How to Practice TOEFL iBT® with a Speaking Partner Online

Practicing for the TOEFL speaking section can feel overwhelming, especially when you're doing it alone. One of the most effective ways to improve fluency, confidence, and real-time communication is by working with a partner. A speaking partner helps simulate real conversations, correct your mistakes, and offer constructive feedback.It turns practice into a more enjoyable and engaging experience, helping you grow faster.

Let’s explore how to practice TOEFL with a speaking partner online and boost your performance the smart way.

Top Apps and Platforms to Find a TOEFL Speaking Partner Online

Finding the right speaking partner is easier than ever with platforms designed specifically for language exchange and TOEFL Speaking iBT prep. These tools connect you with learners and tutors worldwide so you can practice TOEFL with a speaking partner online anytime, anywhere.

1. Tandem

Tandem is a free language exchange app that connects you with people around the world who want to learn and practice different languages. You can filter partners based on your target language, goals, and even interests. It's a great place to practice TOEFL with a speaking partner online, especially if you're looking for casual conversation to improve fluency.

2. HelloTalk

HelloTalk works similarly to Tandem but focuses more on messaging, voice notes, and calls. You can correct each other's sentences, send recordings, and ask questions instantly. It's perfect if you're shy about live video calls and want to slowly build confidence before jumping into real-time TOEFL speaking practice.

3. SPEAKY

Speaky is a user-friendly platform that matches you with language learners worldwide. It offers text, audio, and video communication options. Many users are also TOEFL aspirants, making it easier to find someone on the same journey to practice TOEFL with a speaking partner online who understands the format and pressure.

4. Cambly

Cambly connects you with native English-speaking tutors 24/7. It’s a paid app, but the feedback is highly personalized. You can choose tutors who specialize in TOEFL prep and schedule focused speaking sessions. If you're serious about improvement and want expert guidance, this platform is highly recommended.

5. iTalki

iTalki offers both professional teachers and community tutors. You can book 1-on-1 lessons or find speaking partners for free. It's flexible and tailored, so you can focus on specific TOEFL tasks and vocabulary. This is one of the best platforms to practice TOEFL with a speaking partner online while getting real-time corrections and suggestions.

6. Reddit (r/Language_Exchange & r/TOEFL)

Not an app, but these Reddit communities are great for finding study partners who are preparing for TOEFL too. You can post your availability or respond to others looking for partners. It’s informal but effective, especially if you prefer coordinating sessions via Zoom or Skype.

How to Practice TOEFL with a Speaking Partner Online

Here’s how you can practice TOEFL with a speaking partner online in simple, effective steps: 

Step 1: Set Clear Goals Together

Start by discussing your goals with your partner. You might want to focus on fluency, pronunciation, or answering specific tasks like Task 1 or Task 2. Align your plans to make sessions more focused.

Step 2: Choose the Right Platform

Pick a platform that both of you find easy to use, like Zoom, WhatsApp, Google Meet, HelloTalk, or Tandem. Make sure it supports clear audio or video, so you can hear each other well. If you're not ready for live calls, voice notes are also a great way to start.

Step 3: Use Real TOEFL Prompts

Practice using actual TOEFL-style questions. Take turns asking and answering them. Set a timer to stick to the test format.

Example: “Some people prefer to study in the morning, others in the evening. Which do you prefer and why?”

Step 4: Record and Review Your Answers

After each session, record and listen to your answers. This helps you find mistakes in grammar, pronunciation, or clarity. Ask your partner to give honest feedback. Improvement comes from noticing what you didn’t realize before.

Step 5: Give and Receive Useful Feedback

Use basic TOEFL scoring points like fluency, vocabulary, and organization. Keep your feedback supportive and clear.

Step 6: Take Turns Being the Speaker and Listener

Sometimes, act as the examiner and listen to your partner. This teaches you what strong answers sound like and how to evaluate responses. It also helps you understand what the TOEFL raters may look for.

Step 7: Stay Consistent with a Plan

Practicing regularly matters more than practicing perfectly. Make a plan to meet 3–4 times a week, even if just for 15 minutes. Track the topics you cover, words you learn, and tips you receive. This keeps your progress visible and motivating.

Practicing with a partner is one of the most effective ways to improve your speaking skills for TOEFL. When you practice TOEFL with a speaking partner online, you create a space for real-time feedback, confidence-building, and consistent progress. Stay committed, keep your sessions focused, and you’ll notice the difference in both your fluency and your scores.

Additional Reads:

• How Watching Debate Shows Can Improve TOEFL Speaking Task 2
• Practice TOEFL Speaking by Recreating Movie Scenes in English
• How Watching Sports Commentary Can Improve TOEFL Listening and Speaking
• How to Avoid Repetition in TOEFL Speaking Responses
• How to Beat Blank Mind Moments in TOEFL Speaking
• How to Turn ChatGPT into Your TOEFL Speaking Practice Partner
• Most Mispronounced Words in TOEFL Speaking (with Fixes)