English is an international language and there are several choices for English proficiency exams to accurately assess your English level. We look at the options available and give recommendations for your English language assessment.
[Last updated on 25/07/2018]
Language learners study English at home, online, and in English language schools worldwide. This can give an idea of your English level of proficiency, but may not provide an official certification of your level of English.
Benefits of taking official English exams
It can be more beneficial to take an internationally-recognised English examination to accurately assess your English level of proficiency. You can also compare results to the six CEFR English levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2. This can be advantageous for work opportunities and study. Universities in native English speaking countries usually require an official certification of your level of English. Preparing for an English exam can also give greater motivation to achieve the best results. It takes a lot of time and energy to learn a foreign language, so an international certification of your English level is a great way to record your achievement.
What is the best English proficiency exam for me?
Firstly, we recommend that you take our English test to get an estimation of your English level. Then, you can decide which English proficiency exam to consider, because some exams are designed for specific levels.
Then you need to research which English exam is the most appropriate for your needs. It is possible that a place of work or an educational institution will only recognise the results of specific English proficiency exams. Some may require you to take an exam that focuses on business English or academic English.
We recommend that you check online to find your nearest examination centre. Depending on your location, you may have to choose the exam that is available in your area. Also, some exams take place more frequently, so you can decide which exam is best for your schedule.
Here is a link to the most popular English exams that we recommend for our clients. We provide more information about each exam and recommended study materials. These include:
- International English language test system (IELTS);
- Cambridge English exams (with five choices):
- Key (KET), Preliminary (PET), First (FCE), Advanced (CAE), Proficiency (CPE);
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL);
- Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC)
Our English teachers are experienced in exam preparation courses and can advise you on which English proficiency exam is best for you. They can also help you to prepare for the day with exam strategies and feedback on your English speaking and writing skills.
Good luck!