Top TOEFL iBT® Listening Strategies for Non-Native English Speakers

Preparing for TOEFL iBT®  Listening can be a tough task, especially for non-native English speakers. This section is designed to help assess your ability to comprehend spoken English in academic settings, including lectures and conversations. 

In this article, we have outlined essential listening strategies for non-native speakers along with a list of preparation resources.   

What is the TOEFL Listening Section? 

The TOEFL listening section is designed to evaluate your ability to understand spoken English in academic settings. The test includes 

• Listening to conversations and lectures: You’ll get to hear various audio clips that will stimulate real-life university scenarios.   

• Content Structure: The content structure features three lectures (3-5 minutes each), two conversations (approximately 3 minutes each), and have total of 28- 29 questions in total.   

• Skills Assessed:  You will get tested on your comprehension of main ideas, details, speaker attitudes, and the ability to connect information. 

For insights into common myths and misconceptions about the TOEFL listening section, read our TOEFL Listening Section Myths and Misconceptions. 

Top TOEFL Listening Strategies for Non-Native English Speakers 

1. Adjust to Different Accents 

 Get used to various English accents like American, British, and Australian as the TOEFL Listening section includes diverse speakers. This exposure will increase your understanding and adaptability.

2. Use Diverse Real-Life Resources 

Familiarize yourself with a variety of English audio materials to improve your listening skills 

• Podcasts and Radio Shows: Listen to podcasts and radio shows on various topics to enhance vocabulary and comprehension. 

• Academic Content: Academic content like TED Talks and university lectures reflects the TOEFL environment which helps you adapt to academic language easily. 

• Movies & TV Shows: Movies and TV shows can improve your understanding of context, slang, and idiomatic expressions. 

3. Practice under revitalized exam conditions: Mimick test conditions during practice sessions. Set a timer and practice in a quiet environment. 

4. Try to predict content before listening: Before listening to an audio clip, read any accompanying questions or prompts. This strategy helps you predict key topics and content, and focus on relevant information. 

5. Pay Attention to Single Words: Closely listen for specific words or phrases that signal important points or transitions. This can help you capture essential details that you can draft in your notes.  

6. Be an Active Listener: Engage actively with the audio by asking yourself questions about what you hear. This approach helps maintain focus and improves retention. 

7. Take Notes: Develop efficient note-taking strategies: 

• Focus on main ideas, supporting details, and key terms.

• Use abbreviations or symbols to jot down information quickly.

8. Incorporate Shadowing Techniques: The shadowing technique is repeating what you hear almost simultaneously. This technique will improve listening comprehension and pronunciation skills.

For solutions to common challenges in the listening section, explore our article on Common Challenges in TOEFL Listening Section and How to Overcome Them. 

Non-Native Speakers Preparation Resources 

1. Official TOEFL Resources 

• TOEFL iBT Practice Test: Familiarize yourself with the test format through practice test  

• TOEFL Practice Online (PTO): Maintain access to real past TOEFL questions for authentic practice. 

• Guide to TOEFL Test: A comprehensive resource with questions and preparation tips. 

2. Online Courses & Tutors 

• Edx & Coursera: This online education providing service offers specialized TOEFL preparation courses covering all test sections.

• Private Tutors: Hire a tutor who has exceptional skills in TOEFL preparation for personalized guidance.  

3. Language Learning Apps

• Duolingo: Gamify your lessons, this will focus on improving general English skills  

• Magoosh TOEFL:  Mangoosh TOEFL has practice questions and study plans specifically for the TOEFL exam. 

• Quizlet: The Quizlet app is useful for vocabulary building with flashcards and interactive games. 

4. Free Online Resources

• BBC Learning English:  The BBC Learning English offers video lessons, quizzes, and articles to improve your listening, speaking, and vocabulary skills.

• Dave’s ESL Cafe:  Online Resources with quizzes, grammar explanations, and resources for both students and teachers.

• VOA English:  VOA English is a Multimedia news source that helps learners improve their listening skills and keep up with current events.  

5. Join Study Groups:  Collaborate with your peers who are preparing for your TOEFL Score and form a study group or join study partners.   

This was our article on Top TOEFL listening strategies for non-native English speakers.

For additional guidance on avoiding common mistakes, don’t miss our blog on Common Mistakes to Avoid in the TOEFL Listening Section. 

In conclusion, By incorporating these strategies and utilizing these resources, non-native speakers can effectively prepare for the TOEFL  Listening section and improve their overall English proficiency.   

Also Read: 

• TOEFL iBT® Cut-Off for Top UK Universities 
• TOEFL iBT® Cut-off for Top USA Universities  
• TOEFL iBT® Cut-Off 2025 for Top Australian Universities