Retaking the TOEFL: How to Improve Your Score Fast

Introduction

So, you’ve taken the TOEFL once, and the result wasn’t quite what you hoped for. First, breathe. It’s completely normal—many students retake the TOEFL to boost their score for university admissions or visa applications. The good news? Your next attempt doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right approach, you can make targeted improvements in just a few weeks.

In this guide, we’ll walk through actionable strategies, time-saving techniques, and Indian-specific resources that can help you jump to your dream score—without burning out. Whether you’re aiming for a competitive US university or improving your PR chances for Canada, this is your roadmap.

Why Retaking the TOEFL Can Be an Advantage

Many people think a retake means failure—it doesn’t. In fact, it’s often a second chance with more experience.

• Familiarity with test format: You’ve already faced the structure and timing.

• Awareness of weak areas: You know exactly what brought your score down.

• Less anxiety: You’re not walking into the unknown.

Think of it like cricket—your first match teaches you the field; the second, you play with strategy.

Step-by-Step Plan to Improve Your TOEFL Score Fast

1. Analyse Your First Attempt (Be Honest, Not Harsh)

Before you open another practice book, look at your score breakdown. Was it the Listening section? Reading speed? Speaking nerves?

Pro Tip: If you don’t remember details, recreate the experience by taking a full-length timed mock test. Tools like ETS’s Official Practice Tests are closest to the real thing.

2. Set a Realistic Timeline

If your gap between tests is less than a month, focus on targeted drills, not full syllabus re-study. For 1–3 months, you can afford a balanced approach.

Example schedule:

• Daily: 30 mins vocabulary, 45 mins section-specific practice

• Weekly: 1 mock test + analysis day

3. Focus on Section-Wise Strategies

Reading – Improve Speed Without Losing Accuracy

• Skim for keywords, not full sentences.

• Practice with Indian news sites like The Hindu or The Indian Express to adapt to dense text.

• Learn context guessing for unfamiliar words instead of stopping to think.

Listening – Train Your Ear for Accents

• Listen to a mix of US, Canadian, and UK English on YouTube or podcasts.

• While watching shows, try note-taking on the main points.

• ETS recordings are usually academic—watch TED Talks to get used to formal speech.

Speaking – Build Confidence with Templates

• Prepare 2–3 flexible answer structures.

• Record yourself on your phone, then check clarity and pacing.

• If you can, practise with a partner or join a local English conversation club.

Writing – Nail Structure & Examples

• Follow the standard intro–body–conclusion format.

• Use examples from the Indian context—universities appreciate relatable and original content.

• Time yourself; aim to finish 5 minutes early for proofreading.

4. Use High-Quality Study Material Only

Don’t waste time with random PDFs. Use:

• ETS Official Guide (latest edition)

• Barron’s TOEFL iBT (for extra drills)

• Online practice tests from reliable sources

5. Practise Under Real Exam Conditions

If you’re easily distracted, you might lose points even if you “know” the answers.

• Study in a public library or a noisy café occasionally.

• Wear headphones and set a timer during practice.

• Avoid pausing—simulate the real pressure.

6. Manage Test-Day Nerves Like a Pro

• Visit your test centre location in advance.

• Sleep well the night before—no last-minute cramming.

• Carry required ID and confirmation printout.

• Use deep breathing before the Speaking section—it genuinely steadies your voice.

Mistakes to Avoid When Retaking the TOEFL

• Overloading with material—choose depth over quantity.

• Skipping mock test analysis—improvement comes from spotting mistakes.

• Ignoring mental health—burnout can reduce performance.

Quick Score-Boost Hacks for Last-Minute Prep

• Memorise functional phrases for Speaking (e.g., “One reason is that…”).

• For Listening, predict the answer type before hearing the options.

• For Reading, answer easy questions first to secure marks.

Useful Resources for TOEFL Preparation

• TOEFL Official Site – ETS India

• National Digital Library of India – Free academic resources for reading practice

• All India Radio English Service – Improves listening comprehension

Conclusion

Retaking the TOEFL isn’t a setback—it’s your chance to show growth and determination. By focusing on targeted improvements, practising smart, and managing test-day stress, you can make a significant score jump in just weeks.

Remember, confidence comes from preparation, and preparation comes from consistency. Your dream score is within reach—you just need the right game plan.

If you’re looking for expert guidance, structured study plans, and personalised feedback, TOUCHSTONE EDUCATIONALS can help you fast-track your TOEFL success.

FAQs About Retaking the TOEFL

1. How soon can I retake the TOEFL?
You can retake it as soon as you like—there’s no mandatory waiting period. Just book the next available date.

2. Does retaking the TOEFL affect my university application?
No. Most universities consider your highest score, and some even “superscore” by combining your best section scores.

3. Can I prepare in 2 weeks for a TOEFL retake?
Yes, if you focus only on your weakest areas and take daily mock tests.

4. What is a good TOEFL score for Indian students?
It depends on your target institution—90+ is solid for most universities, but elite ones may ask for 100–110+.

5. Is TOEFL harder than IELTS for Indians?
It depends on your comfort with computer-based exams and American English. Many find the TOEFL’s speaking section easier because it’s recorded, not face-to-face.

6. Will TOEFL preparation help me in other English exams?
Yes—skills overlap with IELTS, PTE, and even campus placement English tests.