How to prepare for the TOEFL test? | Step-by-step guide for Bangladeshi students

What is the TOEFL test?

TOEFL means Test of English as a Foreign Language. It's a well-known exam that checks how well you can read, write, speak, and understand English, especially in academic situations. This test is mainly for people whose first language is not English and who want to study in countries where classes are taught in English.

The purpose of the TOEFL

The TOEFL test is a consideration of students' ability to use English in an academic environment. A college that administers testing will use it to determine how well you can listen, speak, read, and write in English.

TOEFL for studying abroad from Bangladesh

Those who want to study overseas from Bangladesh will probably have to take the TOEFL examination. TOEFL scores are accepted by many Universities in countries like the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and some parts of Europe to assess an applicant's English skills. A good score can help you:

• Getting admission to top-ranked global universities
• Receiving scholarships or financial aid
• Securing a smooth student visa process

Who should take the TOEFL?

The TOEFL is a great way to show your English ability if you want to study and succeed at an international level. You should take the TOEFL test if:

• You want to study abroad for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree.
• The university needs proof of English skills.
• You’re applying for a student visa (USA, Canada, etc.).
• You want to boost your chances with a trusted English test.

Why is the TOEFL important for Bangladeshi students?

TOEFL becomes a passport for higher learning internationally for any Bangladeshi student. It verifies your knowledge of English, thereby offering admission, scholarship, and visa opportunities in top countries. Here’s why:

• Accepted by over 11,000 universities in 150+ countries
• A good score improves your chances of getting scholarships
• Needed for visa applications in top study destinations
• Helps you get into better-ranked universities
• Builds your skills and boosts confidence for academic life abroad

TOEFL test format at a glance

The TOEFL iBT test checks how well you use and understand English in academic settings. It is very useful for students who want to study abroad. The test became shorter in 2025. Now it takes about 2 hours. It is faster and more convenient, but it is still accepted by universities worldwide.

Here’s a breakdown of the latest TOEFL test format that applies to Bangladeshi test-takers:

This section checks your ability to understand academic texts, vocabulary, and implied meanings.

• Content: 2 to 3 reading passages taken from university-level academic materials
• Format: Multiple-choice questions based on the texts
• Timing: 35 to 50 minutes
• Number of questions: 20 total

This part tests how well you understand English conversations and lectures in real-life academic settings.

• Content: 3 academic lectures and 2 campus conversations
• Format: Multiple-choice questions based on each listening passage
• Timing: Approximately 36 minutes
• Number of questions: 28 total

This section measures your ability to speak English fluently and express ideas clearly in academic contexts.

• Content: 4 speaking tasks — 1 independent (your opinion) and 3 integrated (based on reading or listening)
• Format: You respond by speaking into a microphone; answers are recorded and reviewed
• Timing: 16 minutes
• Number of tasks: 4

This part evaluates your writing skills, especially your grammar, structure, and ability to argue or analyze effectively.

• Content: 2 writing tasks — 1 integrated (read/listen and write) and 1 independent (opinion-based essay)
• Format: You type your responses on a computer
• Timing: 50 minutes
• Number of tasks: 2

TOEFL 2025 update: Key changes Bangladeshi students must know

The TOEFL test underwent a major update in 2023 and the current format has continued into 2025 with the following changes:

1. Shorter duration: Total test time reduced from 3.5 hours to about 2 hours.
2. Reduced lengths: Reading and listening sections now have fewer questions.
3. Simplified speaking section: Now contains only 4 tasks (was 6 previously).

Step-by-step guide: How to prepare for the TOEFL exam?

Preparing for the TOEFL exam may seem difficult at first. But you can achieve a good score if you follow a clear and simple plan. Here is a step-by-step guide specially designed for Bangladeshi students:

Best resources for TOEFL preparation

You need the right study materials to get a good score on the TOEFL exam. Here are some of the best resources that can help Bangladeshi students prepare easily and effectively:

• Official Guide to the TOEFL Test
• ETS TOEFL YouTube Channel
• TOEFL Go! Mobile App
• Free websites like Magoosh, Testden, and EdX
• Books: Barron’s, Kaplan, and Cambridge TOEFL guides

How to prepare for the TOEFL at home?

Preparing for the TOEFL at home is easy if you follow the right steps. Here’s how you can get started:

• Learn the test format
• Make a daily study plan
• Use official TOEFL materials
• Watch English videos or lectures
• Practice speaking by yourself
• Read English articles or books
• Write essays regularly
• Take full mock tests at home

Common mistakes to avoid during TOEFL preparation

Many Bangladeshi students prepare hard for the TOEFL but still fall short because of small mistakes. Avoiding these common errors can save time and help you score higher.

• Not managing time properly
• Ignoring speaking practice
• Only focusing on grammar
• Skipping full-length mock tests
• Memorizing answers instead of understanding
• Using too many study materials
• Not following the TOEFL instructions
• Studying without a clear plan
• Avoiding feedback from others
• Neglecting vocabulary building

TOEFL exam preparation tips to score high

You need a good score on the TOEFL to study at top universities. You must practice regularly and follow the right steps to get a high score. Here are some easy tips that can help you do well on the test:

• Start your preparation early
• Make a daily study schedule
• Practice each section separately
• Take full-length mock tests regularly
• Read English articles, blogs, and books
• Listen to English podcasts and lectures
• Speak English every day
• Write short essays and check your mistakes
• Learn 5–10 new English words daily
• Use official TOEFL practice materials
• Stay calm and confident on test day

How Sangen Edu Ltd helps with TOEFL and study abroad?

Sangen Edu Ltd is an official TOEFL iBT Market Ambassador in Bangladesh. We offer complete support for students who are planning to study abroad. We help students prepare for the TOEFL exam with expert guidance and easy test registration. Our experienced counselors assist in choosing the right country, university, and course based on your goals.

• Free student counseling
• University application guidance
• TOEFL preparation support
• Scholarship and financial aid guidance
• Admission to top TOEFL-accepting universities
• Visa processing and travel assistance
• Pre-departure and travel support

Talk to our expert advisors and take your first step toward studying abroad.

Final words: Start your TOEFL preparation today!

The TOEFL test is your first step toward studying at a top university abroad. The sooner you start preparing, the better your chances of success. You can achieve your dream score with the right plan and support. So don’t wait. Start your TOEFL preparation today and let Sangen Edu Ltd guide you every step of the way!