English proficiency tests evaluate your ability to use English in both academic and practical everyday situations. These tests assess listening, reading, writing and speaking skills and are used by universities, organisations and immigration authorities abroad where English is the primary mode of communication.
With several types of English proficiency tests available, it is important to understand which tests are widely recognised and accepted globally to ensure a smooth application process.
Check your English proficiency level
Types of English Proficiency Tests
Here are some of the most common English proficiency tests:
IELTS: The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an English language test designed to help you study, work or migrate to a country where English is the native language.
TOEFL: Students take the TOEFL test to prepare for university, immigration, etc.
Cambridge English Exams: The Cambridge English tests are a collection of English certification examinations for different levels of proficiency based on the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference), whose results do not expire. These include A2 Key, B1 Preliminary for Schools, B2 First for Schools, C1 Advanced, and C2 Proficiency.
CELPIP: The CELPIP test evaluates your English proficiency in various everyday situations and is primarily used for Canadian immigration and professional purposes.
PTE: PTE Academic is an English language test designed to assess your English language proficiency for academic purposes.
Reasons to take the English Language Proficiency Test
Taking an English language proficiency test is essential while planning to move abroad if English is not your first language. Moreover, below are a few more reasons why you should take the English language proficiency test.
Applying to College/University: Almost all colleges and universities abroad, where English is theprimary language, require the results of an English language proficiency test as a part of their application process. These tests help evaluate a student’s ability to communicate and study in English.
Visa Application: Most countries require a minimum band score on the English language proficiency test before granting a visa. This helps the authorities evaluate the applicant’s ability to communicate effectively in everyday life.
Enhance Career and Job Opportunities: Achieving a good band score on the English language test can help ensure seamless communication within the academic environment. This, in turn, contributes to enhancing social skills, the prospects of securing internships, and the expansion of one's professional network. Companies usually require candidates with strong interpersonal and communication skills. Thus, being proficient in English helps the candidate excel in the corporate sector and increases the chances of success.
Enhance Social Skills: Preparing and improving your English skills for the IELTS exam will help you communicate more effectively in social settings, feel more comfortable engaging in conversations, and better understand social cues and humour.
Why Choose IELTS?
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an internationally recognised English language proficiency test that is accepted by over 12,000 organisations worldwide. It is designed to assess an individual’s English language skills for studying or working in an environment where English is the primary language of communication. IELTS is recognised and accepted in over 150 countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, Germany, Australia, Ireland and New Zealand.
The IELTS test comprises four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each section receives an individual score contributing to the overall IELTS band score, ranging from 0 (the lowest) to 9 (the highest). IELTS scores remain valid for two years from the test date.
IELTS is available in two formats: IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. The appropriate test for an individual depends on their specific goals. IELTS Academic assesses English language proficiency in an academic context, reflecting academic language demands. IELTS General Training evaluates English proficiency in everyday practical situations, encompassing workplace and social scenarios.
The IELTS's Academic and General Training versions share the same Speaking and Listening tests, while the Reading and Writing components differ. Ensure you choose the test type that aligns with your objectives.
Any IELTS test's Listening, Reading, and Writing sections are conducted on the same day. However, you can schedule your Speaking test up to a week before or after the other sections. The total length of the test is 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Over 4 million test takers trust IELTS to help them achieve their dream of studying and working abroad every year.
English Language Proficiency Test Comparison
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is a universally recognised standard for measuring language proficiency. It employs a six-level scale to categorise language abilities, with C2 representing the highest level, signifying mastery of a language, and A1 representing the lowest level. This framework provides a common ground for comparing language proficiency across different languages and educational contexts.
Test/Level | A1 | A2 | B1 | B2 | C1 | C2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
IELTS | - | - | 4.0-5.0 | 5.5-6.5 | 7.0-8.0 | 8.5-9.0 |
TOEFL | - | - | 42-71 | 71-94 | 95-120 | 115-120 |
A2 Key | 100-119 | 120-139 | 140-150 | - | - | - |
B2 First for Schools | - | - | 140-159 | 160-179 | 180-190 | - |
C1 Advanced | - | - | - | 160-179 | 180-199 | 200-210 |
C2 Proficiency | - | - | - | - | 180-199 | 200-230 |
TOEIC | 120-234 | 235-549 | 550-784 | 785-944 | 945-990 | - |
CELPIP | - | 4 | 5 | 6,7 | 8,9 | 10-12 |
PTE | 43-58 | 59-68 | 69-78 | 79-84 | 85-90 | - |
How do you choose the ideal English proficiency test?
To help you make the right choice, we've outlined some common scenarios and the corresponding test recommendations:
Scenario 1: Aspiring to Study in the US or Canada
For those seeking higher education opportunities in the US or Canada, IELTS is the world's most widely accepted and recognised English proficiency test for academic purposes. Over 3,400 renowned institutions across the USA, including all Ivy League colleges, acknowledge IELTS as a reliable indicator of English language comprehension and communication skills. IELTS is equally prevalent in Canada, serving as the preferred English proficiency test nationwide by universities and colleges.
Scenario 2: Pursuing Work and Study Opportunities in the UK, Australia, or New Zealand
IELTS is a trusted and recognised English proficiency test across the UK, Australia, and New Zealand that can unlock doors to various opportunities. Leading educational institutions in these countries value the test's high standards and reliability, making it a valuable asset for securing admission or employment.
In these English-speaking countries, the education and employment sectors require fluency in the English language. English proficiency enables individuals to train effectively in a multicultural environment and acquire essential skills for the future. Demonstrating your English proficiency through a trusted test like IELTS can provide a significant competitive advantage.
Scenario 3: Embarking on a Career with a Multinational Company
While there are other proficiency tests, IELTS is the most widely recognised English proficiency test for work purposes. Companies recognise that specific components of IELTS can aid in selecting the most suitable candidates. Therefore, achieving a strong score can significantly enhance your employment prospects in a multinational corporation with a global presence. Many employers across various sectors, including finance, government, construction, energy, aviation, and tourism, rely on IELTS to identify individuals with the necessary language skills.
Scenario 4: Building a Career in International Business
Business organisations are increasingly turning to offshoring and outsourcing business processes. This trend has made it more important for companies to hire employees who can speak more than one language. Additionally, English proficiency facilitates entry into new markets and expansion opportunities for organisations.
Suppose you aspire to build a career in international business. In that case, demonstrating your English proficiency through a test like IELTS, which assesses language skills in academic and practical contexts, will be a significant advantage.
Scenario 5: Evaluating Your English Language Level
If your primary goal is to determine your current level of English proficiency, IELTS is an excellent choice. Moreover, IDP IELTS offers a comprehensive range of free preparation materials, including practice test samples, practice test videos, and handy test tips.
Summary
Studying abroad helps an individual discover several academic and career opportunities. When preparing for an international education, it is important to select an English language proficiency test that can help improve the chances of being selected. IELTS is the most trusted and preferred test globally, and it has helped millions of applicants achieve their dream of studying or working abroad.