English Proficiency Tests

English Proficiency Tests: An Overview

• Content: English proficiency refers to a person's ability to communicate effectively in the English language.

• Image: A person reading, writing, speaking, and listening

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Understanding English Proficiency.

• Exam Format: Computer-based or paper-based.

• Test Types: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking.

• Exam Length: About 4 hours.

• Passing Grades: Varies by institution, no official "passing" score.

• Exam Fee: Around $180-$300 (varies by country).

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TOEFL
(Test of English as a Foreign Language)

• Exam Format: Paper-based.

• Test Types: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking.

• Exam Length: 2 hours 45 minutes.

• Passing Grades: Band score of 1-9, no official "passing" score.

• Exam Fee: Around $215-$245.

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IELTS
(International English Language Testing System)

• Exam Format: Computer-based.

• Test Types: Speaking & Writing, Listening, Reading.

• Exam Length: 3 hours.

• Passing Grades: Score range 10-90, no official "passing" score.

• Exam Fee: Around $150-$210 (varies by country).

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PTE Academic
(Pearson Test of English Academic)

• Exam Format: Paper-based.

• Test Types: Listening, Reading (separate Speaking & Writing test).

• Exam Length: 2 hours (Listening & Reading).

• Passing Grades: Score range 60-495 for each section.

• Exam Fee: Around $85 for each test.

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TOEIC
(Test of English for International Communication)

• Exam Format: Paper-based.

• Test Types: Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking.

• Exam Length: Varies by exam.

• Passing Grades: Varies by exam, typically A, B, C grades.

• Exam Fee: Around $150-$250 (varies by exam and region).

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Cambridge English Exams (e.g., FCE, CAE, CPE)

For academic, professional, and migration purposes. It's a globally recognized measure of English ability.

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​Why Take a Proficiency Test?

Consider your purpose, the institution's preference, test availability, and your budget.

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​Choosing the Right Test

English proficiency tests provide a standardized measure of English ability, essential for various opportunities worldwide.

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In Summary

Multiple Choice

What does "proficiency" mean?

• Cooking skills

• Ability to communicate

• Painting skills

• Ability to run fast

Multiple Choice

Which test is computer-based?

• IELTS

• TOEFL

• TOEIC

• Painting

Multiple Choice

How long is the IELTS exam?

• 1 hour

• 2 hours

• 3 hours

• 2 hours 45 minutes

Multiple Choice

Why do people take English tests?

• To buy food

• To watch movies

• For school or work

• To play games