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Which test is best?

Need to take an English exam to demonstrate your ability, but not sure which one to go for? Different goals call for different exams, so take a look at the advice below before you sign up!

I want to study in a North American university.

Eager to study in the US or Canada? If so, your prospective school is probably most familiar with the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).

There are two versions of this comprehensive test: paper-based (PBT) and computer-based (CBT). There are three sections – Listening Comprehension, Structure and Written Expression, and Reading Comprehension – with an additional Writing section for the computer-based version.

Students are given a score reflecting their performance, and many universities require a minimum score for acceptance, usually around 500-550 for the PBT.

I want to work or study in England, Australia, or New Zealand.

If you’re heading to the UK, the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) test should be the first exam you consider. It includes Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing tests, with a choice between Academic and General Training in the Reading and Writing sections.

If your main goal is to study at a university, then the Academic focus is better. If you are planning to live or work abroad, then the General Training test is probably a better bet.

There is no pass or fail grade for IELTS: participants are provided with an overall score from 1 (non-user) to 9 (expert user), as well as a score for each section.

I want to land a job in an international company.

With 200 multiple-choice questions covering everyday English topics, TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication) is THE test for the workplace. With more than 3 million test-takers every year, it is widely recognized by corporations worldwide for measuring employees’ English level.

This 2-hour test is broken up into two sections: Reading and Listening. Because different jobs require a different level of English proficiency, there is no pass or fail for TOEIC. Instead, you will receive a total score ranging from 10 to 990.

If you are looking for a job where you can utilize your English skills, this may be the test to take to prove your ability.

I want to pursue a career in business.

BEC (Cambridge Business English Certificate) is a series of 3 proficiency tests, which revolves heavily around business topics. The tests – BEC Preliminary, BEC Vantage, and BEC Higher – cover skills necessary for business situations, like making presentations, negotiating, or writing business letters and reports.

Unlike TOEFL and TOEIC, the BEC test sets a minimum score required to pass and to receive the certification.

BEC is practical in nature, requiring candidates to engage in work-related discussions and write business letters. Like other Cambridge English certificates, a minimum score is required to pass the exam and receive the certification.