How to Get a Higher TOEFL Score With Superscoring in Singapore

Learn how TOEFL superscoring works, how my best scores combine your best section results, and how to improve your TOEFL score in Singapore.

Getting a high TOEFL score is an important step for students planning to study abroad. However, achieving your target score in every section during a single test attempt can be challenging. What if you perform well in Reading and Listening but need more practice in Speaking or Writing? This is where TOEFL superscoring, officially known as MyBest® scores, can help.

For students preparing for the Singapore TOEFL test, understanding superscoring can make test preparation more strategic. It allows eligible candidates to demonstrate their best performance across multiple TOEFL iBT test attempts, rather than relying only on the results of one test date.

In this guide, we explain what TOEFL superscoring is, how it works, and how you can use it to work towards a higher TOEFL score.

1. What Is TOEFL Superscoring?

TOEFL superscoring is a scoring feature that combines your highest section scores from eligible TOEFL iBT test attempts taken within the previous two years.

ETS officially calls this feature MyBest® scores. It brings together your best results across four sections:

1. Reading
2. Listening
3. Speaking
4. Writing

Instead of considering only your performance on one test date, MyBest scores show your highest achievement in each section across valid test attempts.

For example, you might achieve your best Reading score in your first attempt, improve Listening in your second attempt, and perform better in Speaking and Writing during your third attempt. Your MyBest score report combines these highest section results.

This gives students another opportunity to demonstrate their English-language abilities when applying to universities.

2. How Does TOEFL Superscoring Work?

The process is straightforward. ETS automatically includes MyBest scores in TOEFL iBT score reports alongside your scores from an individual test date.

Consider this simplified example:

Reading23252425Listening21222424Speaking20232223Writing22212424

In this example, the candidate's best performance comes from different test attempts. MyBest combines the highest result in each section to present a stronger overall performance profile.

The actual score calculation and reporting follow ETS rules. You do not need to apply separately for superscoring because MyBest scores are included automatically in eligible score reports.

ETS confirms that TOEFL iBT scores remain valid for two years from the test date. Therefore, students should plan their test attempts and university applications within the applicable score-validity period.

3. Why Is TOEFL Superscoring Important?

Superscoring can be beneficial for students who have different strengths across the four English-language skills.

Here are some important advantages:

Shows your best performance: You can demonstrate your strongest Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing results from eligible test attempts.

Reduces pressure on one test day: You do not necessarily need to achieve your target performance in every section during the same attempt.

Encourages improvement: You can focus on weaker sections while maintaining your stronger skills.

Supports university applications: Institutions that accept MyBest scores may consider your highest section results when reviewing your English-language proficiency.

However, remember that not every university accepts superscores. Always check the individual admission requirements before deciding how to use your results.

4. How to Improve Each TOEFL Section

If you want to benefit from superscoring, focus on improving individual sections instead of preparing for all four sections in exactly the same way.

Reading

Improve your reading speed, vocabulary, and ability to understand academic passages. Practise identifying the main idea, supporting details, and relationships between different parts of a passage.

Try reading academic articles regularly and answering timed comprehension questions.

Listening

Listen to academic lectures, discussions, and educational podcasts. Practise identifying important information, understanding the speaker's purpose, and taking useful notes.

Review incorrect answers to understand whether you missed important details or misunderstood the context.

Speaking

Record your responses to practice questions and evaluate your pronunciation, fluency, organisation, and clarity.

Try speaking about familiar and academic topics within the given time limits. Regular practice can help you become more confident and organised.

Writing

Consistent TOEFL writing practice is essential for improving your ability to communicate ideas clearly. Focus on grammar, sentence structure, vocabulary, organisation, and supporting arguments with relevant examples.

Practise writing responses within the allotted time and review them to identify repeated mistakes.

5. Create a Section-Wise TOEFL Preparation Strategy

A well-planned preparation strategy can help you make better use of multiple test attempts.

Start by taking a practice test to understand your current performance. Identify which sections are already strong and which require additional attention.

Next, create a preparation schedule based on your results.

For example:

1. Week 1: Take a diagnostic test and identify weak sections.
2. Weeks 2–3: Focus on improving your two weakest sections.
3. Week 4: Complete timed practice exercises and review mistakes.
4. Week 5: Take another practice test to evaluate your progress.
5. Week 6: Prepare for your next test attempt if your target scores and application timeline require it.

Adjust this schedule according to your individual needs. Avoid retaking the exam without understanding what needs improvement.

6. Does Every University Accept TOEFL MyBest Scores?

No. Each university and institution establishes its own English-language admission requirements.

Although an increasing number of institutions accept TOEFL MyBest scores, some may require applicants to meet their minimum score requirements in a single test sitting.

Before booking your TOEFL exam Singapore, research the universities and programmes you plan to apply to. Check:

1. Whether the institution accepts MyBest scores.
2. The required overall TOEFL score.
3. Minimum section-score requirements.
4. Score validity and application deadlines.
5. Whether additional English-language requirements apply.

You can also check the official ETS list of institutions that accept MyBest scores and contact universities directly to confirm their latest policies.

Also Read: TOEFL 2026 New Format Explained: What Singapore Students Must Know Before Registering

7. Prepare for the TOEFL Test With Expert Guidance

Understanding superscoring is only one part of achieving a higher TOEFL score. Regular practice, effective feedback, and a structured learning approach are equally important.

If you are planning to take the Singapore TOEFL test, consider choosing a preparation programme that covers all four sections and provides opportunities to practise different question types.

A structured TOEFL preparation course can help you identify weaknesses, improve your academic English skills, and develop better test-taking strategies.

The Princeton Review Singapore provide TOEFL Courses to help students prepare for the TOEFL test through structured lessons, practice activities, and expert guidance. With consistent preparation, students can work towards improving their individual section performance and achieving their target results.

Conclusion

TOEFL superscoring offers students another way to demonstrate their English-language abilities by combining their highest section results from eligible TOEFL iBT attempts within the previous two years.

For students preparing for the Singapore TOEFL test, the best approach is to understand MyBest scores, check university acceptance policies, and develop a focused preparation strategy for Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.

Remember that superscoring does not replace preparation. It works best when combined with regular practice, section-wise improvement, and a clear understanding of your university's requirements. Start preparing early, track your progress, and make every TOEFL attempt an opportunity to improve.