English Proficiency Exam Guide

English Proficiency Exam is one of the core requirements for studying abroad. As part of the application process universities evaluate student’s English proficiency through specialized English language tests. The most popular and recognized tests are IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE. Scroll down to learn more about each of the English proficiency exams.

IELTS- The International English Language Testing System

IELTS is an examination to test a student's proficiency in English and IELTS academic is taken by students who are planning to study abroad i.e. for their undergrad or higher studies. IELTS is a universally accepted English proficiency test.

It is accepted by universities and colleges in the UK, US, Australia, New Zealand, and other European countries. Another benefit of taking IELTS is that it is also approved for the student visa procedures in various countries.

The IELTS scoring is out of the 9.0 band. Students can score with a whole number or 0.5. There is no negative marking on blank answers or wrong answers. Below is a chart that depicts the IELTS band ranges:

PTE- Pearson Test of English Academic

PTE is also known as the Pearson Test of English Academic is used to evaluate the English proficiency of students that want to study abroad.

The PTE is a computer-based test that uses AI to score students’ performance on the test. The students are tested on their written, spoken skills, and it’s used to determine if they are capable of studying in an international environment where English is the primary language of communication.

PTE is the latest English proficiency exam that is accepted by more than 1000 universities all over the world. Prominently the English-speaking countries like the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Along with universities, the Government of New Zealand, and Australia also accept PTE scores for the visa procedure.

The scores are marked between the band range 10-90. The ideal score that is accepted by many universities is from the 65-75 range. The results are published online and released within 5 working days from the date the exam is taken.

The below chart shows the PTE equivalent in the form of the IELTS score:

TOEFL- Test of English as a Foreign Language

TOEFL is the most recognized and taken examination. Most students opt for the TOEFL exam as it is widely accepted and more favorable by US and Canadian universities. So, for students that are keen on studying in these countries, it is better to take the TOEFL examinations. An added benefit is that students can apply for more scholarships and aids with TOEFL.

TOEFL even though is based on American English, is widely accepted by over 11,000 universities all over the US, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, and across Europe and Asia.

TOEFL is a computer-based examination that examines student’s basic English speaking, writing, reading, and listening communication. The overall test is out of 120 and the average score accepted is around 90.

Students receive their TOEFL scores after 10 days of the exam. They will receive an email notifying them and instructing them on who to access their results. Students can directly send their TOEFL results to their universities.

Here is the TOEFL scoring division:

To summarise...

English proficiency exams are essential for studying wanting to pursue their education abroad. You can choose the test suitable for you based on the country and university requirements.

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