English Level Certificate

Understanding the significance and utility of an English level certificate can greatly enhance one’s prospects in a competitive landscape.

What is an English level certificate?

An English level certificate is an official document that verifies an individual’s proficiency in the English language.

An English level certificate is a crucial tool for individuals looking to study, work, or live in environments where English is the primary language as well as for standing out in competition while searching for employment.

Why do I need an English level certificate?

You may need an English level certificate for several reasons:

CV or Linkedin profile improvement

An English level test certification can significantly enhance your CV or LinkedIn profile, showcasing your proficiency in English to potential employers and educational institutions.

Employment

Employers, particularly in multinational companies or industries where English is the primary language of communication, often require job applicants to demonstrate their language skills. An English level certificate provides a standardized assessment of an applicant’s English proficiency.

Academic admission

Many universities and colleges in English-speaking countries require prospective students, especially international applicants, to provide evidence of their English proficiency as part of the admissions process. An English level certificate serves this purpose.

Immigration and visa applications

Several countries use English level certificates as part of their visa and immigration requirements, particularly for those applying for work or study visas. This helps ensure that applicants have the necessary language skills to integrate effectively.

What types of English level certificates are available?

There are various types of English level certificates available, catering to different needs such as general proficiency, academic requirements, and professional contexts. Here’s an overview of the popular English level tests & certificates:

Test comparison table

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TOEFL
Cambridge Exams
IELTS
PTE Academic
GET Global English Test
Duolingo English Test
Test Format
Internet-based (iBT) or Paper-based
Paper-based
Paper-based or Computer-based
Computer-based
Online
Online
Sections
Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing
Reading, Writing, Use of English, Speaking
Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking
Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening
Grammar, Reading, Listening
Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening
Scoring
Scored out of 120
Scored out of 100
Scored on a scale of 0-9
Scored on a scale of 10-90
Scored out of 100 on CEFR standards
Scored on a scale of 10-160
Test Duration
Approximately 4 hours (iBT) or 3 hours (PBT)
Varies based on exam level
Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes
Approximately 3 hours
20 minutes
Varies
Test Takers
Widely accepted for academic and professional purposes worldwide
Widely accepted for academic and professional purposes worldwide
Widely accepted for academic and professional purposes worldwide
Widely accepted for academic and professional purposes worldwide
Globally accepted for professional purposes
Widely accepted for academic and professional purposes worldwide
Pros
Widely recognized and accepted
Offers a range of levels, suitable for different proficiency levels
Simpler scoring system
Fast results turnaround time
Instant result
Convenient and accessible, can be taken remotely
Pros
Computerized testing available
Diverse range of exam levels
No pass or fail, but bands indicating proficiency
Flexible test dates and locations
Flexible
Quick and easy to take, no test center required
Pros
Test content updated regularly
Emphasizes practical language skills
Speaking test conducted as a conversation
Can be retaken without much delay
Immediate personalized English level certificate
Adaptive and personalized test experience
Pros
Can be taken frequently throughout the year
Provides feedback on areas for improvement
Affordable
Offers scholarships based on test scores
Cons
Expensive compared to some other exams
Limited availability in some regions
Fewer locations for test centers
Limited availability of test centers
Mostly used for profiles (Linkedin, Monster, Indeed etc.) or CV / resume
Relatively new, may not be as widely recognized
Price (approx.)
$180-$300 USD
£150-£200
$200-$250 USD
$150-$210 USD
$49 USD

What does the English level test consist of?

Global English Test consists of 3 main parts; Grammar, Reading, Listening.

Part 1: Grammar

The grammar part of an English level test assesses a candidate’s understanding and application of grammatical rules and structures. This section typically includes tasks like multiple-choice questions, fill-in-the-blank exercises, and sentence transformations, focusing on areas such as verb tenses, modals, prepositions, conjunctions, and sentence structure. It aims to evaluate the ability to use grammar correctly in various contexts, ensuring that the candidate can communicate effectively and accurately in English

Part 2: Reading

The reading part of an English level test evaluates a candidate’s ability to understand and interpret written texts. This section typically includes various types of passages, such as articles, essays, and narratives, accompanied by questions like multiple-choice, true/false, matching headings, and short answers. It assesses skills such as comprehension, inference, identifying main ideas and details, and understanding vocabulary in context. The goal is to determine the candidate’s proficiency in reading and understanding English texts

Part 3: Listening

The listening part of an English level test assesses a candidate’s ability to understand spoken English in various contexts. This section typically includes audio recordings of conversations, interviews, lectures, and announcements, followed by questions such as multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, and short answers. It evaluates skills such as comprehension, identifying main ideas and specific details, understanding the speaker’s intent, and recognizing vocabulary and idiomatic expressions in context. The goal is to determine the candidate’s proficiency in processing and interpreting spoken English

How is the English level test scored?

Global English Test scoring and CEFR levels

Global English Test consists of 40 questions. Each question is worth an equal number of points, and if you answer all the questions correctly, you will receive a total of 100 points. Your total score is also indicated according to the CEFR system.

Test Score
CEFR English Language Level
0-20
A1
21-40
A2
41-60
B1
61-74
B2
75-89
C1
90-100
C2

A1 English level certificate

Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. Can introduce themselves and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where they live, people they know, and things they have.

A2 English level certificate

Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g., very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment). Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters.

B1 English level certificate

Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. Can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is spoken.

B2 English level certificate

Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization. Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party.

C1 English level certificate

Can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning. Can express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions.

C2 English level certificate

Can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. Can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation.

How can I prepare to get an English level certificate?

Preparing for an English level test involves several strategies to improve your proficiency across all relevant skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Understand the test format

Familiarize yourself with the structure: Learn about the different sections of the test (e.g., reading, writing, listening, speaking) and the types of questions in each section.

Review official guidelines: Look at official resources and guidelines provided by the testing organization to understand the scoring criteria and what is expected.

2. Practice each skill separately

Reading

  • Read a variety of English texts such as articles, essays, and books.
  • Practice skimming for main ideas and scanning for details.
  • Take practice reading comprehension tests.

Writing

  • Write essays, reports, and letters on various topics.
  • Focus on grammar, vocabulary, coherence, and organization.
  • Get feedback from teachers or use online tools to check your writing.

Listening

  • Listen to English audio resources like podcasts, news reports, and lectures.
  • Practice understanding different accents and speeds of speech.
  • Take practice listening tests and try to summarize the main points.

Speaking

  • Engage in conversations with native or fluent English speakers.
  • Practice speaking about various topics, both informally and in structured formats like presentations.
  • Record yourself speaking and review to improve pronunciation and fluency.

3. Use practice tests

Simulate test conditions: Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions to get used to the test format and time constraints.

Review your answers: After completing practice tests, review your answers to understand your mistakes and learn from them.

4. Study grammar and vocabulary

Grammar

  • Study key grammar rules and practice using them in context.
  • Use grammar workbooks and online exercises.

Vocabulary

  • Expand your vocabulary by reading extensively and learning new words in context.
  • Use flashcards, vocabulary apps, and word lists.

5. Seek professional guidance

Enroll in a prep course: Consider taking a preparatory course specific to the test you are taking, which can provide structured learning and expert guidance.

Hire a tutor: A tutor can provide personalized instruction and feedback to help you improve your weaker areas.

6. Use online resources

Official websites: Use official resources from the test providers for sample questions and practice materials.

Educational platforms: Utilize online platforms like Khan Academy, Coursera, and others that offer courses in English language skills.

7. Stay consistent and motivated

Set a study schedule: Create a consistent study schedule that allows you to practice regularly without overwhelming yourself.

Stay motivated: Set clear goals, track your progress, and reward yourself for milestones achieved.

By combining these strategies, you can effectively prepare for your English level test and improve your chances of achieving a high score.

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