! The vocabulary practice you’re doing now will help, but we’d like to point out a few more resources for your study:

The Compass TOEFL IBT Series
(various authors/editors)

This set of books (some with MP3 or audio CDs) covers all aspects of the test, and gives you practice in listening, reading, and writing. While this series does not focus on vocabulary in particular, it gives you a good overview of what you can expect from the test. You can choose the beginning, intermediate, or advanced level, depending on where you are in your current studies.

500 Words, Phrases, Idioms for the TOEFL iBT Plus Typing Strategies
(Bruce Stirling)

This book and audio CD give you practice tests that challenge you to use new words in context as well as learning to spell them correctly. Because you’re given several different opportunities to use each word, you’ll find that you remember the words quickly and easily.

Essential TOEFL Vocabulary
(Princeton Review)

Not everyone finds using flash cards to be a helpful study method, but if you do, these are some of the best available for TOEFL study, and Princeton Review is one of the more well-established test preparation organizations. The cards give you practice using words in context and provide synonyms, pronunciation guides, and definitions to help you learn and memorize 500 essential vocabulary words.

Have you taken the TOEFL-IBT? What was the most helpful vocabulary study you did before the test? Leave your tips and tricks in the comments section.