English Proficiency Tests: A Complete Guide

English proficiency tests are your gateway to studying, working, or immigrating to English-speaking countries. These assessments evaluate one's ability to understand, speak, read, and write in English.

In this context, two of the most widely acknowledged tests are the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Understanding the nuances of each test and making an informed choice is crucial for success.

Students worldwide take different English proficiency tests, such as IELTS, TOEIC, TOEFL, CELPIP, and the Cambridge English Qualifications to gain admission to their dream universities and colleges. These universities have set requirements for English proficiency that must be fulfilled.

Besides universities, employers, professional bodies, and associations mainly rely upon English proficiency tests to recruit the right people. These tests assure the institution and organisation that you can communicate with your classmates, professors, or office colleagues. 

Head over below to go through some popular English proficiency tests in detail. 

Starting with IELTS, The International English Language Testing System, tailored for evaluating English skills among students who wish to study or work in English-speaking countries like the USA, UK, Canada, etc. 

Aside from being recognised by over 12,000 organisations worldwide, it is the most popular English proficiency test worldwide. IELTS is a versatile test used for both academic and general purposes. Divided into four sections – Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking – IELTS assesses a candidate's ability to use English in real-life situations, which makes it suitable for those seeking employment, immigration, or academic pursuits. 

Moreover, IELTS often employs a mix of British, Australian, American, and Canadian accents, making it a well-rounded evaluation of English proficiency. The results are reported in terms of band scores, from 1 being the lowest to 9 being the highest. And the test is valid for 2 years. 

The Test of English as a Foreign Language, is amongst a prominent American English proficiency test and is accepted globally by thousands of universities. Originally developed by the Center for Applied Linguistics in Washington, DC, it closely reflects how English is used in the daily academic environment. 

The TOEFL test again evaluates four basic skills - listening, reading, writing, and speaking. In order to attempt this test, there are 3 ways to take TOEFL - TOEFL iBT (Internet-based test), home edition, and paper edition. 

Each section of the TOEFL test has a band score range of 0 to 30. Thus, the maximum score you can get is 120. Your scores are valid for two years.

Next to IELTS and TOEFL, PTE Academic, accepted by over 3,500 universities & colleges worldwide, is also a well-renowned English proficiency test tailored to assess your English for academic purposes only. This test evaluates your speaking, writing, reading and listening English skills. 

You will attempt PTE Academic in a test centre with a friendly environment. Although you can also take this test for work and immigration purposes, it is quite famous for study purposes when applying to universities globally. 

You can complete your English test in 2 hours and get your results in 2 days. PTE (Pearson Test of English) also has the advantage of regular tests at its 475 test centres worldwide, so you can also pick this test at last-minute availability. 

TOELC (The Test of English for International Communication) checks your English communication skills. This test is basically for communicating with your colleagues at your workplace. The total test score for TOEIC is almost equivalent to the C1 level of CEFR, which is a 990 score. And it is valid for 2 years. 

This band score is derived by adding listening and reading scores, yet the speaking and writing parts follow a different scoring pattern. Businesses, multinational corporations, international organisations, and governmental agencies worldwide value it since it allows you to prove your ability to communicate cross-culturally with clients and coworkers.

The CELPIP, also known as the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program, is the world’s leading English proficiency test. It evaluates your English skills in diverse everyday scenarios, but this test is for immigration and professional work setting purposes. 

CELPIP offers two types of tests: the CELPIP General Test (3 hours) and the CELPIP General LS Test (1 hour). The test version lasting 3 hours covers all four language skills, whereas the shorter one lasting for only 1 hour only includes the speaking and listening part. 

In terms of test content, CELPIP places a strong emphasis on North American English. Plus, the CELPIP test is entirely computer-based, so the speaking part will be finished on a computer, with your answers to questions recorded. 

Developed by the Cambridge English department of Cambridge University, these tests are widely recognised by universities, employers, and government ministries as valid proof of English language proficiency. One unique feature of these tests is that, unlike other exams, they don’t have an expiry date, which makes them valid for life.

Let us look at these exams briefly.

• Key English Test (KET): The exam tests your ability to communicate in English in relatively simple situations at an elementary level.  

• Preliminary English Test (PET): The exam is at an intermediate level and tests practical language skills for everyday use. 

• Certificate in Advanced English (CAE): CAE is a high-level qualification exam with an in-depth base of assessing skills. It shows that you have the appropriate skills required for university or employment and are proficient in English. 

• First Certificate of English (FCE): This test helps you prove your language skills and competency to live or study independently in a foreign English-speaking country. 

• Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): It is the highest level of qualification provided by Cambridge English. It proves you can easily communicate elegance and fluency like a native English speaker.

IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE are three of the most popular English language proficiency exams, and most universities across the globe accept them. Let us examine some of the differences to determine which one can suit you better.

• Format: The TOEFL and PTE Academic are administered exclusively online on a computer, while the IELTS can be taken on paper or a computer, providing flexibility for test-takers.

• Accents: TOEFL generally uses American accents, while IELTS and PTE incorporate a variety of accents, exposing candidates to different English-speaking styles.

• Purpose: TOEFL and PTE are primarily for academic admission, while IELTS serves academic and general purposes, accommodating a broader range of goals.

• Scoring: The TOEFL exam is scored on 0-120 scale wherein each section is examined  on equal score benchmark. The IELTS is scored on a 9-band scale and PTE is scored between 10 - 90. 

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is a six-point scale for describing language proficiency that ranges from A1 (beginner) to C2. It enables teachers, learners, employers, and educational institutions to compare language qualifications easily.

While English proficiency tests may not be directly comparable, the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), an international standard for language proficiency, can serve as a benchmark for understanding. So, check out the comparison table below for all major English proficiency tests with CEFR levels.

Now that we have compared all English Language Proficiency tests let's consider some tips for choosing the proper test. 

• Identify Your Purpose: Determine whether you need the test for academic, professional, or immigration purposes, as identifying this will guide you in choosing a test that aligns with your goals.

• Check Institution Requirements: Verify the English proficiency needs of the institution or organisation you are applying to. Some institutions may prefer a particular test over the other.

• Consider Test Format: Choose a test format that aligns with your preferences. If you are comfortable with online testing, TOEFL might be suitable. IELTS and PTE could be preferable if you prefer a mix of accents and a paper-based option.

• Evaluate Accent Preferences: Consider your familiarity with different English accents. If exposure to various accents is important for you, IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL might be a better choice.

• Scoring System: Understand the scoring system of each test and determine which aligns better with your strengths. Some individuals may find one scoring system more aligned with their strengths than the other.

In conclusion, the English language proficiency exam is one of the most important factors contributing to your application to gain admission to your dream university.  In the realm of English proficiency tests, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE stand out as robust assessments with distinct features along with other tests like TOEIC, CELPIP, Cambridge English, etc.

Choosing out of the exams discussed in the blog requires careful consideration of your goals, preferences, and the specific requirements of your desired institutions. Ultimately, success in either test hinges on thorough English proficiency test preparation, consistent practice, and a strategic approach. Moreover, we suggest you research well and select the exam that your desired university accepts and in which you are confident that you can do well.

If you need clarification or more profound insight regarding English proficiency tests, we encourage you to speak with our expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC). If you cannot travel to our offices, we offer online counselling services via our website. Our dedicated counsellors will provide the best guidance regarding your application to study overseas. Don't hesitate to contact us at application02@meridean.org or call us at 1800-1230-00011.

Question: What is the best test for English proficiency?

Answer: The best English proficiency test is based on your requirements and preferences. Some popular options are IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE, which are all globally recognised for various purposes, such as academic admission, work visas, and immigration.

Question: What is the English proficiency test?

Answer: An English proficiency test checks your ability to understand, read, speak and write in English. Some common tests include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Cambridge English exams.

Question: Which English proficiency test is free?

Answer: Duolingo English Test offers a free practice test, though the official certification exam has a fee. Some institutions might also offer free proficiency assessments.

Question: What are the 5 levels of English language proficiency?

Answer: The CEFR has five levels: A1 (Beginner), A2 (Elementary), B1 (Intermediate), B2 (Upper Intermediate), and C1 (Advanced). There's also C2 (Proficient), for a total of six levels.

Question: How to check English proficiency?

Answer: You can identify your English proficiency by taking standardised tests like the IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge English exams. Many other online platforms provide assessments.

Question: What are the fees for English proficiency tests in India?

Answer: The fees vary: IELTS is around INR 17,000, TOEFL is around INR 17,105, and PTE is around INR 17,000. Prices may vary slightly depending on the testing centre and exchange rates.

Question: Is PTE harder than IELTS?

Answer: Difficulty is subjective and based on individual strengths. PTE is computer-based and may be easier for those who are familiar with technology, whereas IELTS includes a face-to-face speaking component that some may find more difficult.

Question: Does the UK accept PTE?

Answer: Yes, the UK accepts PTE Academic for visa applications, such as university admissions and work visas.

Question: How to improve English proficiency?

Answer: You can enhance your English proficiency by practising regularly, attending some English classes, reading more, watching and listening to English movies, writing daily, etc. 

Question: Can I take the English proficiency test online?

Answer: Yes, you can take many English proficiency tests online. Online testing options include the TOEFL iBT, IELTS Indicator, and Duolingo English Test. These tests are intended to assess your proficiency in a convenient and accessible manner.