Top-Ranked TOEFL Practice Tools: 15 Providers You Can Count On

Introduction to TOEFL and Its Purpose

Understanding the TOEFL

The Test of English as a Foreign Language, widely referred to as TOEFL, is a globally recognized standardized test designed to assess the English language proficiency of individuals whose native language is not English. Administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), the TOEFL is primarily used to evaluate the ability of non-native speakers to use and understand English in academic settings. It plays a significant role in higher education admissions and professional certification processes around the world.

Introduced in 1964, the TOEFL was developed in response to the growing number of international students applying to universities in the United States. These institutions needed a reliable tool to evaluate applicants’ ability to perform academic tasks in English. Over the decades, the TOEFL has evolved to meet the changing needs of academic institutions and test-takers, and today it is accepted by over 11,000 universities, colleges, and agencies in more than 150 countries.

Why the TOEFL Was Created

The creation of the TOEFL was driven by the increasing globalization of higher education. As more students from non-English-speaking countries sought admission to American universities, it became necessary to establish a standardized assessment tool to determine whether these students had the required English proficiency to succeed academically. Before TOEFL, there was no consistent way to measure the academic language skills of international applicants, leading to varying admission standards and performance outcomes.

ETS, a private non-profit organization based in the United States, developed the TOEFL to provide a uniform benchmark that could be applied across institutions. The goal was to ensure that students had the reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills necessary to participate effectively in university-level courses. The test was designed to be academically focused, with content and question formats that reflect the kinds of tasks students encounter in real classroom settings.

The Global Impact of TOEFL

Over time, the TOEFL has become more than just a U.S.-centric exam. It is now a vital requirement for students aiming to study in English-speaking countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as in many European and Asian countries where English is the language of instruction in higher education. This global acceptance is a testament to the test’s reliability, fairness, and academic relevance.

In addition to its use in admissions, TOEFL scores are also utilized in various other contexts. Immigration authorities may require them for visa applications, especially for skilled migrants or those enrolling in educational programs. Professional licensing boards in fields such as medicine, nursing, and engineering may also request TOEFL scores to verify English proficiency. In the job market, some employers require TOEFL results to ensure candidates can communicate effectively in English in professional settings.

TOEFL’s Role in Academic Success

Academic success in an English-speaking environment depends on more than just basic language knowledge. Students must be able to read complex texts, understand lectures, participate in discussions, and write essays. TOEFL is specifically designed to assess these academic language skills.

The test challenges students to perform tasks that mirror real academic scenarios. For example, reading passages resemble university-level textbooks, listening tasks replicate classroom lectures, and writing prompts require essay-style responses. This alignment with academic tasks makes the TOEFL a useful predictor of how well students will perform once they are admitted to a university or college.

Furthermore, TOEFL preparation itself is a learning process. Studying for the test helps students improve their academic English in a structured way. It builds vocabulary, strengthens grammar, and enhances the ability to express ideas clearly and logically. These skills not only contribute to better test scores but also support long-term academic achievement.

Types of Institutions That Accept the EFL

TOEFL is accepted by a wide range of institutions worldwide. These include:

• Universities and colleges offering undergraduate and graduate programs 
• Business schools and law schools 
• Scholarship and exchange programs 
• Professional licensing bodies 
• Government immigration agencies 
• Secondary schools and preparatory academies 

Because the test is standardized and objective, it provides institutions with a consistent way to compare applicants from different countries and educational backgrounds. A TOEFL score represents more than just language knowledge—it reflects the ability to function in an academic environment where English is the medium of instruction.

Who Should Take the TOEFL?

The TOEFL is intended for non-native English speakers who plan to study, work, or migrate to an English-speaking country. It is suitable for:

• High school graduates applying for undergraduate programs 
• College graduates applying for master’s or doctoral programs 
• Professionals seeking licensing or certification in English-speaking regions 
• Individuals applying for immigration or work visas that require proof of language proficiency 

Many test-takers are students who have studied English as a second language for several years. However, even fluent English speakers often need to take the TOEFL to meet institutional or governmental requirements. This is because TOEFL does not just test conversational English—it assesses academic language, which includes specialized vocabulary, complex grammar, and critical thinking skills.

Academic and Professional Benefits of a Good TOEFL Score

Scoring well on the TOEFL opens many doors. For academic applicants, a strong score increases the chances of admission to competitive programs. Many top universities have minimum TOEFL requirements, and applicants with high scores may be favored for scholarships, assistantships, and research opportunities.

Professionally, a good TOEFL score can enhance a resume and demonstrate a candidate’s readiness to work in an international environment. For those seeking licensing or registration in fields like healthcare or engineering, the TOEFL may be a prerequisite for approval.

TOEFL scores are also valuable for personal development. Preparing for the test forces candidates to engage deeply with the English language. It encourages the development of skills such as structured writing, academic vocabulary usage, and effective listening and note-taking—all of which are transferable to real-life situations in both academic and professional contexts.

TOEFL vs. Other English Proficiency Tests

While TOEFL is one of the most popular English proficiency tests, it is not the only one. Other widely accepted tests include the IELTS (International English Language Testing System), PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English), and Cambridge English qualifications.

Each of these tests has its structure, scoring system, and strengths. TOEFL is particularly favored by American and Canadian institutions because of its academic focus and online format. IELTS is commonly accepted in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand and includes a face-to-face speaking component. PTE is known for its fast results and fully computerized format.

Students may choose the TOEFL over other tests depending on institutional requirements, personal preferences, and familiarity with the test format. Some institutions accept multiple tests, while others may specify a preference. As such, students need to check admission requirements before selecting a test.

Accessibility and Availability of TOEFL

The TOEFL iBT is offered more than 60 times a year at authorized test centers around the world. In addition to test center options, ETS now offers the TOEFL iBT Home Edition, which allows candidates to take the exam from home using secure remote proctoring technology.

This increased accessibility has made it easier for students from different regions to take the test without the need for international travel. The availability of test dates and locations also provides greater flexibility for students to plan their preparation and test-taking schedules.

ETS provides registration options online, by phone, or by mail, and students can choose from available test dates and centers based on their location and convenience. Registration fees vary by country but typically range from 180 to 300 USD. Students are also allowed to send their scores to up to four institutions for free as part of the test fee.

TOEFL Structure and Scoring

Overview of the TOEFL iBT Format

The most widely used version of the TOEFL is the TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test), which evaluates English proficiency through four main sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Each section targets specific academic language skills required in a university environment. The total testing time is approximately 2 hours, although test durations may vary slightly due to unscored questions used for research purposes.

The test is administered under secure and standardized conditions, either at an approved test center or through the TOEFL iBT Home Edition, which uses remote proctoring. The TOEFL iBT is favored by most institutions because of its emphasis on real-life academic tasks and its thorough assessment of integrated language skills.

Reading Section

The reading section is designed to measure the ability to understand and analyze written academic texts. It typically includes two to three reading passages, each followed by ten questions, for a total of around 20 to 30 questions. The passages are drawn from university-level textbooks and academic articles covering subjects such as history, biology, sociology, or the arts.

Each passage is approximately 700 words long and is followed by a series of questions that test:

• Understanding of the main ideas and details 
• Vocabulary in context 
• Recognizing inferences and rhetorical purpose 
• Understanding text organization and function 

The section lasts 35 minutes. The goal is not only to assess reading comprehension but also to evaluate how well a test taker can handle dense academic materials, an essential skill for university coursework.

Test-takers are allowed to navigate through the passage and questions freely within each set. Skimming and scanning techniques are useful here, as is time management, given the dense content and the time constraint.

Listening Section

The listening section measures the ability to comprehend spoken English as it is used in academic settings. It includes two types of audio materials: conversations and lectures. Test takers listen to recordings and then answer multiple-choice questions that assess:

• Main ideas and supporting details 
• Inferences and speaker intent 
• Function and organization of ideas 
• Understanding of tone and attitude 

There are typically three to four lectures, each about 4 to 5 minutes long, with six questions per lecture. Additionally, there are two to three conversations, each around 3 minutes long, with five questions each. The entire section takes about 36 minutes to complete.

The speakers in the audio tracks use a variety of accents, such as North American, British, Australian, and New Zealand, to reflect the diversity of English usage in academic settings. This inclusion helps ensure fairness and prepares students for real-world exposure to global English accents.

Test takers cannot replay the recordings, so active listening and effective note-taking are crucial skills. Questions appear after each audio clip, and the answers are selected from multiple choices.

Speaking Section

The speaking section evaluates the ability to express ideas clearly and effectively in spoken English. It includes four tasks divided into two categories:

• Independent Task: The first task asks the test taker to express an opinion or describe a personal experience related to a familiar topic. 
• Integrated Tasks: The remaining three tasks require combining skills—reading, listening, and speaking. Test takers read a short text, listen to an audio clip, and then respond based on both. 

Each response is recorded through a microphone and submitted electronically. The tasks are timed, and each response is typically between 45 to 60 seconds long. The entire speaking section takes about 16 minutes.

Scoring focuses on:

• Fluency and coherence 
• Pronunciation and intonation 
• Grammar and vocabulary usage 
• Ability to stay on topic and organize ideas logically 

Raters listen to the recordings and use a standardized rubric to assign scores. The responses are evaluated by multiple raters to ensure fairness and objectivity.

Writing Section

The writing section assesses the ability to produce well-organized and grammatically correct written responses. It includes two tasks:

• Integrated Writing Task: The test taker reads a passage, listens to a lecture on the same topic, and writes a response that summarizes the key points and explains the relationship between the two sources. The response should be about 150 to 225 words. 
• Independent Writing Task: The test taker is asked to write an essay expressing an opinion on a familiar topic. The essay should be at least 300 words and must present a clear argument with supporting reasons and examples. 

The writing section lasts 29 minutes. It is designed to measure skills such as organization, coherence, grammar accuracy, vocabulary usage, and the ability to develop complex ideas in written form.

Responses are typed into a text box, and the writing tasks are scored by a combination of human raters and automated scoring tools. The integrated use of both ensures that the evaluation considers creativity and accuracy while maintaining scoring consistency.

TOEFL Scoring System

TOEFL uses a cumulative scoring system with a total score range of 0 to 120. Each of the four sections—Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing—is scored from 0 to 30. The individual section scores are then added together to calculate the overall score.

Reading and Listening Scoring

These sections are scored automatically using ETS’s sophisticated scoring systems. Raw scores (the number of correct answers) are converted to scaled scores that account for question difficulty and variations across test forms. Each question carries equal weight, and there are no penalties for incorrect answers.

Speaking and Writing Scoring

These sections are scored using a combination of trained human raters and artificial intelligence tools developed by ETS. Human raters assess responses using standardized rubrics that focus on content, organization, language use, and delivery. Multiple raters review each response to ensure fairness and accuracy.

Writing tasks are similarly evaluated based on the quality of argumentation, development of ideas, grammar, and mechanics. The scoring rubrics are transparent and consistent, allowing test takers to understand how their responses are assessed.

Score Report and Interpretation

Test takers receive their scores approximately six days after the test date if they take the TOEFL iBT. The score report provides:

• Individual section scores 
• Total score 
• Performance level descriptors for each section 

The performance descriptors categorize scores into levels such as High, Intermediate, and Low. These levels help institutions interpret what the scores mean in terms of English proficiency. For example:

• A Reading score of 22–30 is considered High 
• A Listening score of 17–21 is considered Intermediate. 
• A Speaking score of 10–17 may indicate limited spoken proficiency. 

Test takers can send their official scores to up to four institutions for free during registration. Additional score reports can be sent later for an extra fee.

TOEFL Score Validity

TOEFL scores are valid for two years from the test date. After this period, scores expire and are no longer available or accepted by most institutions. This validity period is based on the understanding that language proficiency can decline without regular use.

Test takers who need updated scores for new applications must retake the exam. It is important to plan to ensure that scores are valid at the time of application.

Retaking the TOEFL

There is no limit to the number of times a test taker can attempt the TOEFL. However, they must wait a minimum of three days between test dates. Many students choose to take the test more than once to improve their scores, especially in sections where they may have underperformed.

ETS does not average scores from multiple tests. Instead, test takers may choose which scores to send to institutions. Some institutions allow applicants to send their highest score in each section from different test dates, a practice known as “MyBest scores.” However, not all institutions accept this format, so students should verify the policy of each target school.

TOEFL Preparation Strategies and Resources

The Importance of Preparation

Preparing for the TOEFL is essential for anyone who aims to achieve a competitive score and gain admission to an English-speaking academic institution. The TOEFL is not just a test of general English ability—it evaluates the specific academic skills required for reading complex texts, writing structured essays, understanding lectures, and speaking clearly in academic discussions. Even fluent English speakers can benefit from structured preparation to become familiar with the format and expectations of the test.

Effective preparation involves improving language skills, understanding the test structure, practicing under timed conditions, and developing strategies to manage different question types. Most successful test takers combine multiple resources and approaches to ensure comprehensive readiness.

Setting a Study Plan

A successful TOEFL preparation process begins with a clear, realistic study plan. Test takers should start by determining their current level of proficiency through a diagnostic test or practice exam. This will help identify strengths and weaknesses, allowing for more targeted preparation.

The study plan should include:

• A set timeframe before the exam (at least 6 to 12 weeks for most learners) 
• Daily or weekly study goals 
• A balanced focus on all four test sections 
• Scheduled full-length practice tests 
• Time for review and improvement based on performance feedback 

Sticking to a consistent routine helps build language skills gradually while reducing anxiety and fatigue closer to the exam date.

Improving Academic English Skills

TOEFL preparation is most effective when it goes beyond test practice and focuses on building core academic English abilities. This includes:

Reading: Students should regularly read academic texts from sources such as scientific articles, historical essays, and university textbooks. Practicing how to skim for main ideas, identify supporting details, and understand vocabulary in context is essential.

Listening: Listening to academic lectures, podcasts, and news programs can help develop an ear for English used in academic settings. Note-taking is a vital skill, as the TOEFL requires retaining and summarizing spoken information accurately.

Speaking: Practicing responses to common speaking prompts and recording oneself can help develop fluency and pronunciation. Test takers should also work on structuring their answers with clear introductions, supporting points, and conclusions.

Writing: Writing practice essays is crucial. Students should learn how to construct clear thesis statements, support arguments with examples, and use transitions effectively. Reviewing model essays and peer feedback can enhance awareness of style, grammar, and coherence.

Official ETS Resources

One of the most reliable sources of TOEFL preparation material is the Educational Testing Service (ETS), the organization that designs and administers the test. ETS provides a range of official resources tailored to the TOEFL iBT:

• TOEFL iBT Free Practice Test 
• TOEFL Go! Official App 
• TOEFL Practice Online (TPO) 
• Official Guide to the TOEFL Test (book) 
• Official TOEFL iBT Tests Volumes 1 and 2 

These resources include real test questions, sample responses, and scoring rubrics, offering the most accurate picture of the exam. The TPO series is particularly useful because it provides full-length practice tests under timed conditions with score reports.

Online TOEFL Preparation Platforms

Several educational companies and online platforms provide high-quality TOEFL preparation materials. These platforms cater to different learning styles through video lessons, practice questions, study plans, and progress tracking.

Magoosh
Magoosh offers an intuitive and comprehensive online TOEFL preparation platform. It includes hundreds of practice questions, video explanations, customizable study schedules, and detailed feedback. The course covers all sections and is ideal for self-paced learners. The videos explain grammar points, reading strategies, listening skills, and speaking structure, making it a well-rounded resource.

Kaplan
Kaplan provides structured courses that include full-length practice tests, in-depth study guides, and online or in-person classes. Their lessons are designed by experienced instructors and focus heavily on mastering test strategies. Kaplan also includes diagnostic tools and personalized feedback.

EdX
EdX features TOEFL preparation courses developed in partnership with institutions such as the University of Washington. These courses cover all four sections and provide video lectures, practice exercises, and quizzes. They are suitable for learners who prefer a more academic or classroom-like environment.

Testden
Testden specializes in TOEFL practice tests that simulate the real exam. Their full-length tests include speaking and writing tasks, with feedback on performance. This platform is ideal for learners who want to practice under exam-like conditions and evaluate their readiness.

Mometrix
Mometrix offers TOEFL study guides, flashcards, and practice questions in both print and digital formats. Their materials break down difficult concepts into simple explanations and include tips for handling challenging question types.

ScoreNexus
ScoreNexus provides detailed mock exams with personalized scoring and performance analysis. Their speaking and writing sections are reviewed by professional raters, making it easier for students to understand their performance and improve specific skills.

EnglishClass101
EnglishClass101 offers TOEFL-specific video content, flashcards, and listening practice. The platform focuses on vocabulary building, pronunciation, and fluency, making it a good supplement for those who want to improve spoken and listening English.

Testpreppractice
TestPrepPractice is a free resource offering sample questions and practice tests. Although it may not be as comprehensive as paid platforms, it is useful for basic practice and concept revision.

Targeting Weak Areas

One of the most important aspects of TOEFL preparation is identifying and targeting weak areas. This involves reviewing practice test performance and analyzing errors. For example, if a student consistently scores lower in the speaking section, they might:

• Focus on pronunciation and fluency exercises 
• Record and listen to their responses to improve clarity. 
• Learn to structure answers using a template.s 
• Practice a timed speaking drill.s 

If reading scores are lower, the focus might shift to:

• Expanding academic vocabulary 
• Improving reading speed and comprehension 
• Practicing skimming and scanning techniques 

Each section of the test has distinct challenges, and targeted practice ensures that no area becomes a liability during the exam.

Taking Full-Length Practice Tests

One of the most effective preparation techniques is completing full-length TOEFL practice tests. These simulate the real test environment and help students:

• Build stamina for the 2-hour test duration 
• Practice time management 
• Understand how different sections are connected.. 
• Get used to switching between reading, listening, writing, and speaking tasks. 

After each test, it’s important to review all answers, understand the rationale behind correct responses, and reflect on strategies that worked or failed. This process transforms practice into meaningful improvement.

Using Feedback for Improvement

TOEFL preparation is most successful when guided by consistent feedback. This feedback may come from:

• Automated scores in practice tests 
• Peer reviews in study groups 
• Teacher or tutor evaluations 
• Detailed explanations from practice platforms 

Feedback helps test takers understand not just what they got wrong, but why. It also highlights recurring patterns, such as weak transitions in writing or unclear speech in speaking tasks. Addressing this feedback systematically leads to measurable improvement.

Additional Strategies for Success

• Focus on building academic vocabulary. Knowing subject-specific words used in university lectures or readings helps with comprehension and performance. 
• Improve typing speed and accuracy for the writing section, especially for those less familiar with keyboard use. 
• Practice reading and listening together to improve multitasking for integrated tasks. 
• Use online timers and silence distractions during practice sessions to replicate real test conditions. 

TOEFL vs. Other English Proficiency Tests and Final Thoughts

Overview of Alternative English Language Tests

While TOEFL is a widely recognized and respected English proficiency exam, it is not the only option available to test takers. Other commonly accepted English tests include the IELTS (International English Language Testing System), PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English), and Cambridge English exams. These alternatives are accepted by many of the same universities, colleges, and immigration departments that recognize TOEFL scores.

Each of these tests serves the same fundamental purpose—measuring a candidate’s ability to use English in an academic or professional setting—but they differ significantly in terms of structure, scoring, delivery method, and testing experience. Understanding these differences is essential for students when deciding which test is best suited to their goals and preferences.

TOEFL vs. IELTS

Among all the alternatives, the IELTS is the most commonly compared with the TOEFL. Both exams are accepted by thousands of institutions worldwide, including universities in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Europe. However, there are several notable differences between them.

1. Test Format and Delivery

TOEFL iBT is conducted entirely online. All sections—reading, listening, speaking, and writing—are taken on a computer, even the speaking section, where responses are recorded and later evaluated by raters.

In contrast, IELTS offers two versions: the IELTS Academic and the IELTS General Training. For university admissions, the IELTS Academic is used. It can be taken either on paper or on a computer, depending on the test center. One major difference is the speaking section, which is conducted face-to-face with a trained examiner.

For test takers who are more comfortable typing than writing by hand or who prefer speaking into a microphone rather than interacting with a person, the TOEFL format might be preferable. Others who perform better in human interactions might favor IELTS.

2. Speaking Section

The TOEFL speaking section consists of four tasks completed on a computer, where the test taker’s voice is recorded and scored later by multiple raters. These tasks include expressing opinions and responding to academic situations using both listening and reading materials.

IELTS, on the other hand, includes a 10–15-minute in-person interview with a certified examiner. It consists of three parts: a personal introduction, a discussion on a familiar topic, and a deeper conversation on abstract or academic subjects.

This difference can impact performance. The IELTS format may feel more natural for test takers who are confident in face-to-face conversations. The TOEFL format may be better for those who find comfort in structured, technology-driven settings.

3. Writing Section

Both tests include two writing tasks. In the TOEFL, the integrated writing task involves reading a passage and listening to a related lecture before writing a response. The second task is an opinion essay on a familiar topic.

IELTS also includes two tasks: one that asks the test taker to describe and interpret a visual (such as a chart or graph) and another essay question that requires an argument or opinion.

TOEFL writing is typed, while IELTS writing may be either typed (computer-based IELTS) or handwritten (paper-based IELTS). The academic focus of TOEFL’s integrated task sets it apart, as it more closely mimics tasks students might face in a university setting.

4. Scoring System

TOEFL is scored out of 120, with each of the four sections worth 30 points. The scoring is automated and human-reviewed for speaking and writing. The test taker receives a total score as well as a breakdown for each section.

IELTS uses a band scale from 1 to 9 for each section. The scores are averaged to produce an overall band score. Half bands (e.g., 6.5 or 7.5) are also used. IELTS scores are easier to interpret for some institutions, especially in the UK and Australia.

Both exams provide detailed score reports and performance descriptors. However, institutions often set minimum score requirements differently for each test, so students need to confirm what is needed for their target program.

5. Availability and Frequency

TOEFL iBT is available over 60 times per year and is widely accessible through authorized test centers and the Home Edition. IELTS is offered multiple times each month in various formats and is available in more than 140 countries.

The choice between the two may also depend on accessibility. If one test center is more conveniently located or offers better scheduling flexibility, that may influence a student’s decision.

6. Test Duration

TOEFL takes about 2 hours to complete, while IELTS takes roughly the same time, although the speaking section may be scheduled separately in some cases.

Some students may prefer completing the entire exam in a single sitting, while others may appreciate the chance to prepare separately for the speaking test in IELTS.

Comparing TOEFL with Other Tests

PTE Academic
PTE is a fully computer-based test that uses AI scoring and emphasizes quick turnaround times. Results are typically available within 48 hours. The test focuses on integrated tasks similar to TOEFL, making it a good alternative for those who want fast results and prefer computerized formats.

Cambridge English Qualifications
These include tests such as the C1 Advanced (CAE) and C2 Proficiency (CPE). These tests are more detailed and have no expiry, unlike the TOEFL’s two-year validity. However, they are less commonly accepted in the U.S. and some parts of the world.

Duolingo English Test
A newer entrant, this test is entirely online, can be taken at home, and provides results in 48 hours. It’s shorter and less expensive than TOEFL, but it may not be accepted by as many institutions.

Choosing the Right Test

The decision between TOEFL, IELTS, and other English proficiency tests should be based on several factors:

• Requirements of target institutions or programs 
• Comfort level with speaking into a microphone vs. a live interviewer 
• Preference for online vs. paper-based testing 
• Testing availability and cost in your region 
• Specific skills (e.g., speed in typing, comfort with visuals) 

TOEFL remains a strong choice for students applying to North American institutions and for those who prefer academic-style tasks. It is particularly well-suited for test takers who are already familiar with computer-based assessments.

Final Thoughts

The TOEFL is more than just an exam—it is a stepping stone for students and professionals who aspire to be part of the global academic and professional community. For universities, TOEFL offers a consistent and reliable measure of English readiness. For students, it provides a valuable learning experience that enhances both language skills and academic confidence.

A good TOEFL score can lead to admission into top-tier institutions, eligibility for scholarships, and qualifications for work or migration. In many cases, it is a requirement that opens the door to life-changing opportunities abroad.

Moreover, the skills developed through TOEFL preparation—critical thinking, academic writing, analytical reading, effective listening, and structured speaking—are indispensable in any English-speaking environment. These skills benefit students long after the test is over, whether in classrooms, workplaces, or daily life in an English-speaking country.

Success on the TOEFL requires dedication, consistent effort, and a strategic approach to learning. Test takers who understand the structure of the exam, make use of high-quality resources, and practice purposefully are more likely to reach their goals. By viewing the TOEFL as part of a larger academic journey, rather than just a hurdle, students can gain a valuable foundation for future success.