If you’re looking for exams similar to IELTS that assess English proficiency, several options are available depending on your goals, such as studying abroad, working, or immigrating. Here’s a breakdown of other exams like IELTS:
1. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- Purpose: Primarily for academic purposes, accepted by universities in the U.S., Canada, and other countries.
- Format:
- Internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT) is the most common format.
- Focuses on North American English.
- Sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing.
- Scoring: 0-120, with 30 points per section.
- Duration: About 4 hours.
2. PTE (Pearson Test of English Academic)
- Purpose: Academic and immigration purposes, widely accepted in Australia, New Zealand, and some other countries.
- Format: Entirely computer-based, automated scoring.
- Sections: Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening.
- Scoring: 10-90 scale.
- Duration: 2 hours.
3. CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
- Purpose: Primarily for Canadian immigration and work applications.
- Format: Computer-based.
- Versions:
- CELPIP-General (for immigration and work).
- CELPIP-General LS (for citizenship).
- Sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking.
- Scoring: Levels 1-12.
- Duration: About 3 hours.
4. OET (Occupational English Test)
- Purpose: For healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, etc.) seeking to work or study in English-speaking countries.
- Format: Profession-specific content.
- Sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking.
- Scoring: Graded from A (highest) to E (lowest).
- Duration: About 3 hours.
5. Cambridge English Exams
- Purpose: General and academic English proficiency for work, study, or immigration.
- Popular Options:
- C1 Advanced (CAE): Academic and professional purposes.
- C2 Proficiency (CPE): Highest level of English proficiency.
- Format: Paper-based or computer-based.
- Scoring: Scale of 140-230, corresponding to CEFR levels.
6. Duolingo English Test
- Purpose: Fast, convenient, and widely accepted by universities.
- Format: Online test taken from home.
- Sections: Integrated questions assessing all skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking).
- Scoring: 10-160 scale.
- Duration: 1 hour.
7. TESOL/TEFL/ESOL Certifications
- Purpose: For teaching English as a second language.
- Format: Varies; some are exam-based, while others involve coursework.
- Focus: Teacher qualification rather than learner proficiency.
Comparison Factors:
Test | Purpose | Delivery Mode | Scoring | Test Length |
---|---|---|---|---|
IELTS | Study, work, immigration | Paper/Computer | 0-9 bands | 2 hours 45 minutes |
TOEFL | Academic | Computer | 0-120 | ~4 hours |
PTE | Academic, immigration | Computer | 10-90 | ~2 hours |
CELPIP | Immigration, work | Computer | Levels 1-12 | ~3 hours |
Duolingo | Academic | Online | 10-160 | ~1 hour |
Each test has unique advantages, so choose one based on your target institutions, geographic region, or preferred test format.