Settling abroad is a big decision for students, filled with exciting choices. This decision has so many things that need to be considered, like which college or university to choose, in which country to go, and most importantly, which English language exam to take. No worries if you are also one of those; this segment will guide you in deciding which English proficiency exam to choose.
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you decide which exam best fits your requirements.
Contents
Select The Country:
Research the universities or programs you’re interested in. Most universities clearly state which English exams they accept and the minimum required score. Narrow down your top choices and create a list of their preferred tests. To learn more, visit their official website; you can check the required scores.
Select The Exam:
These three English language exams dominate globally for students:
PTE:
The PTE (Pearson Test of English) is your gateway to global opportunities. In a single session, this innovative computer-based exam assesses your listening, reading, speaking, and writing abilities. You get fast and reliable results.
- Scoring: The PTE uses a transparent scoring system from 10 to 90, with higher scores reflecting more vital English skills. This straightforward approach makes it easy to understand your results and track your progress.
- Test Format: The PTE efficiently assesses your abilities through three focused sections: Speaking & Writing (combined), Reading, and Listening. Completely computer-based.
IELTS:
The IELTS exam caters to diverse needs with two modules: Academic for higher education and General Training for migration or work purposes. Adding to its flexibility, the test can be computer-based or paper-based, depending on the test center.
- Scoring: IELTS uses a transparent scoring system, where each section (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) is graded on a scale of 1 to 9. These individual scores are then averaged to give you an overall band score.
- Test Format: Both computer-based and paper-based exams.
Duolingo:
Duolingo is an affordable English proficiency test perfect for students with limited financial resources. Also, the convenience of the at-home format makes it a stress-free option. Many universities, especially those with flexible admissions processes, accept
- Scoring: The test utilizes a comprehensive scoring system ranging from 10 to 160.
- Test Format: English language skills are evaluated based on reading, listening, writing & speaking.
Important Aspect That Needs To Be Checked:
Test Format:
You must check the format you are choosing. If you are comfortable with technical advancement, go with a computer-based exam, as the results will be faster than a paper-based exam.
Speaking Compatibility:
Check your English language speaking compatibility if you are comfortable speaking into a microphone or prefer a face-to-face conversation (paper-based IELTS exam). If you are comfortable with the microphone option, PTE, Duolingo, and CD-IELTS will be good options. But if you want a human interface, then you must opt for IELTS (paper-based).
Time Check:
This factor might sound very casual, but it is crucial to consider the time duration according to your comfort. PTE, Duolingo & IELTS have different time durations from which you have to choose, so those who do not want to sit in the exam for longer must opt for Duolingo & PTE. IELTS exams have comparatively longer duration, and you have to give this section separately for the speaking section.
Availability:
Availability is an important aspect that should not be overlooked, as it will directly impact your target score. Check the test center availability and test dates near you for each exam. Select the date of the exam in such a way that you get an ample amount of time for the preparation. Look into the registration deadlines for each exam so you can strategically plan your test date.
Decide Target Score:
Besides preparation techniques, you must keep a check on realistic target scores. Know the minimum target score for your preferred university and the exam related to that score. Once you know that, plan the preparation accordingly. Different exams have different minimum score requirements, so choose the target that is easy to achieve.
After knowing all these factors, you must prepare day and night to crack the exam for your dream university. You can use Gurully’s online practice software to scale up your practice. You will get full-length mock tests for PTE, IELTS, and Duolingo exams.
Concerning full-length mock tests, Gurully also provides a real-time exam simulation that will help you know what the actual test day environment will be like. The AI-scoring system of the mock tests will save you time by giving instant results. So, to achieve your desired target score, start practicing with Gurully.
Conclusion:
Choosing the correct English language exam can feel overwhelming, but the right information will help you make a beneficial decision. The above guide has explained the most commonly chosen Language Proficiency exams (PTE, IELTS, and DUOLINGO). First, you have to research your target programs to understand their English language requirements.
Once you are equipped with knowledge of exams, their format, and general information, you can decide on the target score. To practice for the exam, you can ace the Gurully online platform.
