Blogs
Language Proficiency Tests to Study Abroad in 2024
Language proficiency tests are an integral part of Studying abroad. Studying from the best country is a dream for many, offering a unique opportunity to explore new cultures, gain a global perspective, and acquire valuable life skills. However, for international students, language proficiency tests are often a significant hurdle to overcome. Language tests play an essential role in the admissions process, ensuring that students have the necessary language skills to thrive in an English-speaking academic environment. In this comprehensive blog, we will delve into the world of language proficiency tests to study abroad. From understanding their importance to preparing effectively and scoring high on the test day, we'll equip you with the knowledge you need to embark on your study abroad journey with confidence.
Table Of Contents
Table Of Contents
Know About a Language Proficiency Test
International students wishing to pursue higher education in countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom must submit English proficiency test results as part of their application to universities/academic institutions. The Language proficiency test will determine whether you have sufficient English language skills to speak, understand, and produce scholarly writing during your academic studies. Most countries demand international students to submit the results of one of the internationally recognized English proficiency exams, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. You may be excluded from the standardized English proficiency test depending on the course, course duration, university, institution, and nation you choose. Regardless, you must appear for one of the permitted language proficiency tests to study abroad.
Why take a language proficiency test to study abroad?
Language proficiency tests are the cornerstone of successful international education. It's not just about conversing with locals or ordering food; it's about thriving academically and culturally in a foreign land. Here's why language proficiency also matters:
1. Academic Excellence
Understanding and articulating complex ideas in English or another language is vital for academic success. The English proficiency exam ensures you can engage in discussions, write research papers, and excel in exams.
2. Effective Communication
Beyond academics, effective communication is crucial in daily life. Being able to express yourself clearly and understand others fosters better relationships, personal growth, and cultural integration.
3. Cultural Immersion
Language is the key to unlocking a culture's heart. Proficiency allows you to connect with locals, appreciate traditions, and immerse yourself fully in the host country's way of life.
Preferred Language Proficiency Test to Study Abroad
Many universities across the world have their own acceptance for English language proficiency tests. Below are the few popular English language proficiency tests in the world. Choose your exam as per your goals.
1. IELTS Exam
The IELTS exam is one of over 100 nations' authorized and standardized English language proficiency exams for processing overseas students' higher education applications. To test students' language proficiency, the IELTS exam structure and questions are designed by some of the world's best English language experts. When international individuals need to study abroad or apply for permanent residency, they choose to take the IELTS English language proficiency test.
Academic IELTS tests and General IELTS exams are the two categories of IELTS exams.
Academic IELTS Exam: This format of proficiency test is Specifically designed for overseas students applying to study at a specific university or college across the world.
General IELTS Exam: Designed specifically for international citizens seeking to immigrate to an English-speaking country such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada, or the United Kingdom.
You can appear for the IELTS exam multiple times in a year with an exam fee of Rs 14,000. And the validity of the IELTS exam score is for two years.
2. TOEFL Exam
The TOEFL Exam, conducted by ETS ( Educational Testing Service), is one of the top English proficiency tests that are recognized by some of the best countries to study overseas. TOEFL iBT scores are accepted by more than 11,000 universities and other institutions in nearly 150 nations, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United States, and the United Kingdom. TOEFL is a four-hour computerized test that evaluates a candidate's four primary English Language skills: reading, writing, listening, and writing.
The test is also available in paper format. The exam is graded on a scale of 0 to 120, and the exam price in India is roughly Rs. 13,000 for PBT and may range from 11,000 to 17,000 for iBT. The exam is available all year round, with 50 exam schedules.
3. PTE Exam
The PTE Exam (Pearson Test of English) is a common English language test used to evaluate the language skills of non-native English language speakers. The PTE scoring can help to speed up the application processes for work, study, and immigration. It is recognized by governments and accepted by universities all across the world. PTE scores are used to determine if a student is qualified for college entrance and immigration to an English-speaking country.
The PTE is a three-hour exam that consists of three sections: speaking and writing, reading, and listening. The speaking portion, like the TOEFL, involves recording your spoken response for later review. AI is evaluating the test. Based on an assessment, the PTE is scored on a scale of 10-90.
There are two formats for PTE Exam
PTE Academic Test: This format is used by overseas students who are seeking admission to study abroad in any English speaking country.
PTE General: This format of PTE exam is used for general immigration process by those peoples who are willing to work or settle in the english speaking country
The official price for appearing in the PTE test is Rs, 14,700/- but make sure to check it on the official website because it changes frequently.
4. CAEL Exam
CAEL Test is the most widely used English language proficiency test in Canada. It is accepted by nearly 180 Canadian post-secondary institutions. Employers, schools, colleges, and universities use this test to verify English language proficiency. CAEL is one of the most effective techniques for identifying students who have the necessary English abilities for academic success. It represents language use in a Canadian academic context authentically.
The 3.5-hour exam includes Speaking, Integrated Reading and Listening, and academic Units A and B. In India, there are just two CAEL test centers: Chandigarh and Ahmedabad. The exam costs around Rs, 11000/-.
5. CAE Exam
The CAE exam (Cambridge Advanced English), now known as C1 Advanced, is one of the Cambridge proficiency Exams. The CAE exam's main objective is to act as a transitional examination for the English language between the B2 First and C2 Proficiency test levels. The CAE test (C1 Advanced) is accepted by around 9,000 businesses, government bodies, and educational institutions across the world. CAE results are acceptable for entrance to major UK universities.
CAE scores are also accepted for entrance to higher education institutions in Canada, the United States, and Spain. The exam is segmented into four parts: writing, reading, speaking, and listening. Currently, the CAE exam fee in India is roughly Rs. 6000.
6. CPE Exam
The Cambridge English Proficiency exam, often known as the Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE), is a test that evaluates a candidate's proficiency in the English language. The University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations conducts the highest level of general English test. The standard level of English in the test compares to that of a well-educated native English speaker. While anyone can take the test, it is extremely useful for students who want to pursue higher education at educational institutions in native English-speaking countries.
Many universities across the world acknowledge CPE certification. CPE tests are held at approximately 2,700 centers worldwide on scheduled dates. The cost of the CPE Exam fees in India is determined by the format of the exam and the specific center where the exam is administered. In India, the exam price is Rs. 6,700/-.
7. Duolingo Exam
The Duolingo English Test is an English proficiency exam that seeks to check a candidate's English comprehension and linguistic fluency before traveling to an English-speaking region. Over 1000 universities in the United States, Australia, Canada, China, and Ireland currently recognise the Duolingo test. It's a computerized, at-home test. It also costs roughly 49 USD. The test is available on demand at duolingo.com and lasts 60 minutes.
The test score typically runs between 10 and 160, with 120 being the average number recognised by most universities and institutions around the world. The Examination charges for the Duolingo English language test is Rs, 4028/- and the candidate must appear for the examination within the 90 days of registration.
8. ECCE Exam
Examination for the Certificate of Competency in English, ECCE Exam is awarded by the University of Michigan. It demonstrates your command of the English language and might be utilized to impress potential employers.
The ECCE english proficiency exam is at the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level B2. Many institutions in Canada, New Zealand, Australia, France, the United States, and the United Kingdom recognise it. The exam fee varies depending on the test center, however it is typically around Rs.12,465/-.
Countries Accepting Language Proficiency Tests for Different Courses
Check out the table to know the most preferred English language test for popular study abroad destinations in various fields of studies.
|
Courses |
Preferred English Proficiency Test for Each Country |
|
Undergraduate |
TOEFL- United States and Canada IELTS and PTE- UK, Australia and New Zealand CAE or CPE - UK, New Zealand, Germany, Australia and USA |
|
Law |
TOEFL- United States and Canada IELTS and PTE - New Zealand, UK, and Australia |
|
Medicine |
TOEFL- US, UK and Canada IELTS and PTE - Australia and New Zealand CAE or CPE - UK, New Zealand, Germany, Australia and USA |
|
MS |
TOEFL- Canada and US IELTS and PTE - New Zealand, Australia, and UK |
|
MBA |
IELTS and PTE- Australia TOEFL, CAE and PTE- New Zealand, UK, US, and Canada, germany. |
|
Diploma / Certificates |
TOEFL- US and Canada IELTS, CAE and PTE - UK, Australia, and New Zealand, Germany |
Popular Universities accepting language proficiency test to study abroad
As per the academic requirement various universities in different nations accept different formats of English proficiency exam by the overseas students. Below are the detailed list of some popular universities country wise accepting the language proficiency test.
|
Country |
University Name |
Language Proficiency Test |
|
Imperial college of London |
IELTS, PTE |
|
|
University of Cambridge |
IELTS, TOEFL, CAE, CPE |
|
|
University of Oxford |
IELTS, TOEFL, CAE, CPE |
|
|
University of Edinburgh |
IELTS, TOEFL, CAE, CPE |
|
|
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CAE, CPE |
||
|
IELTS, TOEFL |
||
|
King’s college London |
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CAE, CPE |
|
|
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CAE, CPE |
||
|
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CAE, CPE |
||
|
IELTS, PTE, CAE, CPE |
||
|
Harvard University |
IELTS and TOEFL |
|
|
Stanford University |
TOEFL iBT |
|
|
IELTS, TOEFL, CAE, CPE |
||
|
IELTS, TOEFL and Duolingo |
||
|
IELTS, TOEFL, CAE, CPE, Duolingo |
||
|
California Institute of Technology |
IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
|
|
IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
||
|
Duke University |
IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
|
|
IELTS, TOEFL, CAE, CPE |
||
|
IELTS, TOEFL, CAE, CPE, Duolingo |
||
|
IELTS, TOEFL, CAE, CPE, Duolingo |
||
|
IELTS and TOEFL |
||
|
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CAE |
||
|
IELTS, TOEFL, CAE, CPE, Duolingo |
||
|
Western University |
IELTS and TOEFL |
|
|
IELTS, TOEFL, CAE, Duolingo |
||
|
Queen’s University |
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo |
|
|
IELTS, TOEFl, PTE |
||
|
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CAE |
||
|
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE |
||
|
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CPE |
||
|
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE |
||
|
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE |
||
|
IELTS and TOEFL |
||
|
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE |
||
|
IELTS, TOEFL, CAE, CPE |
||
|
ManuKau Institute of Technology |
IELTS, TOEFL |
|
|
Laidlaw College |
IELTS, TOEFL, CAE, CPE |
Conclusion
Before Applying for any English proficiency test, Select which exams suit you the best. Please keep in mind that the exams you take should be acceptable to the courses and countries you select. It is best to explore whatever courses you wish to study overseas from India before deciding which examinations to take. Generally, you should take a test at least 6 months before applying to study abroad. The reason for this process is that if you do not pass the exam on the first try, you can re-apply and fine-tune your plan.
Because what counts more than taking an exam is how you prepare for it. Having a strategy and working towards it is always beneficial. We hope with this blog you will come to know about the available English language proficiency test accepted by various countries and universities across the world. You can go through our examination section of our website for detailed information for these examinations.
Who are we ?
Career Clinic is a well-known study abroad consultancy that helps students gain quick admission to major overseas universities in their field of interest. We ensure that Indian students have a stress-free study abroad experience by employing a team of qualified counsellors. Apply with us to study abroad in next upcoming intake of 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Both the language proficiency test to study abroad has its own format and acceptance. Neither of them can be considered easy or difficult. Due to the different test patterns and formats, most people find it difficult and easier for each other. Although, looking closely at the exam structure IELTS offers a fixed number of questions while PTE offers an adaptive approach.
If you are planning to study abroad in any university without the IELTS exam, then you can surely apply for other language proficiency tests like PTE, Duolingo, TOEFL, CAE, and CPE. These tests are also accepted by many countries and universities across the world. The exam format will be different so you have to plan and study according to that.
Almost all the tests examine the language proficiency of candidates who want to study abroad in an English speaking nation. The format of the test generally consists of writing, reading, listening, and speaking. Only the type of questions are different. For instance, the PTE test has a more visual and audio material approach, while IELTS has a more academic approach.
Many of you have heard that people use PTE language proficiency test scores in Canada visa applications. Then for your correction, it must have been used for student visa applications. The scores of the PTE exam are acceptable by Canadian universities and institutes for the student visa application but nobody can use it for the Canada PR visa application. So, you can only use your PTE score in Canada only if you are planning to study at a Canadian university.
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an English language fluency test that is generally accepted by companies across the world. However, the IELTS requirement for work may differ based on the employer, industry, and position being applied for. Therefore, it is suggested to go through the employer and company's guidelines before applying for any English proficiency test.
Duolingo is quite simple because it aims to help users develop basic language abilities rather than measure their English language ability. Eventually, the complexity of both the Duolingo and IELTS exams will be determined by the learner's language background, learning style, and skill level. Before applying for any English proficiency test, please review the exam format and procedure.
The passing score in the CAE Exam is roughly similar to a 7.0 in IELTS. IELTS is not easier; it is simply different. Admission to a British university or college with an IELTS or CAE certificate will necessitate the same high level of English proficiency. Furthermore, CAE is less academic than IELTS, with larger topics and more varied writing challenges in the exam.
Almost all universities in the United Kingdom accept C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency English fluency tests. You can use these English language proficiency exams as part of your university application, if you are planning to study a course at a degree level or above, at a higher education institution. But still, check the university guidelines before applying for any English proficiency exam.
To qualify for the exam, the candidate must obtain a low pass or a borderline pass as specified by the examination conducting body. Those who do not meet this standard will not be awarded a certificate in English proficiency. For each section of the exam, the ECCE score is reported as five bands ranging from highest to lowest.
In terms of examination fees, the fee structure of all the English language fluency tests is different as per their structure. Also, the cancellation fee for each exam is different. Hence, while selecting the right test be sure to include the overall cost of the examination. But they are all the best English proficiency exams that offer you an opportunity to study abroad at your favorite university.
