TOEFL scores range from 0 to 120, with most universities requiring scores between 80 and 100 for undergraduate admission and 100+ for graduate programs. A score of 90+ is considered competitive for top-tier institutions. The specific score you need depends on your target school's requirements, so it's helpful to identify your goal early and work toward it with focused preparation.

Students often struggle most with the speaking section, which requires real-time English production without preparation time, and the listening section, which features academic lectures at natural speed. Many also find the integrated writing task challenging because it combines listening, reading, and writing skills simultaneously. Personalized tutoring helps address these specific weak areas through targeted practice and feedback that classroom instruction typically can't provide.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment to identify your current English proficiency level, strengths, and areas needing improvement. The tutor will discuss your target score, timeline, and any specific sections causing difficulty. From there, you'll develop a personalized study plan focused on your goals, whether that's building foundational skills or perfecting your approach to reach a competitive score.

Timeline varies significantly based on your starting level and target score, but most students see meaningful improvement within 8-12 weeks of consistent preparation. Students starting from a lower proficiency level may need 3-6 months to reach competitive scores. Personalized tutoring accelerates progress by focusing directly on your weaknesses rather than spending time on skills you've already mastered.

One-on-one tutoring adapts to your specific needs, pacing, and learning style—something group courses can't do. A tutor can spend extra time on your weakest section, provide immediate feedback on your speaking and writing, and adjust strategy based on your progress. Research on learning shows that personalized instruction significantly accelerates skill development compared to one-size-fits-all approaches.

Yes. Many students connect with tutors to focus intensively on one or two sections rather than preparing for the entire exam. For example, if speaking is your biggest challenge, a tutor can dedicate sessions to speaking strategies, pronunciation, fluency, and real-time practice. This targeted approach is more efficient than general test prep and helps you maximize your score in the areas that matter most.

Look for tutors with proven experience teaching English to non-native speakers and specific TOEFL test expertise. Ideally, they should have high TOEFL scores themselves, understand the exam format inside-out, and have a track record of helping students reach their target scores. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who meet these standards and can provide references and background information.