JEELL (Journal of English Education, Linguistics and Literature)
Vol. 12 No. 3 (2025): JEELL Volume 12 Number 3 Oktober 2025

ROADBLOCKS TO PROFICIENCY: TOEFL READING COMPREHENSION CHALLENGES FOR UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Agung Wicaksono (Universitas Nusantara PGRI Kediri)
Sulistyani Sulistyani (Universitas Nusantara PGRI Kediri)
Suhartono (Universitas Nusantara PGRI Kediri)
Khoiriyah (Universitas Nusantara PGRI Kediri)
Mahendra Puji Permana Aji (Universitas Nusantara PGRI Kediri)



Article Info

Publish Date
23 Oct 2025

Abstract

This research examines the challenges university students encounter in the TOEFL reading comprehension section driven by low TOEFL proficiency among students. using a qualitative approach, the study identifies key difficulties learners face and the factors behind these struggles. data were gathered through questionnaires administered to 35 English language Education undergraduates at the University of Nusantara PGRI Kediri in East java, Indonesia. The questionnaire data were analyzed through cleaning, organizing, and interpreting responses to extract meaningful insights. The analysis of the responses revealed common obstacles, such as insufficient vocabulary, trouble with complex sentence structures, ineffective reading strategies, poor time management, and limited exposure to academic texts. Additionally, students cited anxiety and low confidence as psychological hurdles impacting their performance. The results indicate that both language proficiency and test-taking strategies significantly influence students' success in TOEFL reading comprehension. The study emphasizes the importance of modifying reading instruction to enhance academic reading skills and test preparation strategies, thereby better preparing students for standardized English proficiency exams. 

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Journal Info

Abbrev

files

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Other

Description

JEELL (Journal of English Education, Linguistics, and Literature) is intended to accommodate the scientific results on English Language Education, Linguistics, and Literature studies. JEELL is published by LPPM Universitas PGRI Jombang, East Java, Indonesia. It is a fully open-access peer review ...