TOEFL Frequently Asked Questions

Does TCC use the TOEFL for Placement?

Students must provide evidence of English Language proficiency if their native language is not English. The requirement may be satisfied by providing proof of one of the following regarding TOEFL:

79-80 on the iBT 213 on the Computer based TOEFL 550 on the Paper TOEFL

A student with TOEFL score lower than those listed above must take the ESL Placement Test at the Testing Center. They must then complete the ESL classes before enrolling in regular classes.

Do TCC ESL Students need a TOEFL Score?

ESL students who intend to study at TCC - either an Associates Degree or pursue a Career and Technical Program – do not need the TOEFL score. Successful completion of the ESL classes is the prerequisite for regular classes. Students go directly from ESL 13/17 to ENG 111 and those other courses required by the student’s selected program of study.

Which TCC Students need the TOEFL Test?

TCC ESL students who already have their undergraduate degree and plan to transfer to a university to pursue graduate work in the US.

Must I be a TCC Student to take the TOEFL Prep Course?

A student does not need to enrolled in the ESL program to take the TOEFL Prep course. This course is open enrollment for any one from the community. However, the TOEFL Prep course does not count towards a student’ s full time credit hours.

Which TCC Students can take the TOEFL Prep Course?

TCC ESL faculty highly recommend that students not enroll in the TOEFL Prep course until they have reached the Bridge level of the TCC ESL program. Once a student is in ESL 13 and/or ESL 17, they have the skills to be successful with the TOEFL test. TOEFL Prep does not teach language skills. The TOEFL Prep course teaches test-taking strategies and affords students the opportunity to practice these strategies; through this process a student can use all of their knowledge of English to achieve a score that correctly reflects their language abilities.

How Much does the Course Cost?

The TOEFL Prep course costs $250 , and this price includes the textbook. The course runs eight weeks, not sixteen weeks, The first section will run the first eight weeks of the semester, and the second section will run the last eight weeks of the semester

How do I Register?

Students must complete a registration form and send payment by check or credit card to the TCC Workforce Development in Norfolk. Student may also fill out the registration form and fax this to the Workforce Development office. For more information about registration, please call 757-822-1234.

When is the Course Taught?

This course will be offered this fall on the Virginia Beach campus. The class will meet on Saturdays from 9:00 – 11:40. The class will be taught in the ESL Lab, so that students will have the opportunity to complete practice exercises on the computer under the guidance of their instructor.