English Proficiency Tests: A Guide
International students applying to programmes taught in English must provide proof of English proficiency as part of their applications. This confirms that they have the essential English skills to understand academic writing, produce scholarly writing, and communicate effectively with their supervisor. Here is an overview of the two most widely accepted English proficiency tests: The TOEFL and IELTS
TOEFL
The most well-known and generally practised 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.
Test Duration: 3 hours
Format
The TOEFL iBT is currently available in three different formats: the conventional testing centre 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: Speaking, Writing, Listening, and Reading
Each segment is worth 30 points for a maximum score of 120. Results are valid for two years.
Commonly required score: The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) competency levels, or B2, are equivalent to scores in the 90–100 range, which many colleges require. A minimum overall score and a minimum score in each section are both requirements at some universities.
How often: You can take the exam at home or at testing facilities up to six times each week.
Where: You have the option of signing up at home or at the TOEFL test centre that is closest to you.
Price: The test generally costs $200 USD but can vary depending on where you are.
IELTS-Academic Version
IELTS Academic Version
Universities and employers all across the world accept the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The test is available in two versions: an academic version and a version for general training. While colleges demand the academic version, certain government agencies provide job and immigration permits using the general training version.
Test Duration: 2 hours and 45 minutes
IELTS test is accessible in both paper-based and computer-based formats. IELTS speaking is done in-person with an examiner, unlike the TOEFL, and can be done up to three days before or after the other components of the test. Additionally, the question types on the IELTS are more varied, including a combination of multiple choice, diagram labelling, matching, short answers, and sentence completion.
Sections: Listening for 30 minutes, reading for 60 minutes, writing for 60 minutes, and speaking for 11–14 minutes
Scoring: Scores are valid for two years and range from 1 to 9 (including half scores).
Commonly required score: Scores in the range of 6-7, which are equivalent to B2/C1 in the CEF proficiency levels, are frequently needed by institutions.
Price: Approximately $245 USD
Where: You can sign up to take the exam at a nearby testing facility.
How often: IELTS tests are often offered on the weekends twice a month at testing centres.
