Higher Education in America, Part Eight - 2003-06-21

Higher Education in America, Part Eight - 2003-06-21. The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is very important for foreign applicants to universities in the United States. The word TOEFL is an acronym formed from the first letters of 'Test of English as a Foreign Language.' This exam is mandatory for admission to over four thousand higher education institutions in the U.S. The purpose of the exam is to assess the candidate's ability to understand English and to read and write in this language. The Educational Testing Service now offers the TOEFL exam in two different formats. In most parts of the world, candidates can go to designated testing centers and take the exam using a computer. In addition to this method, there is another format where candidates complete the exam using pencil and paper. Both testing methods require listening, reading, and writing in English. Some questions are multiple-choice, and candidates must select the correct answer from among them. The exams now also include new types of questions. For example, you may be asked a question that has more than one correct answer, or you may need to choose the relevant answer(s) from the provided options. Your ability to write in English is also tested. Overall, completing the TOEFL exam takes between three and a half to four hours. Candidates can take this exam an unlimited number of times. Experts say that to gain experience and increase success, taking the exam once or twice before the final attempt is beneficial. Additionally, experts believe that using English daily contributes to a candidate's success in the TOEFL exam. For instance, listening to English radio programs is a good practice. Besides the dedicated English language programs of Voice of America, also listen to the regular programs of this radio. Record one hour of the program and explain what it included. Watching American films is also helpful, as is reading English publications. In summary, increase your experience in speaking English as much as possible. For more information about the TOEFL exams, refer to the website at www.tofl.org. If you do not have access to a computer, more information can be obtained by contacting the address below. TOEFL Services Educational Testing Services Post Office Box 6151 Princeton, NJ 08541 USA. Report on the Education of Foreign Students - Number 9. This exclusive report by Voice of America was prepared by Nancy Steinbeck.