The TOEIC Exam: Description and Preparation Tips

The TOEIC exam (Test of English for International Communication) was introduced in 1979 as a means of assessing English skills common in business. Thousands of companies and government agencies across the world use this test each year.

Description

The TOEIC exam covers four English language skills:

Listening and Reading: This exam is paper-based and consists of 200 questions; allotted time is approximately 2 hours. It covers grammar and vocabulary used in the workplace. Potential employees must be able to communicate on the telephone, in meetings, and at videoconferences. They'll need to read emails and reports. This exam evaluates proficiency levels in these categories.

Scores range from 10 to 990. Click here to see how score relates to level of proficiency.

Speaking and Writing: This portion of the exam is fairly new and is not available in all countries. It is internet-based and the time frame is 90 minutes. It assesses coherence and organization. The two parts of this test are scored separately.

Tests can be retaken, but cost, currently $85, is a factor.

TOEIC Helps Corporations

Corporations are looking to recruit qualified employees to represent them in a global economy. They also want to identify job training requirements. Companies often use the TOEIC to improve training programs in regard to English language learning.

TOEIC Helps Test-Takers

Millions of individuals take the TOEIC exam each year. It is a graduating criterion for some universities. The TOEIC becomes part of a prospective employee's profile. It is recognized worldwide as proof of competence in English communication.

TOEIC Advice from an Expert

I spoke to Rob Phipps, manager at Online English, based in Hamburg, Germany. His company helps TOEIC test-takers succeed. Phipps advises students to have an idea of their current English proficiency levels and understand how to reach their targets.

Preparation training programs and test simulators are designed to help students become accustomed to the TOEIC, its format, and the testing environment. Phipps says these programs can help students receive higher scores than they otherwise would have. However, preparation training programs will not help a student to learn the English language. Students should strive for fundamental English language learning, focused training, and ongoing level assessment.

TOEIC Preparation Tips
1. Work on weak areas. Devise a study plan and sign up for related classes and programs.
2. Build vocabulary. Write new words and phrases in a daily journal.
3. Hire a tutor, if necessary.
4. Understand the TOEIC practice models.
5. Listen to music. Read stories. Immerse yourself in the language for at least a half hour a day.
6. Read aloud. Ask a friend who is competent to listen to you.
7. When using practice tapes, don't rewind them. You won't be able to rewind on test day.
8. If you don't know a word or phrase, use context clues to help figure it out.
9. Set a goal. The minimum Listening/Reading score requirement is generally 600, 800 for managers.
10. Relax. Manage your time so that you're not cramming at the last minute.

To read more education articles by this author, click here.

References:
Robert Phipps; Manager, Online English; Hamburg, Germany
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