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TOEFL Reading Section Practice Questions

DIRECTIONS: Each passage or pair of passages below is followed by several questions. After reading each passage or pair, choose the best answer to each question based on what is stated or implied in the passage or passages (1-10)

Passage 1: Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary

Researchers from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc.) in Bengaluru have recently documented a significant ecological phenomenon unfolding in the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary located in the Himalayan foothills of Arunachal Pradesh’s West Kameng District. This sanctuary, nestled within the Eastern Himalayas biodiversity hotspot, is celebrated for its rich avian diversity, housing over 500 bird species. Known for its varied habitats spanning altitudes from 500 meters to 3,250 meters, Eaglenest is characterized by temperate cloud forests interspersed with bamboo groves, broadleaved evergreens, coniferous trees, and vibrant rhododendron blooms.

The IISc. study highlights a noticeable trend among bird species moving to higher elevations within the sanctuary. This shift, researchers suggest, is driven primarily by rising temperatures in the region, a consequence of broader climate change impacts. As temperatures increase, birds seek out cooler habitats found at higher altitudes to maintain optimal living conditions and adapt to the changing climate dynamics.

The sanctuary’s reputation as a premier birding site stems not only from its sheer diversity but also from its accessibility, attracting bird enthusiasts and researchers alike. The unique blend of habitats supports a plethora of bird species, making it a crucial area for conservation efforts amidst environmental challenges.

This observed migration pattern underscores the sanctuary’s importance as a sanctuary not only for birds but also for biodiversity conservation in the Eastern Himalayas. It serves as a natural laboratory for studying the effects of climate change on high-altitude ecosystems and their resident species. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for formulating effective conservation strategies to preserve the sanctuary’s ecological integrity and the myriad species dependent on its habitats.

As research continues to unravel the intricacies of ecological shifts in response to climate change, Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary stands as a poignant example of nature’s resilience and the delicate balance between environmental stability and human-induced impacts in fragile ecosystems.

Questions:

Question 1: Where is the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary located?

A) Uttarakhand

B) Arunachal Pradesh

C) Himachal Pradesh

D) Assam

Answer: B) Arunachal Pradesh

Question 2: What is the primary reason for bird species migrating to higher elevations in Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary?

A) Escalating human activities

B) Deforestation

C) Rising temperatures

D) Decline in prey availability

Answer: C) Rising temperatures

Question 3: How many bird species are estimated to reside in Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary?

A) Over 200

B) Over 500

C) Over 1000

D) Over 300

Answer: B) Over 500

Question 4: Which of the following is NOT a habitat type found in Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary?

A) Temperate cloud forests

B) Desert dunes

C) Broadleaved evergreen forests

D) Coniferous trees

Answer: B) Desert dunes

Question 5: What makes Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary a renowned birding site?

A) Extensive wetlands

B) Unpredictable weather

C) Diverse bird species and accessibility

D) Large mammal populations

Answer: C) Diverse bird species and accessibility

Question 6: Which institute conducted the study on bird habitat shifts in Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary?

A) Indian Institute of Management (IIM)

B) Indian Institute of Science (IISc.)

C) Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs)

D) Wildlife Institute of India (WII)

Answer: B) Indian Institute of Science (IISc.)

Question 7: What altitudinal range does Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary cover?

A) 100 meters to 1000 meters

B) 500 meters to 3000 meters

C) 2000 meters to 4000 meters

D) 300 meters to 1200 meters

Answer: B) 500 meters to 3250 meters

Question 8: What type of forests are predominant in Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary?

A) Deciduous forests

B) Mangrove forests

C) Cloud forests

D) Savanna forests

Answer: C) Cloud forests

Question 9: Which biodiversity hotspot includes Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary?

A) Amazon Rainforest

B) Eastern Himalayas

C) Great Barrier Reef

D) Congo Basin

Answer: B) Eastern Himalayas

Question 10: What is the significance of studying bird migrations in Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary?

A) Understanding climate change impacts

B) Developing new tourist attractions

C) Improving agricultural practices

D) Monitoring invasive species

Answer: A) Understanding climate change impacts

Passage 2: The Hog Deer

The recent discovery of hog deer in the Rajaji Tiger Reserve marks a significant ecological finding, shedding light on the species’ adaptability and habitat dynamics. Historically absent from this reserve, hog deer’s presence underscores the sanctuary’s role as a crucial habitat for wildlife conservation in India. Known for their solitary habits, hog deer occasionally form small feeding groups, particularly in open fields abundant with food. Hog deer are generally sedentary and non-migratory, yet males exhibit territorial behavior using glandular secretions to mark their boundaries. This behavior emphasizes their reliance on specific habitats within their range. They display sexual dimorphism, with females being smaller and lacking antlers, while males boast prominent antlers used in territorial displays and mating rituals. Native to India, hog deer inhabit regions ranging from the Himalayan foothills to Southeast Asia. Their adaptable nature has led to introductions in Sri Lanka, Australia, and the United States, where they have established populations. Their preferred habitats include dense forests, grasslands, and wetlands, varying seasonally based on food availability and environmental conditions. Despite their resilience, hog deer face conservation challenges. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists them as endangered, reflecting the pressures from habitat loss, poaching, and human encroachment. In India, they receive the highest protection under Scheduled I of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, highlighting their conservation status and the legal framework aimed at safeguarding them. The newfound presence of hog deer in Rajaji Tiger Reserve underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and conservation efforts. By studying their behaviors and habitat use within the sanctuary, conservationists can better understand their ecological needs and formulate effective protection strategies. This discovery not only enriches our understanding of local biodiversity but also emphasizes the critical role of protected areas in preserving threatened species like the hog deer. Moving forward, continued research, habitat restoration, and community involvement are essential to ensuring the long-term survival of hog deer and maintaining the biodiversity integrity of places like the Rajaji Tiger Reserve. This discovery serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness between conservation efforts and the preservation of India’s rich natural heritage.

Questions:

Question 1: Where was the hog deer recently discovered, marking a significant finding?

A) Kaziranga National Park

B) Sundarbans National Park

C) Rajaji Tiger Reserve

D) Bandhavgarh National Park

Answer: C) Rajaji Tiger Reserve

Question 2: What is a notable characteristic of hog deer’s feeding behavior?

A) They feed exclusively in dense forests

B) They feed in large herds year-round

C) They occasionally feed in small groups in open fields

D) They are nocturnal feeders

Answer: C) They occasionally feed in small groups in open fields

Question 3: What do male hog deer use to mark their territory?

A) Hoof marks

B) Antlers

C) Glandular secretions

D) Vocal calls

Answer: C) Glandular secretions

Question 4: Where are hog deer native to?

A) Africa

B) Europe

C) India and Southeast Asia

D) South America

Answer: C) India and Southeast Asia

Question 5: Which of the following regions is hog deer not native to?

A) Sri Lanka

B) Australia

C) United States

D) Europe

Answer: D) Europe

Question 6: What is the preferred habitat of hog deer?

A) Desert regions

B) Arctic tundra

C) Dense forests, grasslands, and occasionally wetlands

D) Coastal mangroves

Answer: C) Dense forests, grasslands, and occasionally wetlands

Question 7: How is sexual dimorphism exhibited in hog deer?

A) Males are smaller and lack antlers

B) Females have larger antlers than males

C) Males are larger and more colorful than females

D) Females lack antlers while males have prominent antlers

Answer: D) Females lack antlers while males have prominent antlers

Question 8: According to the IUCN, what is the conservation status of hog deer?

A) Least Concern

B) Endangered

C) Vulnerable

D) Near Threatened

Answer: B) Endangered

Question 9: Under which schedule of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 in India are hog deer listed?

A) Schedule II

B) Schedule I

C) Schedule IV

D) Schedule III

Answer: B) Schedule I

Question 10: What does the discovery of hog deer in Rajaji Tiger Reserve emphasize?

A) The need for invasive species management

B) The importance of continued conservation efforts

C) The decline in tiger populations

D) The impact of climate change on wildlife

Answer: B) The importance of continued conservation efforts

TOEFL Writing Section Questions

Both integrated and autonomous writing assignments are included in the TOEFL writing section. The TOEFL writing for an academic debate task has taken the place of the solo writing work in the exam syllabus. It’s crucial to regularly practise with the most recent TOEFL writing samples in order to get ready for the new exam format.

TOEFL Writing Academic Discussion

Question 1: Bramhagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

Brad: Hey Paul, did you hear about the new butterfly species discovered in Karnataka?

Paul: No, what’s the buzz?

Brad: Researchers at NCBS found a butterfly called Conjoined Silverline in Bramhagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. It’s tiny, about the size of a one rupee coin.

Paul: That’s fascinating! Where exactly in Karnataka was it found?

Brad: It’s in the Western Ghats, specifically in mid-elevation evergreen forests. They spotted it around Iruppu Falls and Honey Valley, between 900 to 1300 meters.

Paul: What makes this butterfly special?

Brad: It has unique fused spots and shiny silver lines on its wings. Plus, it’s endemic to the Western Ghats, so it’s crucial for conservation efforts there.

Paul: India’s biodiversity never fails to surprise! How many butterfly species are there in India now?

Brad: Over 1,400, but new discoveries like this are rare these days.

Paul: This find underscores the importance of protecting these habitats. Thanks for sharing, Brad!

Brad: Absolutely.

Response:

Brad and Paul discuss the discovery of the Conjoined Silverline butterfly in Karnataka’s Bramhagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. Identified by researchers from NCBS, this species is small and endemic to the Western Ghats’ mid-elevation evergreen forests. It features unique fused spots and shiny silver lines on its wings. The butterfly was found at elevations of 900 to 1300 meters near Iruppu Falls and Honey Valley. They reflect on India’s diverse butterfly fauna, totaling over 1,400 species, with rare new discoveries like this emphasizing the need for conservation efforts in these biodiverse regions.

Question 2: Gangetic Dolphin Recently Rescued

Anna: Did you hear about the Gangetic dolphin rescued in Odisha?

Ben: Yes, it’s exciting news! I didn’t know they were still around there.

Anna: They used to be widespread in many river systems, including the Ganges and Brahmaputra.

Ben: I read they’re blind and hunt using sound. Incredible adaptation!

Anna: Absolutely! They’re endangered now, but initiatives like ‘Project Gangetic Dolphin’ give hope for their conservation.

Ben: It’s good to see India taking steps to protect its national aquatic animal.

Anna: Definitely. Preserving their habitat is crucial for their survival.

Ben: Let’s hope more dolphins are discovered, signaling healthier river ecosystems.

Anna: Absolutely, Ben. It’s a reminder of how interconnected our conservation efforts are with nature.

Response:

Anna and Ben discuss the recent rescue of a Gangetic dolphin in Odisha, highlighting its significance for freshwater dolphin conservation. Once widespread across major river systems, the Gangetic dolphin is now endangered and relies on ultrasonic sounds for hunting due to its blindness. They mention India’s ‘Project Gangetic Dolphin,’ launched in 2023, aimed at protecting this species, which holds national importance. Their conversation emphasizes the need for conservation efforts to preserve habitat and ensure the survival of these unique aquatic mammals, reflecting on the broader impact on river ecosystems and biodiversity conservation.

TOEFL Integrated Writing Task

This task involves reading a passage, listening to a lecture, and then writing a response that synthesizes information from both sources.

Topic: Lake Retba

Keyli: Tom, have you heard about Lake Retba in Senegal?

Tom: No, what’s special about it?

Keyli: It’s known as the Pink Lake because of the halophilic green algae that turn its waters pink!

Tom: That’s fascinating! How does that happen?

Keyli: The algae, Dunaliella salina, produce red pigments due to their salt-resistant nature, giving the lake its unique color.

Tom: Wow, nature never ceases to amaze. Is it affected by pollution?

Keyli: Yes, pollution and mining threaten its ecosystem, but it’s still a popular tourist spot for its stunning pink hue and unique biodiversity.

Tom: It sounds beautiful yet fragile. We need to protect such natural wonders.

Keyli: Absolutely, Tom. It’s crucial for us to balance tourism with conservation efforts to preserve places like Lake Retba.

Response:

Keyli informs Tom about Lake Retba, also known as the Pink Lake, located in Senegal. She explains that the lake’s distinctive pink color comes from halophilic green algae called Dunaliella salina, which produce red pigments due to their salt-resistant nature. Tom finds it fascinating and asks about the lake’s environmental challenges. Keyli mentions pollution and mining as threats to its ecosystem but notes that it remains a popular tourist destination for its unique color and biodiversity. They agree on the importance of balancing tourism with conservation efforts to safeguard natural wonders like Lake Retba.

TOEFL Integrated Writing Task

This task involves reading a passage, listening to a lecture, and then writing a response that synthesizes information from both sources.

Topic: Kanger Valley National Park

Located in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, Kanger Valley National Park has embarked on an innovative landscape-based ecological restoration initiative, partnering with various organizations and government departments. Established in 1982, the park covers 200 sq km along the Kholaba River. Renowned for its diverse topography, it boasts remarkable caves such as Kutumbasar, Kailash, and Dandak, alongside the picturesque Tirathgarh Waterfall.

Listening Lecture

The park’s lush flora comprises Sal, Saugaun, teak, and bamboo, providing a habitat for a diverse array of wildlife including tigers, leopards, deer, langurs, and a vibrant avian population. This collaborative effort aims not only to preserve the park’s natural beauty and biodiversity but also to enhance its ecological resilience in the face of environmental challenges. Kanger Valley National Park stands as a testament to the ongoing commitment to conservation and sustainable management of India’s rich natural heritage.

Question: What makes Kanger Valley National Park unique in terms of its biodiversity and attractions?

Answer:

Kanger Valley National Park in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, stands out for its rich biodiversity and natural attractions. Spanning 200 sq km along the Kholaba River, the park features diverse topography including notable caves like Kutumbasar, Kailash, and Dandak, along with the majestic Tirathgarh Waterfall. Its flora is characterized by Sal, Saugaun, teak, and bamboo forests, supporting a variety of wildlife such as tigers, leopards, deer, langurs, and numerous bird species. This blend of scenic landscapes, caves, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems makes Kanger Valley National Park a unique and significant conservation area in central India.

Topic: Wandering albatrosses

Wandering albatrosses, characterized by their impressive 3.5-meter wingspan, are under significant threat of extinction primarily due to human activities and climate change impacts. These majestic birds, known as the largest flying birds globally, face dangers such as longline fishing, where they inadvertently get caught on hooks, and plastic ingestion, which poses health risks and impedes their ability to forage effectively. Climate change further exacerbates their plight by affecting their nesting sites on remote subantarctic islands like Marion and Prince Edward. Rising temperatures and changing oceanic conditions can disrupt their breeding cycles and food availability, critical for their survival.

Listening Lecture

These oceanic nomads spend the majority of their 60-year lifespan at sea, soaring over vast distances in search of food. Their vulnerability underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect not only the wandering albatrosses themselves but also the fragile ecosystems they depend on. Preserving their nesting habitats and implementing measures to mitigate human impacts, such as sustainable fishing practices and reducing plastic pollution in oceans, are crucial steps towards ensuring the long-term survival of these iconic seabirds.

Question: What are the primary threats facing wandering albatrosses, and why are they vulnerable to extinction?

Answer:

Wandering albatrosses, known for their enormous wingspan of 3.5 meters, are threatened primarily by longline fishing, where they are unintentionally caught on hooks, and plastic ingestion, which affects their health and foraging abilities. Climate change poses an additional risk by altering their nesting habitats on subantarctic islands like Marion and Prince Edward. These birds spend most of their 60-year lifespan at sea, making them vulnerable to changes in oceanic conditions and food availability. Urgent conservation measures are essential to safeguard these majestic seabirds and their critical habitats from further decline.

TOEFL Speaking Section

Task 1: Independent Speaking Task

Question: Do you prefer a profession that requires you to work in a group?

Answer:

Yes, I do enjoy professions that involve working in a group. Collaborative work environments often foster creativity, diverse perspectives, and efficient problem-solving. Working with others allows for sharing of ideas, pooling of skills, and leveraging collective strengths to achieve common goals. It also promotes learning from peers and building strong professional relationships. In such settings, I find that teamwork enhances productivity and contributes to a more dynamic and supportive work atmosphere, which can lead to innovative solutions and personal growth.

Task 2: Integrated Speaking Task

Question: Read a passage about Pinanga subterrane

In western Borneo, the Pinanga subterranea palm tree stands out as a botanical marvel with its unconventional growth habits. Unlike typical palm trees, this rare species thrives with its flowers and fruits growing underground, a phenomenon that has intrigued both locals and scientists alike. Known for its edible fruits enjoyed by local communities for generations, the Pinanga subterranea remained largely unnoticed by scientific exploration until its discovery by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, in 2023.

Question: Listen to a conversation between two friends about Pinanga subterrane

Conversation:

Amal: Rudy, have you heard about the Pinanga subterranea palm discovered in Borneo?

Rudy: No, what’s so special about it?

Amal: It grows underground with saxophone-like stems and hidden flowers! Botanists are puzzled by its unique survival tactics.

Rudy: That’s fascinating! How do they pollinate if the flowers are underground?

Amal: That’s still a mystery, but it shows how plants can adapt uniquely to survive in diverse environments.

Rudy: Nature never ceases to surprise us. It must be crucial for Borneo’s ecosystem.

Amal: Absolutely, Rudy. Discoveries like this push us to rethink conservation and understand biodiversity better.

Rudy: We definitely need to protect such remarkable species.

Amal: Indeed, Rudy. It’s a testament to nature’s resilience and the importance of ecological research.

Question: How does the Pinanga subterranea palm’s unique survival strategy challenge conventional botanical knowledge, and what implications does it have for biodiversity conservation in Borneo?

Answer:

The Pinanga subterranea palm’s underground growth strategy, with saxophone-like stems and concealed flowers, defies conventional botanical understanding. Its ability to thrive in Borneo’s ecosystem underscores the resilience and adaptability of plant species. Understanding its pollination mysteries could reveal new insights into plant reproductive biology. Conservation implications are profound as protecting such unique species becomes crucial for maintaining biodiversity. This discovery prompts reevaluation of conservation strategies, emphasizing the need for habitat preservation and further research into how plants adapt to environmental challenges, ensuring the sustainability of ecosystems like those in Borneo.

Task 3: Integrated Speaking Task (Lecture Summary)

Question: Listen to a lecture on a topic on Hermit crabs.

Lecture:

Hermit crabs are crustaceans known for their unique habit of adopting discarded mollusk shells as portable homes, protecting their soft abdomens. Found in oceans worldwide, from shallow waters to deep seas, these crabs demonstrate remarkable adaptability by changing shells as they grow. Their diet varies widely, including algae, small invertebrates, and detritus. Hermit crabs play a crucial role in marine ecosystems by scavenging and aiding in nutrient cycling. Despite their popularity as pets, human activities such as habitat destruction and pollution pose threats to their populations. Conservation efforts focus on preserving coastal habitats and raising awareness about responsible shell collecting practices.

Question: How do hermit crabs protect their soft abdomens, and what role do they play in marine ecosystems?

Answer:

Hermit crabs protect their soft abdomens by adopting discarded mollusk shells, which serve as portable homes. As they grow, they switch shells to accommodate their increasing size. In marine ecosystems, hermit crabs are essential scavengers, feeding on algae, small invertebrates, and detritus, thus contributing to nutrient cycling. They also serve as prey for various predators, maintaining balance in the food web. Despite their adaptability, human activities threaten hermit crab populations through habitat destruction and pollution. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and promoting sustainable practices to ensure their continued role in marine biodiversity.

TOEFL Listening Section

Section 1: Conversation between Two People

Transcript:

Anna: Did you hear about Tamil Nadu leading India with 16 Ramsar sites?

Ben: That’s impressive! What makes these sites significant?

Anna: They highlight ecological richness and biodiversity, crucial for our environment and livelihoods.

Ben: The recent additions like Longwood Shola Reserve Forest and Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary show their commitment.

Anna: Exactly. These sites are designated under international treaties for sustainable wetland use.

Ben: It’s great to see such dedication to conservation. How does it benefit biodiversity?

Anna: It helps preserve habitats and supports diverse ecosystems, essential for our planet’s health.

Ben: Tamil Nadu sets a great example for environmental stewardship.

Anna: Absolutely, Ben. It’s vital for sustainable development and protecting our natural heritage.

Questions:

Question 1: How many Ramsar sites does Tamil Nadu currently have?

A) 10

B) 16

C) 20

D) 25

Answer: B) 16

Question 2: What do Ramsar sites highlight?

A) Cultural heritage sites

B) Ecological importance and biodiversity richness

C) Industrial zones

D) Urban development projects

Answer: B) Ecological importance and biodiversity richness

Question 3: What recent additions were mentioned in Tamil Nadu’s Ramsar sites?

A) Vandalur Wildlife Sanctuary

B) Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary

C) Longwood Shola Reserve Forest and Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary

D) Annamalai Tiger Reserve

Answer: C) Longwood Shola Reserve Forest and Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary

Question 4: What is the primary focus of Ramsar sites?

A) Industrial growth

B) Agricultural productivity

C) Sustainable wetland use and biodiversity protection

D) Urban expansion

Answer: C) Sustainable wetland use and biodiversity protection

Question 5: What does Tamil Nadu’s leadership in Ramsar sites indicate?

A) Focus on urban planning

B) Commitment to environmental conservation

C) Promotion of industrialization

D) Agricultural development

Answer: B) Commitment to environmental conservation

Section 2: Lecture

Transcript:

The Southern Hemisphere refers to the half of the Earth south of the equator, encompassing diverse continents such as Australia, Antarctica, most of South America, and parts of Africa. Characterized by unique climatic patterns opposite to those of the Northern Hemisphere, it experiences summer when the Northern Hemisphere has winter and vice versa. The Southern Hemisphere plays a crucial role in global climate regulation and biodiversity, hosting iconic ecosystems like the Amazon Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. Its distinct geography and natural wonders contribute significantly to global ecological balance and scientific understanding of Earth’s diverse environments.

Questions:

Question 1: Which of the following continents is primarily located in the Southern Hemisphere?

A) Europe

B) Asia

C) Australia

D) North America

Answer: C) Australia

Question 2: When it is summer in the Northern Hemisphere, what season is experienced in the Southern Hemisphere?

A) Winter

B) Spring

C) Summer

D) Autumn

Answer: A) Winter

Question 3: Which iconic ecosystem is located in the Southern Hemisphere?

A) Sahara Desert

B) Amazon Rainforest

C) Rocky Mountains

D) Great Barrier Reef

Answer: D) Great Barrier Reef

Question 4: What role does the Southern Hemisphere play in global climate regulation?

A) It has no significant impact on global climate.

B) It experiences more extreme weather than the Northern Hemisphere.

C) It helps balance global temperature by counteracting seasonal changes.

D) It causes global warming due to its unique climatic patterns.

Answer: C) It helps balance global temperature by counteracting seasonal changes.

Question 5: Which hemisphere experiences summer during December?

A) Both Northern and Southern Hemispheres

B) Northern Hemisphere

C) Southern Hemisphere

D) Neither hemisphere

Answer: C) Southern Hemisphere

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