Studying abroad offers a chance to earn a professional degree from a global university, build industry connections, and land a well-paying job. However, it requires qualifying for several exams to secure a seat in a world-class university.
Many international universities mandate students to undertake language proficiency tests. These tests assess an individual’s ability to communicate in a foreign language. Top consultancies in India help applicants prepare for language proficiency tests.
Understanding Language Proficiency Tests
Language proficiency tests evaluate a person’s ability to comprehend, speak, read, and write in a particular language. The proficiency levels range from basic to advanced. Top universities have language proficiency tests as prerequisites for admission. Most examinations check for proficiency in English, considering it the most widely spoken language in the world. Moreover, English proficiency is a benchmark for most universities because most study materials, including textbooks, research papers, and online subject matter, are in this language. Thus, universities gauge student’s ability to read, write, and speak English fluently for seamless collaboration and career opportunities.
Types of Language Proficiency Tests
IELTS
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a world-recognised English proficiency test. Qualifying this test is vital for academic purposes. The test scores are accepted by 12,000 universities in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and many other countries. It is available in computer and paper-based formats at 4000 test locations.
Students prepare for common topics and answers for IELTS listening, speaking, reading, and writing tests. The total test duration is 2 hours and 45 minutes. Top consulting firms help students prepare for it by providing study materials, expert guidance, and practice mock tests. The test score is valid for 2 years.
TOEFL
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is an English proficiency test accepted by many universities in North America, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. 4 speaking and 2 writing tests make a total of 80 questions. It is for non-native speakers for academic and immigration purposes. The test duration is 3 hours; it is available in computer and paper-based format. The TOEFL test score is valid for 2 years.
PTE Exam
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) exam evaluates an individual’s English writing, speaking, and reading abilities. It is known as the longest-standing assessment of English language proficiency. There are two assessments in this exam – the PTE Academic and the PTE General.
PTE Academic is a computer-based English examination that the person can undertake any time of the year. The PTE Academic framework is the base of this test. Many Indian students undertake this online test to qualify for admission to recognised universities in foreign countries. It is accepted by 3500 universities in Australia, Canada, and the UK. PTE General is a paper-based exam organised at a specific time of the year. There are 110 questions in the PTE exam. The test result is valid for 2 years.
Several education consulting firms in India provide students with a detailed overview of these exams. It helps aspirants devise the right preparation strategy to qualify for these exams with flying colours. Top consulting firms also keep students informed about the latest updates about language proficiency exams.
