TOEFL 101: What It Is and How Lingua Helps You Succeed

If you're planning to study in the U.S. or another English-speaking country, you might already be feeling the pressure of language requirements. One name you'll hear often is the TOEFL. So, what is the TOEFL test, and why does it matter so much?

What does TOEFL stand for? The TOEFL: short for Test of English as a Foreign Language, is one of the most trusted English proficiency exams in the world. It’s designed to help schools understand your ability to communicate clearly in academic settings. If you're feeling overwhelmed, you're not alone. The good news is, with the right preparation, you can feel confident and ready to succeed. Here's all you need to know about the TOEFL test and how Lingua Language Center can help you prepare for success. 

Why Do Students Take the TOEFL Test?

Students take the TOEFL primarily to apply to colleges and universities where English is the language of instruction. Most institutions in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia require non-native English speakers to submit TOEFL scores as part of their admissions process. A high score can not only secure your admission but may also qualify you for scholarships, work-study programs, or advanced placement in academic courses.

In addition to college applications, the TOEFL is also accepted by professional licensing boards, immigration departments, and employers globally. Whether you're preparing for higher education, immigration, or a job, this test helps prove your readiness to function in an English-speaking environment.

What Skills Are Tested in the TOEFL Exam?

The TOEFL exam evaluates four core language skills, each essential to succeeding in an academic or professional English-speaking setting:

• Reading: Understanding and analyzing academic texts
  
  
• Listening: Comprehending lectures and conversations
  
  
• Speaking: Responding to questions and expressing ideas clearly
  
  
• Writing: Composing structured essays with clear arguments

The entire test is conducted in English and typically takes about 3 hours to complete. Test-takers are expected to engage with real-world academic materials, such as lecture excerpts, classroom discussions, and scholarly articles.



Because the TOEFL is rigorous and fast-paced, preparing thoroughly is essential, especially if you want to achieve a competitive score.

How Lingua Language Center Helps You Succeed

At Lingua Language Center, we’ve helped countless students reach their TOEFL goals with programs designed specifically for exam readiness. Our TOEFL preparation classes cover every section of the test, providing strategies for each type of question and lots of timed practice.

We focus on boosting both your language skills and your confidence under pressure. Small class sizes mean you get individual feedback from experienced instructors who understand the exam format inside and out.

If you prefer learning in person, our in-person English classes at our Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Weston campuses offer an immersive and motivating environment where you can work closely with both teachers and peers. We emphasize real communication, clear pronunciation, and critical thinking, so you're fully prepared for what the TOEFL demands.

Lingua’s unique EnterTraining℠ approach combines interactive techniques and multisensory engagement, making your prep experience both effective and enjoyable.

Start with English Classes in Fort Lauderdale

Now that you know the right answer to the question “What is the TOEFL test?”, you should know that your TOEFL and other English proficiency exam scores can shape your academic and professional future, so don’t leave it to chance. At Lingua Language Center, we provide the tools and training to help you perform at your best.

Whether you’re just starting to prepare or want to sharpen specific skills before test day, our team is here to support you. We’ve been helping international students reach their language goals since 1998, and we’re ready to help you, too.

Are you looking for expert-led English classes in Fort Lauderdale?

Contact Lingua Language Center for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What does TOEFL stand for?

Answer:  The TOEFL: short for Test of English as a Foreign Language, is one of the most trusted English proficiency exams in the world. It’s designed to help schools understand your ability to communicate clearly in academic settings.

Question: Why do students take the TOEFL test? 

Answer:  Students take the TOEFL primarily to apply to colleges and universities where English is the language of instruction. Most institutions in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia require non-native English speakers to submit TOEFL scores as part of their admissions process.