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Does the Validity of Language Tests Need to be Extended?
"Who forgets a language in two years?" A number of study abroad students and experts are questioning the validity of IELTS, TOEFL or PTE exams. Every year a huge number of Indian students are choosing to study abroad, therefore it has become essential to decide whether the validity of language exams needs to be increased. Many Indian students and experts agree with the point that the validity of English proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, DuoLingo and more should increase for a few more years.
Continuous Increase in the Number of Language Test Takers
Over the years the number of English test takers is increasing rapidly. In India, the number of TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) has increased by 59 % in the last few years. India's language test takers account for 7.5 % of the total test takers around the world. Similarly, a 90% surge as compared to the previous year has seen for the PTE (Pearson Test of English) exam. This reason has enhanced the requirement of an increased validity period of a few years for these exams.
Majority of students and experts believe that the validity period of these tests should be extended for a few years.
According to the rules IELTS, TOEFL or PTE scores are valid for only 2 years. After completing the duration of 2 years the scores automatically taken off the students accounts.
Many international students such as Karan Ramesh Metha, who is completing his education in BSc (Chemistry) from the University of Calgary, shared that “it is not important to repeat these tests if the students have also cleared the test”.
Some other students believe that it is a futile exercise as a student will not forget a language within two years. Candidates who have achieved high scores in IELTS/ TOEFL/PTE, simply means that they have good communication skills in English. Hence it is not required to test their language skills every few years. Said by Simran and Karan.
Experts also agree with these statements and feel that the validity of language tests should be increased for a few years. These tests determine the ability of students to communicate in English in their day-to-day and professional life. Experts shared that we don’t think students who have excellent English speaking skills will forget the language within 2 years. Hence the validity period needs to be extended by at least a few years, said by study abroad experts.
So, what’s your point of view on the validity of language proficiency tests? Share your views with us and visit our website to enhance your English proficiency test preparation. Get in touch with us to get the latest study abroad updates.
