University Entrance
While some general EFL examinations are accepted as proof of a sufficient level of English for entrance by many universities in English speaking countries, there are also special examinations for those wishing to study in English.
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an assessment system designed to provide evidence of the language ability necessary to study in English at degree level. It is recognised by many universities in Britain, Australia, New Zealand and Canada. IELTS covers all four language skills – listening, speaking, reading and writing. The results are reported in nine bands, from non-users in Band 1 to expert users in Band 9, whilst Band 6 is a good pass at Level 3 (see section on General English). IELTS is jointly administered by UCLES, the British Council and IDP Education Australia.
EFL Information, University of Cambridge, Local Examinations Syndicate, 1 Hills Road, Cambridge CB1 2EU
Tel +44 01223 553355, Fax +44 01223 460278
http://www.cambridge-efl.org.uk
efl@ucles.org.uk
The Northern Universities and Assessment Board (NEAB) runs the University Entrance Test in ESOL, which also offers profiles of results in each skill. This is also widely accepted for study in English at British institutions.
Northern Examination and Assessment Board (AQA), Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX
Tel +44 0161 953 1180, fax +44 0161 273 7572
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is run from the USA. Its purpose is to evaluate the English proficiency of people who are non-native speakers of English. Satisfactory TOEFL scores are required for admission by many universities and colleges in the USA and Canada. It is a computer-based test, which lasts approximately four hours. The tests are administered from centres all over the world, and scores are mailed approximately two weeks after the tests take place.
TOEFL Sevices, Educational Testing Service, PO Box 6151, Princeton, NJ 08541-6151, USA
Tel +1 609 771 7100, Fax +1 609 771 7500
http://www.toefl.org
toefl@ets.org
