Summary
Before: After two months of studying TOEFL at a famous English institute, I took my first TOEFL test and scored 75.
Despite my hardest efforts, my Speaking and Writing scores didn’t improve.
Took 8 hours of TG Tutoring sessions. I repeatedly practiced with TestGlider’s mock tests based on my tutor’s feedback.
After: I scored 93 on my second TOEFL test, especially with an increase of 8 points in the writing section!
Why did you start studying for the TOEFL, and what was your target score?
I studied TOEFL in preparation for a master’s program in the U.S. The minimum score requirement for U.S. graduate programs was 75, while top-tier schools often require over 100. My goal was to score at least 90.
How did you study for the TOEFL before meeting TG Tutoring?
I took a 2-month TOEFL intensive course at a famous TOEFL institute. After taking the course, I scored 75 on my first test. I scored 22-23 in the Reading and Listening sections, but I got 14 and 16 in the Speaking and Writing sections, respectively, which was worrisome
Why did you need private tutoring?
I dedicated much time and effort to studying for TOEFL, but my scores didn’t improve.
I needed a higher score and thought one-on-one feedback from a tutor would help me. The TOEFL course I took at the institute was satisfying, but it was hard to ask questions in a large class. I wanted more personalized feedback on my weak areas. Conclusionally, I made the right decision. Ultimately, I’m glad I chose private tutoring over continuing with the academy.
Why did you choose TG Tutoring?
Students at the TOEFL Institute recommended TestGlider, so the service was familiar to me. I found that TestGlider offers private tutoring and TOEFL mock tests, so I applied for the free consultation and registered for the tutoring sessions.
What did you find difficult in TOEFL?
On my first TOEFL test, I was short of time and had difficulty understanding the passages and questions. The atmosphere at the test center also made it hard to focus on listening. I was too nervous to speak fluently, although memorizing the templates. For the writing section, I filled in the required word limit but failed to get my desired score.
How did you study for TOEFL with TG Tutoring?
I took 8 hours of TG Tutoring sessions for two weeks and then studied by myself for another week. During this time, I repeatedly took the 12 mock tests TestGlider offers.
Can you tell me more about your experience with TG Tutoring?
First I took a TG mock test and reviewed it based on my tutor’s feedback.
For the Writing section, I wrote two essays a day based on my tutor’s template and received feedback on my essays. TestGlider AI corrections were also very helpful.
For the Speaking section, I got detailed feedback on my response from my tutor and retook the same test for practice. Also, I practiced note-taking to see what I should take correctly.
One week before the test, I tried to expose myself to listening to English by watching YouTube videos. For the Speaking and Writing sections, I continued to take section tests regularly based on my templates.
How did the TG Tutoring help to improve your TOEFL scores?
My listening comprehension improved significantly. I could speak more fluently in the Listening section, and I also got more confidence in the Reading and Writing sections. Ultimately, my Listening score increased by 4 points, my Speaking score by 6 points, and my Writing score by 8 points.
Your Writing score increased quite significantly. Do you have any tips for the section?
Personalized feedback is the most important to improve your scores.
I practiced with independent tasks. I wrote 2 independent essays daily and got AI corrections for them. Based on the corrections, I revised my essays and found how to improve my skills.
What do you think is the strength of TG tutoring?
TestGlider’s mock tests quickly detect my weak areas, which helps me to study efficiently.
Thanks to the membership benefits, I was able to practice by myself. Also, the immediate feedback was very helpful.
Lastly, the tutor’s support throughout the session was highly impressive. I was exhausted from studying for TOEFL when I signed up for tutoring, but my tutor encouraged me not to give up.
How do you feel about reaching your desired score?
I have mixed feelings about it. My goal was to score over 90 when I started studying. Scoring 93 is a great relief!
Now I’m planning to focus on math for a while, and I’ll probably register for the TOEFL again soon to try for over 100 before submitting my master’s applications.
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