Top 7 Online TOEFL Courses for 2024 Success

Achieving the TOEFL score you desire is crucial for gaining admission to your dream college or university. Therefore, thorough preparation is key to reaching your goals.

Enrolling in a TOEFL course or working with a specialized tutor is one of the most effective ways to enhance your English proficiency and boost your confidence for the exam. In this article, we will delve into various websites offering TOEFL preparation courses, examining their pricing, features, and the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

LingualNeeds: 1-on-1 TOEFL tutoring 

Price

From $10 per hour

Features

LingualNeeds boasts a network of over 1,200 specialized tutors dedicated to TOEFL preparation. What sets LingualNeeds apart from traditional prep courses is the personalized approach: your tutor will customize a learning plan specifically for you. While many programs follow a rigid curriculum that may not address your unique strengths and weaknesses, LingualNeeds allows you to work with a tutor who truly understands your individual learning needs.

If you excel at listening but want to enhance your speaking or writing skills, your tutor is here to support you. Before your first lesson, discuss your objectives with them, and they will tailor a personalized plan to help you reach your goals effectively.

Explore our extensive selection of 1,200 tutors and refine your search based on factors such as price, availability, and ratings to discover the ideal match for your learning preferences. Try a trial lesson, and if it doesn’t meet your expectations, you can easily switch to a different tutor at no extra cost or receive a full refund.

With LingualNeeds, you not only receive personalized 1-on-1 tutoring tailored to your unique learning style, but you also gain access to a rich library of self-study resources. This extensive collection covers a variety of topics, including grammar, pronunciation, and common errors, allowing you to deepen your understanding and review what you’ve learned with your tutor in your next session.

A recent survey of LingualNeeds students revealed that an impressive 83% believe that working with a LingualNeeds tutor is the most effective method to reach their goals. If you’re seeking the ideal way to prepare for your TOEFL exam, you’ve just found it!

Pros

• Affordable, 1-on-1 TOEFL tutoring
• Large library of self-study materials

Cons

• It’s not free

Udemy

Price

Ranging from $14.99 – $99.99 per course

Features

Udemy is a popular online learning platform offering an impressive selection of over 130,000 courses, including a variety of TOEFL preparation options. Each TOEFL course is crafted by different instructors, providing a diverse range of teaching styles, course lengths, and subject matter. This means you can tailor your study experience to best suit your learning preferences and needs.

Udemy courses consist of pre-recorded lessons, which means you can access valuable content at your convenience. However, one downside is that if you encounter difficulties, you won’t have the opportunity to ask the instructor questions or receive personalized feedback on your speaking or writing abilities.

Pros

• Range of TOEFL courses available

Cons

• Course qualities vary
• No way to ask questions

Edx

Price 

$49

Features

The EdX course, “TOEFL® Test Preparation: The Insider’s Guide,” offers a flexible, self-paced learning experience that you can tailor to your schedule. This comprehensive program covers all four sections of the TOEFL iBT test—Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Additionally, you’ll find valuable tips on how to successfully register for the TOEFL exam, ensuring you’re fully prepared for test day.

Students engage with this comprehensive course by watching videos that cover essential TOEFL exam topics, complemented by practice exercises graded by EdX instructors. Spanning six weeks, the course requires a commitment of 2-4 hours of study each week. For those looking for a budget-friendly option, a free version is available, though it offers limited resources.

Pros

• Good price for the length of the course

Cons

• Free version is limited

Magoosh

Price 

• $109 for 1-month access
• $129 for 6-month access

Features

Magoosh provides comprehensive online preparation courses and resources for key exams such as the SAT, ACT, GRE, and TOEFL. Their TOEFL Online Test Prep course features a blend of engaging video lessons, detailed explanations, and a wealth of practice questions, all accessible through a subscription.

The course offers a variety of lessons and explanations organized by topic, allowing you to explore everything from fundamental English grammar to targeted TOEFL strategies. If you’re new to the TOEFL, the practice tests will be invaluable for your preparation. However, it’s important to note that direct interaction with Magoosh tutors is limited during the course.

The 1 Month Premium subscription allows you to submit a single writing assessment, which will be evaluated by a Magoosh tutor. However, please note that this subscription does not include the ability to ask questions or engage in speaking practice with a tutor.

Pros

• Writing assessment included in subscriptions

Cons

• No direct contact with a tutor

Kaplan

Price 

$349

Features

Kaplan is a leading for-profit educational platform that provides a range of services, with a strong emphasis on test preparation. Their TOEFL iBT test prep course spans three months and allows students to learn at their own pace, making it a flexible option for those looking to excel in the exam.

The course primarily consists of video lessons that thoroughly cover all aspects of English tested in the TOEFL exam. Additionally, Kaplan offers four practice exams evaluated by instructors, providing feedback specifically on writing samples. Unfortunately, this feedback does not extend to speaking, listening, or reading sections.

When you enroll, you’ll gain access to a comprehensive course book featuring 100 practice problems closely mirroring those found in the TOEFL exam. While this course is among the pricier options online, it shares a common limitation with many others: there are no opportunities to interact with instructors or practice the speaking section of the test.

Pros

• Physical course textbook

Cons

• Expensive
• No direct contact with a tutor

Best My Test

Price 

• 7 days – $39
• 1 month – $69
• 1 year – $219

Features

Best My Test offers comprehensive preparation courses for the TOEIC, IELTS, and TOEFL exams. The TOEFL Tutor course is particularly robust, featuring over 1,000 practice questions, 20 full-length practice tests, and an extensive library of video lessons to enhance your learning experience.

The website offers comprehensive coverage of all TOEFL exam sections, making it simple to locate specific practice materials. Additionally, you can take sample tests to identify your strengths and weaknesses across different areas, helping you focus your study efforts effectively.

While Best My Test may not be a household name in test preparation, it offers several advantages for learners. However, one notable limitation is the lack of direct interaction with instructors. This means that if you find yourself struggling with a specific topic or wish to engage in realistic speaking practice before your exam, you won’t have that opportunity with Best My Test.

Pros

• Lots of practice tests available
• Free 1-week trial

Cons

• No direct contact with a tutor

E2 Language 

Price 

$52.90 – $304.90

Features

The E2 Language TOEFL preparation course offers an extensive array of resources, including engaging video grammar lessons, personalized speaking assessments, and one-on-one tutoring sessions. It’s important to note, though, that access to all these features may vary among participants.

Opting for the “Express Package,” starting at just $52.90, is ideal for motivated self-learners. This package includes pre-recorded video classes and a set of practice questions to guide your studies. Alternatively, the “Medal Package,” beginning at $142.90, offers a more comprehensive experience. With this package, you’ll benefit from at least one tutoring session, along with practice questions, recorded classes, and mock tests complete with feedback to enhance your learning.

This package may seem appealing at first glance, but it comes with a hefty price tag for just a single 45-minute tutoring session. If you’re seeking more affordable alternatives, consider self-study resources or other tutoring options that offer multiple sessions for a similar cost.

Pros

• Lots of features are available

Cons

• Full access is expensive

TOEFL courses to avoid

TestDen

TestDen presents itself as a resource for TOEFL courses, claiming to cover every facet of the exam, including grammar, vocabulary, listening, and reading comprehension. However, upon a closer examination of the site, we suggest exploring alternative options for your preparation needs.

TestDen offers a few free practice resources, but their usability leaves much to be desired. While you can opt for their TOEFL training course for $99, we advise against it due to a lack of transparency regarding course content and benefits. The alternatives we’ve mentioned earlier provide far superior options for your preparation.

What is TOEFL?

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a vital assessment for non-native English speakers seeking admission to higher education institutions. This computer-based exam comprises four key sections: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking, each contributing up to 30 points. Your total score, calculated from the combined performance in all sections, is then converted to a scale ranging from 0 to 100.

The TOEFL does not have a standardized passing score; instead, individual universities and colleges establish their own score requirements. While some institutions may accept a minimum score of 60, others may expect applicants to achieve scores in the 70s or even the 80s.

The difference between TOEFL and IELTS

TOEFL and IELTS are two of the leading English proficiency tests, each designed to assess your skills in reading, listening, speaking, and writing. While their content is quite similar, they serve different purposes: TOEFL is often preferred for academic settings, particularly in the U.S., whereas IELTS is commonly required for applications to universities in the UK and other countries.

The TOEFL is primarily utilized for university applications, particularly in the United States, as it focuses on assessing English proficiency in an academic context. However, it may not always be recognized for job applications or immigration processes. In contrast, the IELTS offers both ‘general’ and ‘academic’ versions, making it a versatile choice for education, employment, and immigration needs.

Before applying, it’s crucial to verify which test the institution prefers. While TOEFL has historically been associated with academic settings, a growing number of organizations are now accepting both TOEFL and IELTS.

Why choose an online TOEFL preparation course?

Preparing for the TOEFL exam online offers numerous advantages compared to traditional language schools or in-person tutoring. Let’s explore these benefits in greater detail:

Convenience and flexibility

With online courses, you have the freedom to decide when and where you study, making it easier to fit learning into your busy schedule. This flexibility is especially beneficial if you have a job or other responsibilities that make a fixed weekly time slot impractical.

Online study offers the flexibility to schedule your lessons at your convenience, allowing you to optimize your time and prepare effectively for your exam.

It’s effective

Learning English online is highly effective, particularly when you opt for personalized 1-on-1 lessons with a tutor. This approach allows you to find an expert who focuses on your specific weaknesses, ensuring targeted improvement. In contrast, traditional language schools and fixed courses often require you to adhere to a standard curriculum, which may not address your individual needs or make the best use of your time.

Online tutoring offers you the opportunity to communicate your specific needs directly to your tutor, who will then design a personalized learning plan tailored just for you.

Preparation is key

Preparing for the TOEFL on your own can be challenging, but enrolling in a prep course or taking lessons can make a world of difference. These resources provide valuable practice and help boost your confidence, significantly improving your chances of achieving a high score. In the long run, this investment can also save you money by reducing the need for retakes.

Investing in test preparation before taking the TOEFL can save you time and money in the long run. Instead of facing the frustration of retaking the exam multiple times due to inadequate preparation, consider dedicating effort upfront. Remember, the TOEFL costs around $200, varying by location, and there are no discounts for retakes. Make your first attempt count!

Online TOEFL courses: Conclusion

TOEFL prep courses are an excellent way to gear up for exam day, helping you understand the test’s format and the types of questions you’ll encounter. Beyond providing free online practice tests and self-study materials, these courses offer invaluable support that can significantly enhance your confidence as you prepare.

Achieving your desired test score is most successful when you prepare with a skilled TOEFL tutor from LingualNeeds. By working with a real tutor, you’ll receive personalized attention that identifies your strengths and weaknesses, allowing them to tailor lessons specifically to your needs.