Miss Jiraganya Bhongsatien

TOEFL iBT Score 104
Reading 28 / Listening 29 / Speaking 26 / Writing 21

How did Kaplan’s curriculum, facilities and materials help you to prepare for the test?
I personally liked the practice tests from www.kaptest.com the most.  It was very helpful to see my progress on each part of the test.  The answers were clear enough that I could review them on my own (even the active tests such as speaking and writing examples).  In terms of other facilities, I appreciated what Kaplan provides students as there was both a computer room and a library.  The computer room was well-equipped with plenty of desktop computers which I felt comfortable working with.  In addition, the library was the best place for me to practice extra paper practice tests or check out other test preparation books therefore, I did not have to buy any of them at bookstores!

How did you plan yourself for the TOEFL iBT in terms of time management? 
I enrolled in the 3-month TOEFL class because I planned to take the test right after the class ended.  Because of that, I had enough time practicing all test materials, and attending the class at the same time.  This helped me evaluate which parts of the test were my weakness so that I could ask my tutor to explain them more in class.  Also, a couple weeks before taking the test, I chose to review only my weak points by practicing more with easy exercises.  This way, I could encourage myself on how fun the test could be and avoid being too nervous on the real test.

What techniques did you use to get a higher score?
In fact, there was no specific technique.  Understanding how the test is written and the methods of test assessment is rather important.  Nevertheless, one thing that I kept in mind when I practiced was that the test is strictly timed by computer.  I timed myself especially in the speaking drills.  As a result, I was able to briefly complete enough content in such a short period of time.

Did Kaplan’s strategies help you get a higher score?
I learned how to skim through each passage by understanding how it is typically organized.  Then, I applied the organization of the passage to the other three parts of the test: listening, speaking and writing.  It worked nicely on my writing skill.  Moreover, Kaplan’s strategies of making notes and organizing a scratch paper helped develop my listening and speaking skills effectively. I would have tried to write down every single word from the lecture and conversation if I had never known this strategy.

Do you have any encouraging words to friends who are preparing for the test?
To be good at foreign languages, it is important to be persistant.  The more you practice, the better you will become because you will then feel more comfortable using it.  Therefore, if you have decided that TOEFL will be necessary part of your application to English speaking programs, there is no other way except trying your best and never, ever giving up (This is I keep telling myself everyday!)
Good Luck and Good Day!