How to Build a 3-Month TOEFL iBT® Study Plan for Beginners

"This plan offers a structured approach to TOEFL preparation over 3 months. It includes weekly goals, skill-specific tasks, and resources to help you improve steadily. Everything is broken down to keep your study routine effective and stress-free."
Key Highlights
Getting ready for the TOEFL might feel a bit overwhelming at first, but with the right plan, it becomes much more manageable. A well-paced 3-month TOEFL study plan can help you build confidence, improve steadily, and stay motivated throughout. If you're just starting out, this TOEFL study plan for beginners breaks things down into simple steps so you don’t feel lost. Let’s explore how you can prepare in a way that actually works for you.
How to Build a 3-Month TOEFL Study Plan for Beginners
Here are the steps to help you build a 3-month TOEFL study plan for beginners that is simple, effective, and easy to follow:
Step 1: Understand the TOEFL Test Format:
Before diving into any preparation, it's important to know what the test includes. The TOEFL iBT has four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Knowing the structure helps you plan your time better.
Section |
Time Limit |
Number of Questions |
Skills Tested |
Reading |
35 minutes |
20 questions |
Understanding academic texts |
Listening |
36 minutes |
28 questions |
Listening to lectures & conversations |
Speaking |
16 minutes |
4 tasks |
Expressing your opinion clearly |
Writing |
29 minutes |
2 tasks |
Writing essays in English |
Tip: Watch short YouTube videos or take free practice tests to familiarize yourself.
Step 2: Set Realistic Weekly Goals:
A TOEFL preparation plan for 3 months works best when it's broken into small goals. Avoid cramming everything at once. Here’s a sample structure:
Month |
Focus Area |
Goal |
Month 1 |
Basics + Familiarity |
Understand each section, build vocabulary |
Month 2 |
Skill Improvement + Practice |
Practice questions, improve timing |
Month 3 |
Mock Tests + Review Weaknesses |
Simulate real tests, fix mistakes |
Tip: Set a study goal of 1.5–2 hours daily, 5–6 days a week.
Step 3: Build a Weekly TOEFL Study Schedule:
Here’s an easy weekly template to start with. This can be adjusted based on your speed and availability.
Day |
Focus Area |
What to Do |
Monday |
TOEFL Reading |
Read a passage + answer 5–10 questions |
Tuesday |
TOEFL Listening |
Listen to a lecture or podcast + take notes |
Wednesday |
TOEFL Speaking |
Practice 2 speaking tasks + record yourself |
Thursday |
TOEFL Writing |
Write one essay + revise |
Friday |
Vocabulary + Grammar |
Learn 10 new words + grammar practice |
Saturday |
Mixed Practice |
Take a small mock or do 1 task from each section |
Sunday |
Review + Rest |
Go over mistakes, relax your mind |
Tip: Keep a notebook to track progress and new vocabulary.
Step 4: Use Beginner-Friendly TOEFL Resources:
You don’t need expensive material. For a TOEFL study plan for beginners, free and simple resources can work great:
Skill |
Resource Name |
Type |
Reading |
TOEFL Reading Samples (ETS website) |
Practice texts |
Listening |
BBC Learning English, TED-Ed |
Audio/video |
Speaking |
TOEFL Speaking Simulator, ELSA app |
Speaking tools |
Writing |
Grammarly, TOEFL Writing Templates |
Essay writing |
Tip: Use flashcards (like Quizlet) to remember vocabulary and phrases.
Step 5: Take Practice Tests Every Two Weeks
Testing yourself regularly is key. It helps you understand timing, pressure, and what needs improvement.
- Begin with section-wise tests in Month 1.
- Take full-length practice tests in Months 2 and 3.
- Time yourself strictly.
- Review every mistake and note why it happened.
Looking to improve your TOEFL score? |
Step 6: Focus More on Weak Areas in Month 3:
By now, you’ll know your strong and weak points. The final month of your 3-month TOEFL study plan should focus on polishing those weak skills.
Section |
What to Fix |
Reading |
Skimming techniques, main idea focus |
Listening |
Concentration, note-taking speed |
Speaking |
Clarity, confidence, vocabulary |
Writing |
Grammar, structure, word choice |
Tip: Ask a friend or mentor to evaluate your speaking or writing.
Step 7: Take Care of Yourself:
Preparing for TOEFL isn’t just about studying hard. It's about staying fresh and focused.
- Sleep at least 7–8 hours daily.
- Take short breaks while studying.
- Stay motivated with small rewards after completing goals.
- Remind yourself why you’re taking the test.
With the right structure and mindset, a 3-month TOEFL study plan for beginners can turn your dream score into reality. Stay consistent, stay positive, and believe in your progress. Let’s explore how you can apply these steps and succeed with confidence!
Additional Resources:
- Best Subreddits and Forums to Discuss TOEFL in 2025
- Create Your Own TOEFL Question Bank with Google Sheets
- How to Turn Your Daily Journal into a TOEFL Writing Practice Tool
- How to Practice TOEFL with a Speaking Partner Online
- Boost Your TOEFL Reading Speed Using Manga and Webtoons
- Creating a 7-Day Crash Course Plan for TOEFL at Home
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