Study Abroad

Photo from Freepik

Different Types of English Proficiency Tests 

By Harminder Singh 

English proficiency tests assess language skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Various types of tests cater to different purposes, such as studying abroad, working in English-speaking countries, or assessing workplace language skills. 

Introduction 

Video from Canva

Developed by ETS (Educational Testing Service), TOEFL is widely accepted by universities and institutions in English-speaking countries as proof of English proficiency for non-native English speakers seeking to study or work abroad. 

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) 

Photo from Freepik

1

Administered jointly by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English, IELTS is another widely accepted test for academic and immigration purposes. Available in two formats: Academic and General Training. 

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) 

Photo from Freepik

2

TOEIC evaluates English proficiency in the context of international business and workplace settings. It is often used by companies to assess the English language skills of their employees or potential candidates. 

Photo from Freepik

TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication) 

3

The University of Cambridge offers a series of English proficiency exams at different levels, such as Cambridge English: Preliminary (PET), Cambridge English: First (FCE), Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE), and Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE). 

Photo from Canva

Cambridge English Exams 

4

Conducted by Pearson, PTE Academic assesses English language proficiency for study abroad and immigration purposes. It evaluates the four language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. 

PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic) 

Photo from Freepik

5

BULATS, also offered by Cambridge Assessment English, is designed to assess the language skills required for business and workplace contexts. 

Photo from Freepik

BULATS (Business Language Testing Service) 

6

OET is tailored for healthcare professionals seeking to work or study in an English-speaking healthcare environment. It assesses language skills specific to medical settings. 

OET (Occupational English Test) 

Photo from Freepik

7

Popular in Japan, STEP Eiken is an English proficiency test used for academic and employment purposes. 

STEP Eiken 

Photo from Freepik

8

This is an online, adaptive test that can be taken from anywhere. It is increasingly accepted by some universities and institutions as an alternative to traditional English proficiency tests. 

Duolingo English Test 

Photo from duoplanet

9

English proficiency tests play a crucial role in various aspects of life, including education, career, and immigration. Understanding the different types of tests helps individuals choose the most appropriate one for their needs. 

Recap

Photo from Freepik