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. The current test is called TOEFL iBT.
Length
Three hours
Format
There are currently three format options for the TOEFL iBT: the traditional testing centre format, the home edition, or a paper edition. With the exception of the paper edition, the TOEFL is done entirely on a computer either at your home or at a testing centre. Your answers to the speaking portion of the test are recorded and then sent to graders for evaluation.
Sections
Reading , listening , speaking, and writing
Scoring
Each section is worth 30 points for a maximum score of 120. Scores are good for two years.
Commonly required score
Many universities require scores in the range of 90-100, which is equivalent to B2 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) 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 can register to take the TOEFL at your nearest test centre or at home.
How often
The test is administered up to six times a week at test centres or at home.
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
Two hours and 45 minutes
Format
The test is offered in either a paper format or a computer format. Unlike the TOEFL, the speaking portion of the IELTS is done in person with an examiner either on the same day as the other sections of the test or up to three days before or after. 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 (30 minutes), reading (60 minutes), writing (60 minutes), and speaking (11-14 minutes)
Scoring
Scores range from 1 to 9 (including half scores) and are valid for two years.
Commonly required score
Many universities require scores in the range of 6-7, which is equivalent to B2/C1 in the CEF proficiency levels.
Price
Around $245 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.
C1 Advanced, formerly called Cambridge English: Advanced (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 C1 Advanced exam 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
The test is either paper based or computer based, 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 in pairs 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 per pair)
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 C or B will earn a Certificate in Advanced English at Level C1. Those who score an A will earn a Certificate in Advanced English showing that you demonstrated ability at the C2 level. This certificate and score do not expire.
Commonly required score
Most universities require a grade of B or higher for admission.
Price
The C1 Advanced exam costs around 150€-175€.
Where
You can take the C1 Advanced exam at your nearest test centre.
How often
The paper based test is offered 22 times a year and the computer based test is offered 19 times a year.
C2 Proficiency, formerly called Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)
The C2 Proficiency exam is most advanced of these four exams. Like the C1 Advanced exam, 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
About four hours
Format
The test is either paper based or computer based, 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 in pairs 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 C,B, or A will earn a C2 Proficiency certificate. This certificate and score do not expire.
Commonly required score
Most universities require a grade of C or higher for admission.
Price
The C2 Proficiency exam costs around 240€.
Where
You can register and take the test at your nearest test centre.
How often
The paper based test is offered 8 times a year and the computer based test is offered 6 times a year.
