The main certifications for learners of English as a Foreign Language (EFL)

These evaluations and diplomas are reflecting the current level of a learner. Learners can take them for a personal goal or these certifications can be their trump card for an application. They also are a requirement by some universities.

Integrated Skills in English - ISE

Integrated Skills in English, from Trinity College London ESOL, is a serie of 5 exams, which assesses Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening and is accepted by academic institutions in the UK. ISE on the Website of Trinity College

Graded Examinations in Spoken English – GESE

Graded Examinations in Spoken English from Trinity College London is a serie of 12 exams, which assesses Speaking and Listening. The GESE tests candidates' ability in listening and speaking. There are four stages with three Grades at each Stage: Initial stage, Elementary stage, Intermediate stage, Advanced stage. Click here to learn more abour GESE.

Key English Test - KET

KET from University of Cambridge is an exam which recognises the ability to deal with everyday written and spoken English at a basic level (A2). To learn more about KET, click here.

Preliminary English Test- PET

PET from University of Cambridge is a certificate for people who can use everyday written and spoken English at an intermediate level (B1). You can learn more about the PET here.

First Certificate in English - FCE

FCE from University of Cambridge is aimed at people who can use everyday written and spoken English at an upper-intermediate level (B2). It is an ideal exam for people who want to use English for work or study purposes. FCE on the Website of Cambridge ESOL.

Certificate in Advanced English - CAE

CAE from University of Cambridge is an exam for advanced users of English (level C1). This exam is aimed at people who can use written and spoken English for most professional and social purposes. It is widely recognised for work or study purposes. Click here to learn more about the CAE.

Certificate of Proficiency in English – CPE

Certificate of Proficiency in English Cambridge is ESOL's most advanced exam (level C2). It is aimed at people who can use English for professional or study purposes. You can learn more about the CPE here.

International English Language Testing System – IELTS

IELTS is recognised by more than 6000 institutions in over 135 countries. It tests all four language skills – listening, reading, writing and speaking and it is designed to assess English language skills at all levels. Results are reported on a scale from 1 to 9. More about the IELTS.

Test of English as a Foreign Language - TOEFL

TOEFL is an Educational Testing Service (ETS) product, developed and used primarily for academic institutions. The current test is an Internet-based test, and is thus known as the TOEFL iBT. It is used as a proxy for English for Academic Purposes. More information about the TOEFL here.

Test of English for International Communication – TOEIC

TOEIC is an Educational Testing Service (ETS) product for Business English. TOEIC test scores provide accurate, reliable measurement of English proficiency. Over 9,000 organizations use it in more than 90 countries. You can find out more about the TOEIC here.

The Spoken English for Work – SEW

The SEW examination is a work-related Speaking and Listening examination based on the candidate's chosen sector and available at four levels corresponding to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). The exams are designed for anyone aged 16 and above who is already working or is preparing to enter the world of work. Click here to know more abour the SEW.

Pearson Test of English General - PTE General

The Pearson Test of English General is designed to reward positive achievement in English language learning. It consists of two parts: a written paper and an oral test. There are 6 levels: Foundation A1, Elementary A2, Intermediate B1, Upper Intermediate B2, Advanced C1, Proficient C2. To know more about the PTE General, click here.

TELC general language tests

TELC tests are aimed at adults who wish to certify their language abilities. The tests cover the 6 levels of the CEFR. You can read more about the different levels of the TELC here.