Frequently Asked Questions

What is the TOEFL® test?
Who should take the TOEFL® test?
Can I prepare for TOEFL® at your school?
How much time will I need to prepare for the test?
Can I write the TOEFL® test at your school?
What is the deadline for registering for the TOEFL® Preparation Course?
Where can I get the course outline and syllabus?
Will materials be provided for me?
Can I purchase the course book?
Is there a minimum level requirement to enrol for the Preparation Course?
Can I still enrol in the Preparation Course if I do not meet the minimum level requirement?
Will I receive a certificate?

What is the TOEFL test?

TOEFL stands for Test Of English as a Foreign Language. It is a standardized English proficiency test for speakers of English as a Second Language. The TOEFL test is used by North American universities and colleges to determine a candidate’s English proficiency level. For full details and up-to-date information on TOEFL, please visit: http://www.ets.org/toefl
Who should take the TOEFL Test?

Almost all universities and colleges in North America use the TOEFL test to determine if foreign students are eligible to study at their institution. Many businesses and government agencies also use the test as proof of English ability. TOEFL has, therefore, become one of the most recognized standardized English tests in the world. Anyone whose current or future education plan includes studying in an English speaking university or college should write the TOEFL test.
Can I prepare for the TOEFL Test at your school?

Yes. The TOEFL preparation course is offered full-time all year round and part-time on select dates. For complete details, please visit us at: http://www.sol-group.net/languagecourses/toefl.php
How much time will I need to prepare for the test?

The need for a high score on the TOEFL test is universal. Undergraduate programs require an iBT score from 80-100 and graduate courses require a minimum iBT score from 90-100 or higher. These high scores can seem difficult to attain, however, one of the best ways to improve your score is to set aside a certain amount of study time. TOEFL is NOT a test that you can write without preparation.

The average length of study for a TOEFL course is 2 months. Many students take a preparation course for two months and then work on their own for the last month before the test. Candidates who combine class time with self-study obtain significantly higher scores.
Can I write the TOEFL test at your school?

No. International House Toronto is not a recognized TOEFL test centre. For information on test dates and prices, please visit: http://www.ets.org/Media/Tests/TOEFL/tclists/IBT_a.html.
What is the deadline for registering for the TOEFL Preparation Course?

Students can register at any time. It is recommended that registration take place a minimum of one week in advance of the start date, in order to ensure that a space is reserved for you.
Where can I get the course outline and syllabus?

All students will receive both a course outline and syllabus on their first day of class.
Will materials be provided for me?

Yes. Your Registration fee includes the use of the course book (in class only), all course handouts and mock exams.
Can I purchase the course book?

Yes. Gently used course books are available for sale to students at a discounted rate or at the regular retail rate for new books.
Is there a minimum level requirement to enrol for the Preparation Course?

Yes. We highly recommend that students score a minimum level 5 on our online test. To take the online test, please visit us at: http://www.sol-group.net/test/.
Can I still enrol in the Preparation Course if I do not meet the minimum level requirement?

Yes. However, please note that our minimum start level recommendation is 5. Students starting at a lower level may not achieve their desired score on the exam. We encourage you to register for our general English language programs, prior to enrolling in the TOEFL preparation class, until the recommended level is achieved.
Will I receive a certificate?

Yes. Once you have completed the preparation course, you will be awarded the Sol Schools International House certificate. For information on the TOEFL exam scores reporting, please visit: http://www.ets.org/toefl/ibt/scores/