Is 100 score level on TOEFL iBT good (For Test Takers)?

TOEFL is an English test that is evaluated by score, not pass or fail. If you are thinking of studying abroad in English-speaking countries such as the United States and Canada, we recommend taking the TOEFL test. Many universities require TOEFL scores to be submitted at the time of application. The required score varies depending on the university, but it is generally said that around 80 points is required.

In this article, I will explain the difficulty level and study method of TOEFL 100 points, which can be aimed at the world's top universities.

What is the English level of TOEFL iBT 100 points?

TOEFL iBT 100 points is an excellent score that is in the top 20% of test takers. Furthermore, if you get 100 points or more, you will be able to apply to world-class schools such as Cambridge University and Harvard University.

It is also used in Japan, as stated in the recruitment information of Ministry of Foreign Affairs staff that "it is recommended to have a score of TOEFL iBT 100 points or higher or IELTS 7.0 or higher". Since the TOEFL score is 120 points, a score of 100 points can be said to have a fairly high level of English proficiency.

Reading

With a TOEFL 100-point level, you can comfortably read specialized English books and treatises. Grammar comprehension is almost no problem, but vocabulary needs to be continued. In particular, technical terms such as those used in university classes and difficult expressions in formal situations may not be fully equipped.

At overseas universities, you will be able to complete many tasks even after enrollment, so earnestly working on your lessons will further strengthen your reading ability.

Listening

With a TOEFL 100-point level, you will have little trouble with everyday conversations with native speakers. If you are accustomed to standard American English, you may be confused by the pronunciation habits of each region, but you can expect some content from the context. In addition, the characteristics of each country/region will naturally become understandable through repeated conversations.

You should be able to hear most of the lectures at your study abroad destination. However, some professors use a lot of jargon and speak fast, so you may need to concentrate on your lessons. In class, you need to be careful not only to listen to English, but also to properly understand the content of the lecture and to put together your own thoughts.

Speaking

With a TOEFL 100-point level, you will have little trouble with everyday conversations with native speakers. Instead of using slang between students forcibly, first be aware of the basic way of speaking. If you prepare in advance for presentations in the lecture, you should be able to handle them without major obstacles.

However, in questions and answers and discussions, there are times when you cannot speak like a native speaker. This is a matter of experience as well as English proficiency. By training to organize your opinions and convey them in appropriate English, you will gradually be able to respond.

Lighting

If you have a TOEFL 100-point level, you should be able to do basic writing without any problems. It also has the power to compose logical sentences. You should also have knowledge of English expressions suitable for university assignments and be able to submit a pass line report.

However, at the university, it may be evaluated side by side with the dissertation created by a native speaker. Since English is not the native language, there may be slight mistakes and differences in feelings, so it may not lead to the evaluation you expected. It is also important to understand the factors behind writing reports that have been rated poorly. You can further improve your writing skills by analyzing the reasons for the low rating and then using it.

How difficult is it to get 100 points for TOEFL iBT?

The TOEFL iBT 100 points are said to be extremely difficult for Japanese people.

According to the data released by the official TOEFL iBT, the average score for Japanese is 72 points. In the same Asian region, China scored 81 points, South Korea scored 83 points, and Taiwan scored 83 points. Singapore has the highest average score of 98 points. In the first place, English education is popular in Singapore, and it is said that 70% of the people can speak regional English called Singlish. Even in Singapore, which has received thorough English education since childhood, the average score does not reach 100 points, which shows the high degree of difficulty.

Converted to TOEIC / Eiken / IELTS

Although it cannot be converted unconditionally because the content of the test is different, the English level of TOEFL iBT 100 points is roughly equivalent to Level 1 in the Eiken test and 900 to 990 points in the TOEIC test. If you get 100 points or more in TOEFL, you will exceed the highest level of Eiken and TOEIC, so there is no value that can be converted.

The table below shows the conversion of IELTS and TOEFL, which were developed by the Cambridge University English Language Testing System in the United Kingdom.

Scenes where 100 TOEFL iBT points are required

If you want to study abroad at a 4th grade university in the United States, you will have more options if you get 70 points or more on the TOEFL iBT. Also, if you exceed 80 points, you can enroll in 77% of universities in the United States. If you get another 100 points, you will be able to apply for the world's top ivy league. The Ivy League is a general term for Harvard University, Yale University, Brown University, Dartmouth University, Cornell University, Pennsylvania University, Princeton University, and Columbia University. Refers to eight prestigious private universities in the northeastern United States.

If you want to go on to a top-notch school such as Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, or Stanford University, you will be required to have a TOEFL iBT score of 100 or higher.

Score distribution & study method to get 100 points with TOEFL iBT

TOEFL iBT has four skills: reading, listening, speaking, and writing, with a maximum of 30 points each. Therefore, 120 points of 4 skills x 30 points will be the perfect score. To get 100 points on the TOEFL iBT, it is recommended to devise strategic measures.

In this chapter, we will introduce the score distribution of reading, listening, speaking and writing, and the study method suitable for each.

Reading score

The goal for a reading score is 27 points or higher. Since English education in Japan emphasizes reading and listening, it is easy to aim for a high score for these two. If you have a solid understanding of grammar and words up to high school English, you will be able to achieve 27 or more with a little TOEFL-specific learning. If you aim for 27 points or more in reading, you need to limit the number of mistakes to 3 or 4 questions or less.

Study method and points when learning

It is recommended that you follow the steps below to learn reading.

1. Work on reading problems specific to TOEFL
2. Thoroughly investigate the structure of words and sentences that you did not understand
3. Readaloud sentences

The point of the strategy is "read carefully". You can get 27 points or more only if you understand it correctly, not "I could imagine the answer somehow and it was almost the correct answer". Acquire the skills to read the details of the problem.

It is also important to focus on the structure of the sentence, not just the words. The longer a sentence, the harder it is to read the structure of the sentence. It would be nice to be able to instantly find the relationship between the subject (S), verb (V), object (O), and complement (C). In step 3 reading aloud, you will not translate English sentences into Japanese, but you will be trained to understand them in English in your head. Reading aloud is directly linked to improving your speaking score.

Listening score

The target listening score is 27 points or higher. As with reading, people with a background in Japanese English education are a skill that is easy to get a high score. Listening skills can be trained not only by listening to TOEFL-related materials, but also by listening to English news and music. Being exposed to English in your area of interest will help keep you motivated to learn. Even if you aim for 27 points or more in listening, you need to limit the number of mistakes to 3 or 4 questions or less.

Study method and points when learning

It is recommended that you follow the steps below to learn listening.

1. Work on TOEFL-specific listening problems
2. Write out
3. Shadowing reproduction

The point of the strategy is "word power". The main reason you can't hear listening in the first place is because you don't understand the meaning of words or collocations. First of all, let's train to write out the contents of listening. If you can't write it out correctly, check it carefully before inputting. By learning antonyms and synonyms at the same time, you can greatly improve your vocabulary.

Shadowing and reproduction are also effective study methods. If you can pronounce it yourself, you will be able to hear it. Shadowing is a vocalization method that follows the sound source steadily, and reproduction is a vocalization method that repeats after listening to the entire sentence. It is generally said that reproduction is more difficult because it requires more accuracy. Work on vocal practice that suits your level while being aware of pronunciation like a native speaker.

Speaking score

Aim for a speaking score of 22 points or higher. It is the lowest score distribution among the four skills. Speaking is also a difficult section for TOEFL test takers to struggle with. Speaking has four tasks, each of which is scored on a scale of four. Converts the average value of 4 tasks x 4 points to a maximum of 30 points. Aim for 4 points for task 1 and 3 points for task 2, which are relatively easy to get a high score. If you can get 3 points for difficult task 3 and 2 points for task 4, you can achieve a score of 22 points.

Study method and points when learning

It is recommended that you learn speaking by following the steps below.

1. Work on TOEFL-specific speaking problems
2. Learn conversation templates
3. Do hands-on training

The only way to improve your speaking score is to practice repeatedly. In particular, Japanese people are not accustomed to speaking English, so let's practice speaking English by referring to model answers. It is also useful to remember templates that are often used in conversation. In hands-on training, talk with TOEFL test takers, take advantage of online English conversation, and incorporate interpersonal communication.

Writing score

Aim for a writing score of 24 points or higher. In Japan, there are many multiple-choice English exams, so many people feel that they are not good at writing. In writing, 2 tasks are scored on a scale of 5 points, and the average value is converted to 30 points. The important things in writing are the amount of characters, composition, and accuracy. Even if the content is simple, you can aim for a high score if these three points are solid.

Study method and points when learning

It is recommended that you learn writing by following the steps below.

1. Work on TOEFL-specific writing problems
2. Strengthen vocabulary and composition
3. Conduct practical training

If you get 4 points or more in each task, you can achieve a score of 24 points or more. To do so, it is necessary to create logical sentences using correct English. First, let's tackle TOEFL-specific issues and train to speedily assemble writing English. In vocabulary, you will learn to use words that are suitable for literary language, not spoken language. Practical training should provide an environment for feedback from native speakers and professional teachers.

Study period and time required to get 100 TOEFL iBT points

The duration of study required to earn a TOEFL iBT 100 score depends on your current level of English. If you are at Eiken Level 2, you can aim for 100 points by continuing studying for 6 hours a day for a year. In some cases, Eiken Level 1 can be achieved in a period of 3 to 4 months. For Eiken 3rd grade and TOEIC 450 points level, continuous study for 2 years or more is required.

However, these times are just a guide. Basically, high school graduation level English proficiency is required, but learning if you make use of individual strengths such as "knowledge of specialized fields matching TOEFL" and "high writing and speaking skills in Japanese" It is also possible to get close to the period. On the other hand, if you do not keep your motivation to learn, it will be difficult to produce results. Let's clarify the purpose of learning and proceed systematically.

Measures to get 100 points with TOEFL iBT

In order to get 100 points on the TOEFL iBT, it is important to study strategically using appropriate teaching materials. Especially for problems that you make a mistake, you need to analyze the reason for the mistake and then take advantage of it. In this chapter, we will introduce effective countermeasures in detail.

Use reference books to lay the foundation for English grammar and English grammar

The TOEFL iBT exam fee is US $ 235 (about 26,869 yen) when you take the exam in Japan, which is higher than other English exams. Also, if you are thinking of studying abroad or getting a job, you will need to make sure that you will achieve results with a single exam.

Choosing a reference book is very important for getting a high score. This chapter introduces recommended teaching materials for English grammar and English grammar that are specialized for the TOEFL test. Use these to lay the foundation for English grammar and English grammar.

Recommended Wordbook (1) Revised New Edition TOEFL TEST Required English Words 5600

The long-selling TOEFL reference book, " Revised New Edition TOEFL TEST Essential English Words 5600 (CD BOOK)," is full of 545 pages. Rather than simply memorizing, you can naturally strengthen your vocabulary while associating the whole, as per the concept of "fixing words from context through listening and reading." We have picked up frequently-used genres, so it is recommended that you thoroughly work on them. It is finished in one book that you can definitely aim for a high score.

Recommended vocabulary (2) TOEFL test with audio DL Single 5000

" TOEFL Test with Audio DL " is the best vocabulary for your first TOEFL test. It is characterized by the fact that you can preferentially learn from important words, and that you can increase your vocabulary efficiently with abundant synonyms. The free audio DL lasts for more than 8 hours and is compatible with both PCs and smartphones. It can be said that it is a word book that is easy to use even in the gap time.

Recommended Grammar Book (1) TOEFL TEST Measures Complete English Grammar

" TOEFL TEST Preparation Complete English Grammar " is a book that I would like to recommend to those who aim for 100 points in TOEFL. Since you can compare mistakes that are easy to make with correct and incorrect example sentences, it is perfect for people who aim for 100 points or more that require a high correct answer rate. Not only can you understand the whole picture of the English structure, but you can also learn how to use it alive. It is also a must read for speaking and writing training.

Recommended Grammar Book (2) TOEFL iBT (R) Test Complete Textbook

The TOEFL iBT (R) test complete textbook, which fully explains effective TOEFL test preparation methods, is practical.

This is a collection of exercises. In particular, the writing commentary from a native perspective by the English correction service "English flight" is a must-see. If you can get a high score with writing that Japanese people are not good at, 100 points will be much closer. This book aims to achieve maximum results with short-term measures.

Analyze the reason why you made a mistake

For the wrong problem, it is important to analyze the reason for the mistake. By grasping the tendency of mistakes, it becomes easier to see what you are not good at.

・ I didn't understand the meaning of the word
・ I couldn't understand the composition of the sentence (subject, verb, object) correctly
・ I didn't have enough time

If you don't understand the meaning of a word, you need to improve your vocabulary. If you do not understand the composition of sentences, acquire grammatical skills equivalent to high school graduation. If you don't have enough time, it is important to complete the number of exercises and get used to the speed. Do not focus only on the correctness, but let's proceed with learning after firmly recognizing the background of the mistake.

Get used to the TOEFL test such as question format and time allocation

Each English test has its own characteristics. TOEFL iBT is often used in English-speaking university admissions, so academic content tends to be preferred. A wide range of subjects such as natural science, history, and cultural arts are dealt with, and general education is required as well as English proficiency.

It is important to understand this type of question and to allocate time for each skill, such as reading, listening, speaking, and writing. The TOEFL score is also an index to measure whether you can spend your study abroad life without any problems. It can be said that practical training in English conversation classes is indispensable as well as improving English proficiency with reference books and self-study.

Recommended teaching materials in a mock exam format (1) Official TOEFL iBT Tests

" Official TOEFL iBT Tests " are official TOEFL iBT tests. Five TOEFL tests are posted, with explanations such as answer tips. Knowing the question format and scoring points is the first step towards a high score. It can be said that it is a simulated teaching material that you definitely want to keep in mind with reference books. It was released in 2020, and it is also a big attraction to be able to grasp the latest official trends.

Recommended teaching materials in mock exam format (2) TOEFL iBT (R) test online mock exam TOEFL iBT (R) Complete Practice Test

TOEFL has an official online shop operated by the Japan Secretariat. Among them, I would especially like to recommend " TOEFL iBT Complete Practice Test is an online mock test that you can do at home in the same format as the actual test. Scores are also available! "is. The biggest feature is that you can perform the same online operation as the actual one, and even the score can be calculated by automatic scoring. It's the fastest way to get acquainted with the TOEFL iBT test, and it's also a good way to understand your abilities. Don't forget to review your answer using the Review function. It's an online mock exam that you can do at home, and there are discounts for multiple purchases, so you may want to try it several times.