ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a case study of a large, well-known education agency in China. Specifically, the chapter tests for the instructional effectiveness of the agency’s Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) support tutoring service. Comparing TOEFL scores in a pre-test/post-test format, TOEFL scores were significantly increased after receiving tutoring instruction. In addition, the chapter provides an insider’s view into the inner workings of this private tutoring service. By identifying agents’ roles in the test preparation process and their service efficacy, the chapter may inform students and their families, educators, admission professionals, and others interested in international student admissions and recruitment and enhance the effectiveness of working with agents.
