International applicants for English-taught programs are required to submit documentation of their English competence as part of their applications. This guarantees that students possess the English language proficiency needed to comprehend academic writing, produce scholarly writing, and effectively interact with their supervisor. International English Test (IET), The TOEFL, the IELTS, the CAE, and the CPE are the most popular English proficiency exams. Here is a summary of each.
TOEFL
The most well-known and widely utilized English proficiency test is likely the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). It is one of the two exams that American institutions typically accept along with the IELTS. English proficiency as it is used in a college or university setting is the only purpose for which the TOEFL was created. The TOEFL iBT is the current exam.
Length: 30 minutes
Format: The TOEFL iBT is currently available in three different formats: the conventional testing center format, the home edition, or a paper edition. The TOEFL is fully computer-based and can be taken at home or in a testing facility, with the exception of the paper version. Your responses to the test’s speaking section are recorded and transmitted to graders for analysis.
Sections: Writing, speaking, listening, and reading
Scoring: A score of 120 is possible with a maximum of 30 points for each component. The validity of a score is two years.
Scores: Scores in the 90–100 range, or B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) competency scale, are sometimes required by institutions. In addition to a minimum overall score, some universities also demand a minimum score in each area.
Price: The price of the test varies depending on where you are, however it typically costs $200 USD.
Where: You can sign up to take the TOEFL online or at the testing facility that is closest to you.
How often: The test can be taken at home or in testing facilities up to six times each week.
Top English Test!
International English Test (IET)
Companies, universities and employers all across the world accept the International English Test (IET).
Length: 30 minutes
Format:Â The online test can be taken on a computer, tablet or telephone. Multiple choice, fill in the blanks, and matching are all used in the questions.
Sections: Reading and using English
Scoring: Range from A1 to C2. Test takers can receive a grade of B2, C, B, or A (from lowest to highest). A C or B will get you a Certificate in Advanced English at Level C1, the lowest passing grade. Anyone who receives an A will receive a Certificate in Advanced English, which attests to their proficiency at the C2 level. This score and certificate are perpetual.
English Levels
- A1 – Beginner
- A2 – Elementary
- B1 – Intermediate
- B2 – Upper-Indermediate
- C1 – Advanced
- C2 – Proficient
Price: Test free, certificate costs.
Where: You can sign up to take the exam online.
How often: The test is online: Anywhere, anytime
Frequently needed score: For entrance, most colleges demand a B or above.
What is your English level?
Find out your A1 A2 B1 B2 C1 C2 level of English with our online test and receive your English certificate.
Cambridge English Test
The most difficult of these four tests is the C2 Proficiency test. This exam, like the C1 Advanced exam, is frequently utilized for UK university applications. It evaluates C2 level English proficiency (equivalent to a score of 8.5-9 on the IELTS and above the maximum score of the TOEFL).
Length: Four hours roughly
Format: The test can be taken on paper or a computer, though not all testing facilities offer both options. Multiple choice, fill in the blanks, and matching are all used in the questions. Speaking assessments are given face-to-face in pairs by two examiners and one other test taker. While the other examiner examines you and the other test taker, one examiner administers the test.
Sections: Writing (90 minutes), listening (40 minutes), speaking (90 minutes), and reading and using English (16 minutes)
Scoring: Test takers can receive a grade of C1, C, B, or A (lowest to highest). The C2 Proficiency certificate is awarded to those who receive a C, B, or A, which is the minimum passing mark. This score and certificate are perpetual.
For entrance, most colleges want a C or above.
Price: The cost of the C2 Proficiency exam is about 240 euros.
Where: At the testing facility closest to you, you can register and take the exam.
How often: The computer-based test is given six times a year, whereas the paper-based test is given eight times.
TOEIC
The TOEIC is a communication-focused English language test that is frequently used in business. Companies, particularly in Asia, prefer employees to have a certain TOEIC score as proof that their English is fluent enough to communicate with and understand clients and coworkers who speak English.
Companies may require applicants to take the TOEIC test once when applying for a job or once every two years to demonstrate their English proficiency is still at the same level. TOEIC scores are typically regarded valid for two years.
OIC and OPPI
The spoken English fluency tests OPI and OPIC are used. To demonstrate their level of spoken English, they are frequently utilized in business or even by English teachers. The OPIC exam is an online test where students respond to computer-generated questions, while the OPI exam must be taken in front of an examiner.
If you are only interested in learning more about your English level and don’t need to evaluate other abilities, OPI and OPIC are good ways to assess your spoken fluency. Due to the examiner not having to go to the testing location, OPIC is significantly less expensive than OPI.
What is your English level?
Find out your A1 A2 B1 B2 C1 C2 level of English with our online test and receive your English certificate.
I am Nilay, an experienced English Language Assessment Director at the International English Test, where I have been working full-time since February 2020. I specialize in helping people worldwide validate their English proficiency through comprehensive assessments and certifications.
Before joining the International English Test, I worked as a self-employed English Language Assessment Consultant from January 2015 to December 2019. During this time, I assisted companies and individuals in improving their language skills, helping them achieve their academic and professional goals.
I hold a degree in Engineering and have also studied at Shafston International College in Australia. My educational background has equipped me with the tools to make a meaningful impact in the field of English language learning. Additionally, I enjoy sharing my expertise through articles that explore effective teaching methods and language assessment strategies, contributing to the International English Test and the broader assessment community.
