TOEFL scores range from 0-120, with most universities requiring scores between 80-100 for undergraduate admission and 100+ for graduate programs. A score of 90+ is generally considered competitive for top-tier institutions. The specific score you need depends on your target schools, so it's helpful to research requirements early and work with a tutor to develop a strategic study plan.

Most students struggle with the speaking section, which requires fluent, organized responses under time pressure, and the listening section, which features fast-paced academic lectures. Many also find the writing tasks challenging because they require synthesizing information from multiple sources and organizing complex ideas clearly. Personalized tutoring helps identify your specific weak areas—whether it's pronunciation, note-taking strategies, or essay structure—so you can focus practice where it matters most.

Most students benefit from 8-12 weeks of focused preparation, though the timeline depends on your starting level and target score. Students with intermediate English may need 12-16 weeks, while advanced learners might prepare in 6-8 weeks. Working with a tutor helps you create a realistic timeline based on diagnostic testing and your specific goals, ensuring you're ready when application deadlines arrive.

In a classroom setting, instruction is paced for the average student, which may leave gaps in your understanding or move too slowly for your needs. Personalized tutoring focuses entirely on your weak areas—whether that's mastering specific grammar patterns, improving speaking fluency, or developing test-taking strategies. Your tutor can also adapt practice materials to your interests and learning style, making preparation more efficient and targeted toward your score goal.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment to identify your current level across all four skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking) and understand your target score and timeline. The tutor will discuss your background, academic goals, and any specific challenges you've faced with English. From there, you'll develop a personalized study plan that prioritizes the areas where you'll see the biggest score improvements.

Look for tutors with strong English proficiency, experience teaching TOEFL or English as a second language, and familiarity with the exam format and scoring criteria. Many effective TOEFL tutors have lived or studied abroad, hold teaching certifications (like TESOL or CELTA), and have helped multiple students reach their target scores. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who have proven track records preparing students for standardized English proficiency exams.

With consistent, focused preparation and personalized tutoring, many students see 5-10 point improvements within 4-6 weeks, particularly in speaking and writing where targeted feedback has immediate impact. Larger improvements (15-25 points) typically take 8-12 weeks of dedicated study. Your progress depends on your starting level, how frequently you practice between sessions, and how quickly you apply your tutor's feedback—personalized instruction accelerates all three factors.