English is the most widely spoken language in the world and is considered the language of business, science, and technology. It is no surprise that many individuals strive to improve their English proficiency in order to advance their career prospects or to study in an English-speaking country.

One way to measure English proficiency is through standardized English language tests. Follow this guide to know more about the most common English language proficiency tests before you decide which one to take.

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

The TOEFL is a widely recognized test that measures English language proficiency of non-native speakers. It is accepted by more than 10,000 universities and institutions in over 150 countries. The TOEFL test is administered online and consists of four sections: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. The total test duration is approximately four hours.

The TOEFL test is more academic-oriented and is usually preferred by students who are planning to study in the United States.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

The IELTS is another popular English language proficiency test that is widely accepted by universities and institutions in over 140 countries. It measures a candidate’s ability to use the English language in academic, social, and workplace contexts.

The IELTS test has two versions: Academic and General Training. The Academic version is designed for students who want to study at the undergraduate or postgraduate level, while the General Training version is for candidates who want to migrate to an English-speaking country for work or immigration purposes.

The IELTS test consists of four sections: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. The total test duration is approximately two hours and 45 minutes.

TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication)

The TOEIC is a test that measures English proficiency for the workplace. It is commonly used by companies and organizations to assess the English language proficiency of their employees or job candidates. The TOEIC test has two sections: Listening and Reading and Speaking and Writing. The total test duration is approximately two hours.

The TOEIC test is ideal for individuals who want to improve their career prospects or for companies that want to evaluate their employees’ English language skills.

Cambridge English Exams

The Cambridge English Exams are a series of English language proficiency tests that are designed to assess a candidate’s ability to use English for communication purposes. These exams are widely recognized by universities, employers, and government agencies around the world.

The Cambridge English Exams have several levels, including A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. The A1 and A2 levels are for beginners, while the B1, B2, C1, and C2 levels are for intermediate and advanced users of English.

The Cambridge English Exams test candidates in four skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

Conclusion

Choosing the right English language proficiency test depends on your goals and objectives. If you are planning to study in the United States, the TOEFL test is a good choice. If you are planning to study or work in a non-US English-speaking country, the IELTS test is more appropriate. If you are seeking to improve your career prospects, the TOEIC test is ideal. If you want to assess your English proficiency for general communication purposes, the Cambridge English Exams are a good option.

Regardless of which test you choose, preparing for the test is essential to achieving a good score. You can take practice tests and use online resources to help you prepare for the test. Good luck!