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A Guide To English Proficiency Tests - Academic Positions
A Guide To English Proficiency Tests - Academic Positions
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CAREER ADVICE
International students applying to programs taught in English must provide proof their of English proficiency as part of their
applications. This ensures that they have the necessary English skills to understand academic writing, produce scholarly writing,
and communicate effectively with their supervisor. Here is an overview of the four most widely-accepted English proficiency tests:
the TOEFL, the IELTS, the CAE, and the CPE.
TOEFL
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is probably the best-known and most commonly used English proficiency test.
Along with the IELTS, it is one of the two tests that are usually accepted by American universities. The TOEFL was designed
specifically to test knowledge of English as it is used in a college or university setting.
Length
Four hours
Format
There are currently two formats: the internet-based test (iBT) and a new paper-delivered test that replaces the old paper-based
test which is no longer administered. The internet-based test is done entirely on a computer, including the speaking portion of the
test. Answers are recorded and evaluated by the graders.
Sections
Scoring
Each section is worth 30 points for a maximum score of 120. Scores are good for two years.
Many universities require scores in the range of 90-100, which is equivalent to B2 in the Common European Framework
(CEF) proficiency levels. Some universities also require a minimum score in each section in addition to a minimum overall score.
Price
The cost of the test varies according to location, but $200 USD is average.
Where
You canThis
register to take
website the
uses TOEFL at your nearest test centre.
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IELTS-Academic Version
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is widely recognized by universities and employers around the world.
There are two versions of the test: an academic version and a general training version. While universities require the academic
version, the general training version is used by some government bodies for work and immigration permits.
Length
Three hours
Format
Unlike the TOEFL, the speaking portion of the IELTS is done in person with an examiner. The IELTS has more diverse question
formats as well, with a mix of multiple choice, diagram labelling, matching, short answer, and sentence completion.
Sections
Listening (40 minutes), reading (60 minutes), writing (60 minutes), and speaking (11-14 minutes)
Scoring
Scores range from 1 to 9 including half scores. The results are delivered within 13 days of taking the test and are valid for two years.
Many universities require scores in the range of 6-7, which is equivalent to B2/C1 in the CEF proficiency levels.
Price
$240 USD
Where
You can register to take the test at your local testing centre.
How often
Testing centres usually offer the IELTS twice a month on the weekends.
CAE
The Cambridge exams are not as common globally as the TOEFL or IELTS, however they are often required for admission to UK
universities. The Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) is best suited to someone who is already confident in their English
communication. As the name implies, it is an advanced test accepted as proof of C1 level English (equivalent to a score of 7-8 on the
IELTS or 110-120 on the TOEFL).
Length
Four hours
Format
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The test can be done in person or on the computer, though not all test centres offer both versions. The questions are a mix of
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multiple choice, fill in the blanks, and matching. The speaking test is done in person with another test taker and two examiners. One
examiner conducts the test while the other evaluates you and the other test taker.
Sections
Reading and use of English (90 minutes), writing (90 minutes), listening (40 minutes), speaking (15 minutes)
Scoring
Test takers can earn a grade of (from lowest to highest) B2, C, B, or A. C is the lowest passing grade and those who score a B or A will
earn a C1 Advanced certificate. This certificate and score do not expire.
Price
Where
You can take the CAE at your nearest test centre. Both the paper-based and computer-based test can be done monthly.
How often
CPE
The Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English is most advanced of these four exams. Like the CAE, this exam is often used in
UK university admissions. It tests knowledge of English at the C2 level (equivalent to a score of 8.5-9 on the IELTS and above the
maximum score of the TOEFL).
Length
Four hours
Format
The test can be done in person or on the computer, though not all test centres offer both versions. The questions are a mix of
multiple choice, fill in the blanks, and matching. The speaking test is done in person with another test taker and two examiners. One
examiner conducts the test while the other evaluates you and the other test taker.
Sections
Reading and use of English (90 minutes), writing (90 minutes), listening (40 minutes), and speaking (16 minutes)
Scoring
Test takers can earn a grade of (from lowest to highest) C1, C, B, or A. C is the lowest passing grade and those who score a B or A will
earn a C2 Proficiency certificate. This certificate and score do not expire.
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Price
Where
You can register and take the test at your nearest test centre.
How often
This test is only offered twice per year in June and December.
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By Academic Positions
· Published 2019-10-23
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