English Language Proficiency Tests in UK- TOEFL and IELTS
Students in UK need to demonstrate their English language proficiency skills. The students must pass one of the following tests in order to get into the UK higher education institution:
TOEFL- Test of English as a Foreign Language
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), prepared and managed by ETS, is an internationally recognized and globally standardized English language test that evaluates English Language Proficiency of the applicant’s who wants to pursue their education in UK.
Format
TOEFL Internet based (iBT): The TOEFL iBT is a four-hour test and assesses the skills and abilities of the applicants in understanding and usage of English at the level necessary for university studies. It measures the skills and knowledge in four areas: reading, listening, speaking and writing.
Reading
The reading section consists of 3 or 4 passages and assesses the ability to read and understand the passages in English.
- No. of questions: 36-56
- Time limit: 60-80 minutes.
Listening
This part requires you to listen to classroom discussions, lectures and accordingly answer questions based on them.
- No. of questions: 34-51
- Time Limit: 60-90 minutes.
Speaking
This section requires the applicants to express the opinions, communicate their ideas and thoughts on a particular topic clearly and effectively.
- No. of questions: 6 tasks
- Time limit: 20 minutes
Writing
This section requires the applicant to write an essay based on reading and listening sections task. It assesses your ability and potential to communicate the relevant information clearly, coherently and effectively.
- No. of questions: 2 tasks
- Time Limit: 50 minutes
Registration
- Step 1: Register at TOEFL
- Step 2: Enter all the necessary details on the registration form.
- Step 3: Pay the fees via credit/debit card.
Fees
The TOEFL fee varies from year to year. Check the official website for payment details and there is an additional fee being charged for rescheduling and cancellation of TOEFL exam.
Scoring and Results
The TOEFL iBT is scored on a scale of 0 to 120 points. You receive a score from 0 to 30 in each of the four TOEFL test parts, i.e. Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. Your total TOEFL score is the sum of the scores from the four sections. In addition to the scores, the applicant will also receive an official score record that includes your performance feedback at all the levels/tasks. The TOEFL iBT test score is valid for two years but the test can be taken as many times as you desire.
Special Arrangements
For Special test arrangements, the candidate must register online by mail and fill out a registration form. These special sittings as a result of medical conditions or disabilities are made available only if the candidate provides the evidence to support the request.
IELTS- International English Language Testing System
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is an internationally recognized standardized English language test designed to evaluate the English language skills of the applicants who want to study in UK.
The IELTS has two modules catering to two different groups: The ‘Academic Training-Module’ is primarily designed for study at undergraduate or postgraduate degree level, whereas the ‘General Training-Module’ predominantly addresses employed people who plan a stay-abroad or students who want to complete their secondary education.
Format
The IELTS comprises of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The IELTS test is for 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Listening
This section wants the applicants to listen to four audio clips and answer questions asked based on the clips.
Reading
This section consists of three passages. The applicants are required to identify attitudes and perceptions, main subject matter and other relevant information.
Writing
This section has 2 tasks. First task requires the applicant to create a descriptive report of a table or diagram of 150 words, while the other task involves writing an essay in response to a statement given, about 250 words.
Speaking
This section consists of a face-to-face interview between the applicant and the examiner. It basically assesses the applicants spoken communication skills.
- Time limit: 10-15 minutes
Scoring and Results
The IELTS scores are based on each of the four sections, i.e. Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, on a scale of 1 – 9. Also, an overall band score based on the average of all 4 parts is calculated. The score is delivered via post in a Test Report Form. The test Report Form is valid for two years from the date you took the test.
The IELTS 9-band scale
Band 9 refers to Expert user
Band 8 refers to Very good user
Band 7 refers to Good user
Band 6 refers to Competent user
Band 5 refers to Modest user
Band 4 refers to Limited user
Band 3 refers to Extremely limited user
Band 2 refers to Intermittent user
Band 1 refers to Non-user
Registration
Register online at
IELTS. Fill in the details in IELTS Application form and attach an identification proof. Send or upload a photocopy of your ID and a signed print-out of your application summary to the relevant centre. Then pay the fees. You will receive an invoice via email after you have registered online. Acceptable forms of payment are by Credit Card, i.e. Visa or MasterCard, or by bank transfer. After the payment of fees, a summary email will be received which needs to be signed. Send the proof of payment and other required documentation by post no later than 3 days after submitting the online application form.
Fees
The IELTS fee varies from year to year. Check the official website for payment and other necessary details.
Special arrangements
For Special test arrangements/ accommodation, the candidate must seek permission. These special sittings as a result of medical conditions or disabilities are made available only if the candidate provides the evidence to support the request.
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