Guide to English Proficiency Tests for College Applications

English proficiency tests could be an application requirement if you are an international student, non-native English speaker or attending a school which is not in English and/or in an English-speaking country. With several options available, it's important to understand the different tests and admissions requirements. In this guide, we'll give you a quick breakdown of what you need to know about English proficiency tests for college applications.

1. Understanding the Importance of English Proficiency Tests: English proficiency tests are a way for colleges and universities to assess a student’s ability to succeed in an English-speaking academic environment. These tests evaluate reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Even if you have taken an SAT, hold a passport to an English speaking country, or have attended a school with some coursework in English, colleges need a way to more thoroughly evaluate your English proficiency before offering you an acceptance and may require an English test.

2. Researching English Proficiency Requirements:  As you are planning your college applications, it is important to research the policies at each of your colleges and allow time to meet testing requirements before your application deadlines. The requirements vary significantly by college and the student’s background. For example, one college may require test scores from an American student at a bilingual school abroad, while another may not. One college may accept any of the six English proficiency tests listed below, while another may only accept a few of them. Some colleges accept the TOEFL iBT home version while others only accept the TOEFL taken at a test center. Do your research to avoid missing an important part of your application and having to take a last- minute test. Also, while many colleges do not have minimum test scores required, they often publish preferred scores. Take a look at those as you prepare for your tests and evaluate your scores.

3. English Proficiency Tests for College Applications:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): This is the most common English test taken for US college admissions with more than 90% of US colleges accepting it and many international universities too. The TOEFL assesses English proficiency through reading, listening, speaking, and writing sections. There is an in-person option at official test centers and a home version. It is only available as a computer based test. The speaking section is done via recording various responses with a microphone. The test now takes less than 2 hours and results are usually available within 2 weeks. Tests are scored through a combination of a computer and examiner.

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): IELTS is a UK based test, but accepted by more than 3,000 colleges in the US. It is the second most common English proficiency test submitted to US colleges. IELTS evaluates language proficiency through listening, reading, writing, and speaking components. The Academic version is primarily available at official test centers, but is available in some regions as a home version as well. It is available on paper and computer. The Speaking section is completed separately with a trained IELTS examiner. The total test time is around 2 hours 45 min and results are usually available in 2 weeks. Tests are scored through a combination of a computer and examiner.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): PTE Academic is a computer-based English proficiency test accepted by more than 1200 US colleges. It assesses speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills and provides rapid results (usually within 48 hours). The speaking section is done via recording various responses with a microphone. It can only be taken at official test centers and total test time is under 2 hours. Tests are scored entirely via computer.

• Duolingo English Test: Emerging as a popular alternative due to the flexibility of taking the test online at any time, the Duolingo English Test evaluates language proficiency through an adaptive computer-based format. It is now accepted by more than 1700 US colleges. It assesses reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills and is accepted by an increasing number of colleges. The testing session is recorded and verified by a Duolingo proctor then scored by a computer and the results are available within 48 hours. Total test time is one hour.

•  iTEP (International Test of English Proficiency): Also chosen because of its flexibility with on-demand testing and quick score turnaround, iTEP offers a comprehensive assessment of reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. It is currently accepted by more than 300 colleges in the US. It is available in-person or at home. The speaking and writing sections are graded by humans. The test takes 90 minutes and scores are available within 24 hours.

• Cambridge:  Accepted by more than 100 US colleges, the Cambridge exams are the longest and most thorough. Cambridge English exams are available at testing locations around the world and can be taken on paper or computer. Students must choose which level of test they will take, but typically only the C1 or C2 are accepted for university admission. The Speaking section is taken face to face with an examiner. The tests take approximately 4 hours and results are available in 2-3 weeks.

4. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Test:

• College Requirements: Research the English proficiency requirements of the colleges and universities you're applying to and choose a test that meets their criteria.

• Test Format: Consider your preferences and strengths when selecting between test center and home-based tests. Also consider the format of the test. Do you prefer recording your own answers or speaking with a human? Do you prefer a paper-based test or computer? Although paper is less common, it is still available for some tests.

• Accessibility and Convenience: Choose a test that is widely available in your region and offers convenient test dates and locations. Some tests are not available in certain regions at all. Also consider that some tests require reserving your spot weeks or even months in advance.

• Timing:  Consider how long the test results take and how much time it takes to get those results sent to colleges. Do you plan on taking the test more than once? It is not possible to retake some of the tests within a short timeframe. Take a look at your college application timeline and consider how much time you need to have your scores available by application deadlines. Also remember that test scores are only valid for a certain amount of time depending on which test you take and which college you are applying to.

5. Preparation for English Proficiency Tests:

• Familiarize yourself with the test format, structure, and question types before test day.

• Make use of free test prep materials provided by most of the testing companies themselves.

• Consider getting additional tutoring or test prep help if needed.

Do your research and plan ahead! Selecting the right English proficiency test and adequately preparing for it are important steps in your college application journey. Contact us for guidance on mapping out your college plan and deciding which test is right for you.