It’s normal to have many questions when you first learn that you must take your best language proficiency tests and start looking into your possibilities.
Which language proficiency test is the easiest out of the bunch? Which examinations are computer-based? Which language proficiency test yields results quickly? It is obvious that before making your decision, you will need to weigh the salient characteristics of each exam carefully.
You must consider elements like distribution method, evaluation criteria, test format, dependability, and recognition.
It’s important to remember that certain objectives may call for a different English proficiency exam. For example, suppose your study objective is to get into an elite Ivy League institution. In that case, exams like the TOEFL and IELTS, which assess your English language competency appropriate for a classroom setting, should assist you in achieving it.
It is no longer true to say that the TOEFL is the best English proficiency exam if you wish to study in the US. Since the IELTS Academic exam is similar, more than 3,400 US programs and institutions, including Ivy League schools, accept it to verify English language proficiency.
One possible option for working overseas, studying abroad, or training below a degree level is to sit for one of the most widely used, broadly targeted English proficiency exams. These exams often test your English ability in real-world, everyday situations.
Recommended Language Proficiency Test (English Proficiency Test)
IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC, CELPIP, and the Cambridge English Qualifications, which include KET, PET, FCE, CAE, and CPE, are the most widely used English proficiency exams. Nevertheless, IELTS and TOEFL stand out given their widespread recognition and acceptance by several organizations in English-speaking and non-English-speaking nations.
Tests of English competence are very often utilized in the workplace. Test results are used by organizations, employers, and professional bodies to assist them in choosing the best candidates. Therefore, doing well on these exams might significantly improve your employment prospects. An outline of the most widely used English proficiency exams is provided below:
1. IELTS
An assessment of English language proficiency is called IELTS. The International English Language Testing System, or IELTS for short, evaluates a person’s language proficiency to place them in study or employment settings where English is the primary language of communication.
It is the most widely used English language competency exam globally for international migration and higher education, recognized by more than 12,000 organizations globally. Go here to learn more about the IELTS.
The test has four components: speaking, writing, listening, and reading. An overall score is determined by taking the individual scores from each category. Band scores from 1 (the lowest) to 9 (the highest) are used to report the results. IELTS test results are valid for two years after the exam date.
IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training are the two accessible IELTS exams. Your goals will determine which test you must take. IELTS Academic captures elements of academic language and assesses whether your level of English language competence is appropriate for an educational setting.
Conversely, IELTS General Training assesses English language competency in a real-world, everyday setting. Of course, the divisions and activities mirror social and professional contexts.
There are over 800 approved British Council IELTS test centres worldwide, all conveniently placed and providing state-of-the-art amenities, so you can take the exam anywhere.
2. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
The Test of English as a Foreign Language, or TOEFL, is one of the best language proficiency tests and a well-known English proficiency exam in the United States. It is recognized by colleges and organizations worldwide.
The Center for Applied Linguistics in Washington, DC, created the exam at first. The exam’s language closely mimics regular academic contexts, and its integrated activities and full academic content are tested.
This exam assesses the four fundamental language abilities of speaking, writing, reading, and listening, just like the IELTS. To learn more about IELTS vs TOEFL, go here.
There are now three options for taking the TOEFL iBT exam: on paper, at home, or a testing facility. The TOEFL iBT Home Edition is an exam you take from the comforts of your home, exactly like you would at a testing facility.
TOEFL iBT Paper Edition is a two-session test that covers the same four abilities as the online version. The remaining three components are paper-based and administered in a testing centre, while the speaking portion is completed on a computer at home.
The maximum score on the TOEFL exam is 120, with each component having a scoring range of 0 to 30. Your test results are good for two years.
3. TOEIC (English for International Communication Test)
The Test of English for International Communication, or TOEIC, evaluates your business communication abilities. Adding the reading and hearing scores yields a total test score of 990, comparable to the C1 level of the CEFR. The oral and written portions of the test are scored differently. The validity of TOEIC exam results is two years, much like other tests.
Companies, multinational enterprises, and international and governmental entities all around the globe highly appreciate the exam since it enables you to demonstrate your capacity to interact worldwide with coworkers and clients. For instance, businesses in the aviation industry frequently utilize it to assess the English proficiency of their staff.
4. CELPIP (English Language Proficiency Index Program for Canadians)
Canada’s most popular general English proficiency exam is the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program, or CELPIP. It evaluates your English proficiency in various real-world contexts and is primarily used for professional and immigration purposes. CELPIP – General Test (3 hours) and CELPIP – General LS Test (1 hour) are the two test kinds offered.
The shorter version of the exam covers speaking and listening, whereas the extended version covers all four language abilities. Regarding the substance of the test, CELPIP favours North American English. For example, the hearing portion of CELPIP exclusively uses North American accents, in contrast to IELTS hearing, which includes speakers from various English-speaking nations.
Additionally, the speaking portion of the CELPIP test is administered entirely online, using a computer to record your responses to questions.
5. KET, PET, FCE, CAE, and CPE (English for Cambridge)
Cambridge English, a division of Cambridge University, created these exams of English competence. Thousands of employers, academic institutions, and government agencies worldwide accept them to verify English proficiency.
The fact that the test results for these English proficiency exams are valid for life and have no expiration date makes them special.
Let’s examine each of the Cambridge English certifications in more detail.
- The Key English Test, or KET, measures your proficiency in using the language for basic conversation in primary school.
- The PET, or preliminary English test, is an intermediate-level assessment appropriate for people with everyday language proficiency.
- The First Certificate of English, or FCE, is an exam that can demonstrate your language proficiency for living and working freely in an English-speaking nation or for enrolling in English-taught courses.
- The CAE (Certificate in Advanced English) is a comprehensive, advanced credential that demonstrates you possess the language proficiency that colleges and companies value.
- Cambridge English’s highest level qualification is the CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English). It demonstrates your ability to converse with the intelligence and fluency of a native English speaker.
Comparison of English Proficiency Tests
You can use the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). This international standard defines language ability, as a benchmark to create some understanding even if the outcomes of various English proficiency exams are not directly comparable.
How to pick the appropriate English language competency exam for you
As you might expect, your best test will depend on why you take an English proficiency exam. In light of this, we’ve listed several potential outcomes below.
Scenario 1: I want to attend a university in either Canada or the United States.
IELTS is one of the best language proficiency tests and the world’s most widely used English proficiency exam for international mobility and higher education. Major US universities acknowledge that the IELTS accurately shows your proficiency in understanding and speaking English.
The top 25 institutions in the nation, all Ivy League universities, and programs at the top 50 US universities with the highest percentage of overseas students all trust the IELTS exam results. Since the TOEFL is an American test, it is also widely accepted by US educational institutions.
In Canada, the IELTS exam is also a widely chosen option. Indeed, it is the preferred English language exam for Canadian universities and colleges.
Scenario 2: I’d want to work and study in New Zealand, Australia, or the United Kingdom.
IELTS has a solid reputation in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand and can help you get opportunities. The top educational establishments in these nations acknowledge the exam’s excellent standards and dependability. IELTS can assist you in meeting your needs, whether for job placement or admission to a school.
The job and education sectors in these English-speaking nations have extremely high requirements. Learning a language allows you to develop future-ready abilities and train efficiently in a multicultural setting.
One way to differentiate yourself from the competition is to demonstrate your English ability using one of the most reliable exams available.
Situation 3: I’d like to be employed by a global corporation.
The most widely used English proficiency exams for employment are TOEFL, TOEIC, and IELTS. Businesses understand that some sections of assessments, such as the IELTS, might aid in the proper selection of people.
Therefore, getting strong scores on one of these examinations might significantly improve your job prospects if you wish to work for a business organization with a global presence.
IELTS is used by a wide range of companies in industries, including banking, government, construction, energy, aviation, and tourism, to find candidates with the necessary language proficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which are the best language proficiency tests?
The best language proficiency tests often depend on individual needs and goals. However, widely recognized tests include the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS (International English Language Testing System), Cambridge English exams, and the PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English).
2. What are the top 5 English language tests?
The top 5 English language tests are commonly considered to be TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge English exams (including C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency), PTE Academic, and the TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication).
3. What is the most recognized English proficiency test?
The IELTS and TOEFL are among the most recognized English proficiency tests globally. Both are widely accepted by academic institutions, employers, and immigration authorities in English-speaking countries.
4. Which language certification is best?
Determining the best language certification depends on individual objectives. For academic purposes, IELTS and TOEFL are commonly preferred, while Cambridge English exams may be suitable for those seeking a broader proficiency certification.
5. Is there any English proficiency test for free?
While most reputable English proficiency tests require payment, there are free options available, such as Duolingo English Test. However, it’s essential to note that the recognition and acceptance of free tests may vary among institutions and organizations.
6. What is the most popular language proficiency test?
IELTS and TOEFL are considered the most popular language proficiency tests globally. They are widely recognized by universities, employers, and immigration authorities, making them preferred choices for individuals aiming to demonstrate their English language skills.
7. Are there specialized language proficiency tests for specific purposes?
Explore specialized language proficiency tests tailored for specific purposes, such as the Business English Certificate (BEC) for business professionals or the Occupational English Test (OET) for healthcare professionals. These tests assess language skills in context, catering to specific industries.
8. What are the differences between the TOEFL and IELTS exams?
Provide a detailed comparison of the TOEFL and IELTS exams, covering aspects such as test format, scoring, and the types of English language skills assessed. This information can help individuals choose the test that aligns better with their preferences and needs.
9. Are there alternative language proficiency assessments besides the traditional tests?
Discuss innovative language proficiency assessments, such as language portfolios or immersive language experiences, as alternatives to traditional tests. Highlight their advantages and limitations, offering individuals a broader perspective on demonstrating language skills.
10. How often can one take a language proficiency test?
Clarify the frequency limitations imposed by testing organizations. Most tests allow candidates to take them multiple times, but there may be waiting periods between attempts. Provide guidance on effective preparation strategies for reattempting tests.
These additional questions offer a more comprehensive overview of language proficiency tests, covering aspects like specialized assessments, alternative options, and considerations for retaking exams.
Final Words
You’ve learned enough from this page to ask yourself the proper questions and select the most appropriate English proficiency exam. IELTS offers a few more benefits in addition to the distinctive qualities that set each of the exams on this list apart and make them desirable.
It may assess English competence at the C2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), in addition to being the world’s most widely recognized English proficiency exam.
IELTS is a fair and impartial test since its material is also internationally focused, drawing from publications from around the English-speaking globe for texts and exercises. Consult with our study and work abroad specialist for further assistance, to increase your chances of being accepted into institutions.