Types of English language tests and the differences between them

Do you dream of studying abroad? So, you may already know that you need to take English language tests as part of the admission requirements. It is also a mandatory requirement while applying for a student visa.

One of the English language tests is usually required to help students (whose first language is not English) have a chance to study in countries where English is the first language.

Apart from these reasons, English test also helps you understand, read and write the language better. It also prepares you to apply both written and spoken English seamlessly once you migrate to your dream study destination.

Students who wish to study abroad must take an English language test as a mandatory requirement for their applications to be accepted by universities. Some universities also require students to have minimum test scores, depending on the course requirements.

If you are interested in traveling abroad to study or if you are simply looking for resources to help you understand English proficiency tests, this is the place to check out the relevant details.

What are English language tests?

There are 4 main English language tests recognized by most educational institutions around the world, such as IELTS, TOEFL, OET, and PTE.

Some of these exams are standardized and test your knowledge of the English language, and some are field or career specific, which test your understanding of technical terms and jargon.

English language test IELTS

If you want to study in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United States or the United Kingdom, IELTS is a great choice. IELTS tests can be used to apply for all fields of study across universities. The IELTS test can be taken directly after school or after completing your bachelor's degree, depending on your requirements.

• IELTS is globally recognized by immigration bodies and institutions to process student applications.
• Tests are rated on a scale from 0-9; The higher the score, the better your control of the language. Some universities, immigration bodies and organizations have minimum IELTS scores for eligibility.
• IELTS English language proficiency tests have been developed in a way that provides an accurate and fair assessment of your knowledge.
• Evaluates IELTS tests Your proficiency in 4 main sections: reading, writing, listening and speaking.

TOEFL English Language Proficiency Test

TOEFL tests are designed to help students understand and communicate effectively and efficiently in a college or university setting. TOEFL tests usually take 4 hours and include an optional 10-minute break. TOEFL tests are mostly designed for students who want to study abroad.

• TOEFL English language proficiency tests are graded on a scale from 0 to 120
• The test consists of 4 parts: listening, speaking, writing and reading.
• Tests are graded by online mentors and anonymously, making it an unbiased and fair grading system.
• This is the only English test that combines AI technology with real-life classroom teachers.
• Your test scores are valid for 3 years from the results date, and the test pattern also allows you to retake the test an unlimited number of times, but it can only be taken once every XNUMX days.

English language test OTS

The Occupational English Test or OET is prescribed for aspiring doctors and healthcare professionals to ensure effective communication with patients and internal requirements. 

This English proficiency test consists of realistic tasks and scenarios that assess international students' communication and comprehension skills.

• An English language test can be taken OTS At an offline center or online at a designated testing location. Both are equal in value, weight and style. English has been developed for 12 healthcare professions such as dentistry, medicine, physiotherapy, optometry, veterinary science, and a few others.
• OET tests can be taken in an offline center or online at a designated testing location. Both are equal in value, weight and style.
• OET tests your listening, reading, writing and speaking skills.
• It is trusted and recognized by universities and hospitals in the UK, USA, Australia, Dubai, New Zealand and Ireland.
• The OET is graded on a scale of 0 to 500 and A to E (a higher score represents a better understanding of the language).

English language test PTE

Also called Pearson PTE it is recognized by all universities and other institutions in the UK, Australia and New Zealand for all immigration and visa requirements. They provide fast and fair skills assessment using AI-based technology.

• The PTE test assesses proficiency in listening, reading, writing, and speaking in the English language.
• Tests can be taken at any time. You can schedule your test 24 hours in advance, 365 days in advance. Results are usually available within 48 hours of completion time.
• PTE is the first fully AI-based English language test recognized by universities.
• PTE exams are conducted globally at specific centres.