How to get an international certificate. How much does it cost to take IELTS or TOEFL
English Linguistic Center "First Decision" offers effective preparation for the international FCE, CAE, IELTS and TOEFL exams, paying due attention to all aspects of the exam in accordance with the exam format.
Studying in one of the training courses to prepare for international exams at the English Linguistic Center "First Decision" and passing the exam at an accredited CAMBRIDGE ENGLISH examination center for Cambridge examinations will help you to get a certificate recognized throughout the world and confirming your level of English language proficiency.
An international certificate is a document confirming knowledge of a language and recognized by educational institutions and employers around the world. An international certificate can be obtained by passing a special exam in English.
All certificates can be roughly divided into 2 groups:
American (TOEFL, JET, etc.)
British (IELTS, FCE, CAE, etc.)
Certificates also differ in purpose, for example: TOEFL is a standardized test of English proficiency that is taken for academic purposes, CEELT is the Cambridge English Language Exam for Educators, and BEC is the University of Cambridge exam designed to certify business English proficiency.
In addition, certificates are categorized according to "spheres of influence", that is, the countries in which they are recognized. This means that educational institutions of these countries can accept holders of such documents without additional language exams, and government agencies consider such certificates as confirmation of the language knowledge of applicants for citizenship, work, etc. Having a certificate confirms the ability to work with English-language documentation, use English in management, as well as in any other field, for example, in tourism, where it is required to maintain contacts with English-speaking colleagues.
Whether you are planning to study abroad, move to another country and get a job, start a career or simply test your ability, First Decision's International Exam Preparation Program is exactly what you need.
1. Cambridge English: Key - Key English Test (KET)
Preparation course for the international KET exam.
This course is designed for students who speak English at the Elementary (A1) level and want to thoroughly prepare for the KET exam.
The Cambridge English: Key - Key English Test (KET) is a basic level qualification that validates your ability to communicate in English in simple everyday situations.
KET is the first in the Cambridge English (ESOL) series of General English examinations that tests four types of speech activity: Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking.
The KET certificate is recognized by a number of organizations as proof of basic English proficiency.
Most educational institutions also accept the KET certificate as proof of proficiency in basic English.
In preparation for the exam, students will get acquainted with the exam format, learn how to perform typical tasks for each of the 3 sections of this exam: reading (and writing (Reading & Writing), listening (Listening), speaking (Speaking); learn to act within the time frame established by the exam format; expand their vocabulary.
Preparing for the Cambridge English: Key - Key English Test (KET) exam will give you practical skills in using the English language and you will be able to:
understand and use basic phrases and expressions
introduce yourself and answer basic questions about yourself
communicate in English when your interlocutors speak slowly and clearly
write short, simple messages
Tutorials: Objective KEY (Cambridge UP), Cambridge English: KEY 1 - 7 (past papers / practice tests) (Cambridge UP), Speaking Test Preparation Pack for KET (Cambridge UP).
2. Cambridge English: Preliminary - Preliminary English Test (PET)
PET is the second exam in the Cambridge General English exam series. The exam confirms knowledge of English at the intermediate level (Intermediate) or B1, according to. At this level, students are required to demonstrate their skills in using English in everyday situations.
The exam consists of 3 parts - Reading and Writing, Listening, Speaking.
At this level of language proficiency, students can communicate in spoken and written English in everyday situations at an intermediate level.
Knowledge of English, corresponding to the PET certificate, presupposes the ability to use the language in everyday situations, while traveling, at work and during correspondence.
PET certification is recognized by a number of organizations as certification of intermediate English proficiency.
The PET exam preparation program includes:
systemic development of all language skills: reading, writing, speaking and listening
familiarity with the exam format and completing assignments in this format
training in scheduling time when performing tasks
analysis of typical mistakes when performing tasks in PET format
At the end of the course, you will be able to:
significantly improve your vocabulary
understand the main thing in direct instructions and public messages
feel at ease in most situations that can arise while traveling
ask questions and engage in substantive conversations at work
writing letters and taking notes on familiar topics
Tutorials: Complete PET (Cambridge UP), Cambridge English: Preliminary 1 - 8 (past papers / practice tests), Objective PET (Cambridge UP), Instant PET (Cambridge UP), Insight into PET (Cambridge UP).
3. Cambridge English: First - First Certificate in English (FCE)
At this level of language proficiency, one can confidently communicate in spoken and written English in everyday situations at an above-intermediate level. FCE-certified English can be used in everyday life, as well as at work and in school. The areas of application for the certificate are many and varied.
The FCE certificate has no expiration date.
The purpose of this course is to familiarize students with the exam format, teach them how to perform typical tasks for each of the 4 sections of this exam: Reading & Use of English, Writing, Listening, Speaking.
During the course, students:
perform tasks that correspond to the exam format
operate within the time frame established by the exam format
develop writing, reading, speaking and listening skills
expand their vocabulary
During the training, control tests are carried out to check the knowledge gained.
Upon completion of the Cambridge English: First - First Certificate in English (FCE) preparation course, students will be able to:
understand the main idea of the text describing practical and abstract subjects
take an active role in technical discussions within their own competence
speak fluently with a native speaker without mutual effort
communicate easily on various topics
discuss international news
be able to analyze the advantages and disadvantages of a particular situation
Tutorials: Cambridge English: First 1 - 2 (past papers / practice tests), Grammar and Vocabulary for First and First for Schools (Cambridge UP), First Trainer (Cambridge UP), Compact First (Cambridge UP), Objective First (Cambridge UP), Complete First (Cambridge UP).
4. Cambridge English: Advance - Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)
CAE (Certificate in Advanced English) is the fourth exam in a series of Cambridge General English examinations, which corresponds to C1 (Advanced) level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The CAE exam is excellent for those who actively use spoken and written English in the fields of professional activity and everyday communication.
It is assumed that at such a high level of knowledge of the language, one can confidently communicate in spoken and written English in everyday situations, while obtaining higher education and solving professional problems.
In the CAE exam preparation program, all types of speech activities that make up the exam format are practiced: Reading and Use of English, Writing, Listening and Speaking.
In the learning process, students:
learn to freely express their thoughts orally and in writing
increase their vocabulary by studying synonyms and antonyms, homonyms, borrowings, idioms, phraseological units, comparisons and comparisons
communicate activates and systematizes difficult grammatical material
get acquainted with the format of the exam
After completing the course, students will be able to:
understand long and linguistically complex texts, including understanding their hidden meaning
express yourself easily and spontaneously without difficulty
flexibly and effectively use language resources in social, business, academic or academic contexts
be able to present complex topics in a clear, structured and detailed manner, link plots together using a diverse range of linguistic resources
The applications for the certificate are many and varied and are highly regarded by companies and universities around the world. In many countries, higher education institutions consider the presence of the Cambridge CAE certificate as an indicator of knowledge of the English language at a level that allows you to study and take exams in various specialties in English.
Tutorials: Cambridge English: Advanced 1,2 (past papers / practice tests), Grammar and Vocabulary for Advanced (Cambridge UP), Advanced Trainer (Cambridge UP), Compact Advanced (Cambridge UP), Objective Advanced (Cambridge UP), Complete Advanced (Cambridge UP).
5. Cambridge English: Proficiency - Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
CPE is one of the most difficult Cambridge exams. Successfully passing the CPE means that you are as fluent in English as an educated Englishman. The CPE certificate corresponds to the C2 level of the CEFR Common European Framework of Reference for Languages and is an international exam confirming the highest level of proficiency in English.
The exam consists of 4 parts: Reading and Use of English, Writing, Listening, Speaking.
Many higher education institutions in different countries consider the presence of the Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) certificate as evidence that a candidate can study at universities with very high requirements for knowledge of the English language, and can cope with a task of any complexity.
The CPE Exam Preparation course is aimed at practical preparation of students to successfully complete the exam. As a result of the course, students will gain a complete understanding of the exam format and strategies for the effective implementation of exam tasks, raise the level of knowledge, and gain experience in passing the exam in conditions as close as possible to the conditions of this exam.
After completing the Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) exam preparation course, students will be able to:
understand almost everything they read and hear effortlessly
summarize information from various oral and written sources, as well as reproduce the main idea and logical connections of this information in a sequential manner
speak freely and accurately
defend one's opinion during discussions on complex topics
Study guides: Cambridge English: Proficiency 1,2 (past papers / practice tests), Objective Proficiency (Cambridge UP), New Progress to Proficiency (Cambridge UP).
6. Cambridge English: Business - Business English Certificate (BEC)
The preparation course for the international BEC exam is designed for students who have completed the Active English for Adults Business Course program ("Business English" section of the "For adults" training course) and who want to thoroughly prepare for the exam.
The Cambridge BEC exam is an internationally recognized level of English proficiency that demonstrates the ability to use English at work.
To be successful in international business, you need a good knowledge of the English language. By passing the international BEC exam, you will gain new opportunities, including significant advantages in hiring with a greater likelihood of rapid career growth.
BEC is recognized by many large companies, government agencies, emigration agencies, educational institutions around the world as a must-have for business English.
The results of the Cambridge BEC exam are recognized by such leading international companies as Sony Ericsson, Shell, Vodafone, Bayer, Coca-Cola, HSBC.
BEC comes in three difficulty levels:
1. BEC Preliminary designed for students who speak business English at the Intermediate (B1) level
2. BEC Vantage(designed for students who know Business English at the Upper-Intermediate (B2) level
3. BEC Higher(intended for students who have completed the Advanced (C1) Business English course.
The BEC preparation program includes tasks for the development of reading (Reading), writing (Writing), listening (Listening) and speaking (Speaking) in work situations, i.e. the ability to understand business texts, correspondence, advertising, articles, write letters and reports, listen to business monologues and dialogues, discuss work-related topics.
The structure of all BEC tests is the same, only the number and complexity of tasks, as well as the time allotted for their execution, differ.
Tutorials: Business Benchmark (Cambridge UP), Cambridge English: BEC (past papers / practice tests).
7. IELTS - International English Language Testing System
The program is designed for students who have completed the basic course of the Pre-Intermediate level according to the European Level Scale established by the Council of Europe, and who want to prepare for the IELTS exam format to confirm the level of language proficiency for admission to a foreign university and migration.
IELTS is an internationally recognized English exam developed by The British Council in collaboration with The University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate and Australia (Internationаl Development Program of Australian Universities and Colleges). Based on the results of the exam, a conclusion is made on the examiner's ability to study in the chosen specialty in educational institutions in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and a number of other countries where teaching is in English, on admission to work or the issuance of a residence permit.
The IELTS preparation course program covers all the features and aspects of the exam format assessed in the course of passing: Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking. The program covers the entire format and includes an analysis of all parts of the exam. Much attention is paid to the strategy and development of techniques for performing all potential types of tasks by modules and levels.
There are two versions of the exam:
1. IELTS Academic - designed for people who go to universities and other higher education institutions where teaching is in English
2. IELTS General - for those who apply for emigration to an English-speaking country or plan to work in an English-speaking company.
After completing the preparation course for the IELTS exam - International English Language Testing System, students:
learn to work on all aspects of writing: relevance to the topic, consistency and coherence, style, vocabulary and grammar
learn to describe various types of diagrams, processes, maps, the evolution of objects, essays
will replenish vocabulary on the main topics of the spoken part
will be able to allocate time to perform any type of task
The course program includes a mock exam followed by an assessment of the results and analysis of errors.
The IELTS certificate is only valid for two years.
Study guides: Complete IELTS (Cambridge UP), Objective IELTS (Cambridge UP), The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS (Cambridge UP), New insight into IELTS (Cambridge UP), Cambridge English: IELTS (past papers / practice tests), IELTS Trainer (Cambridge UP).
8. TOEFL - Test of English as a Foreign Language
TOEFL is an American English exam, which is designed to assess the level of knowledge of the English language and is structured in the form of multiple choice questions.
The exam was developed by the American Educational Testing Service.
TOEFL is vital for admission to more than 2,400 colleges and universities in the US and Canada, for MBA programs and for those whose employers put forward TOEFL as a prerequisite of work
It is also recognized in higher education institutions, businesses, research centers in other English-speaking countries and in about 150 non-English-speaking countries.
Currently TOEFL consists of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.
TOEFL preparation is aimed at students with Intermediate (B1) or Upper - Intermediate (B2) proficiency levels according to the CEFR Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
First Decision English Linguistic Center's TOEFL preparation course will introduce students to the exam format and sample assignments for each of the 4 sections of this exam. Students will learn to act within the time frame established by the exam format, expand their vocabulary. The preparation program includes work with grammar, pronunciation and basic speaking skills, as well as work with past papers and a mock exam
The course aims at:
improvement of the general level of English, including 4 basic skills - reading, writing, speaking and listening
expanding the ability of students to apply the specialized language required to take the TOEFL
maximizing the potential and ensuring rapid progress of students through a large number of practical exercises
TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years.
Study guides: Cambridge Preparation for the TOEFL Test (Cambridge), TOEFL preparation (Barron's).
Tutorials:
If you are faced with the need to pass an international test that will determine your level of English proficiency, then you are planning to move abroad in the near future in order to continue your studies or employment. Prestigious universities and employing companies put forward fairly high requirements for candidates, among which there are also minimum scores received for a particular language test.
In addition, if you just want to move to live in another country, you will also need to pass one of the international exams that will determine your level of English. It is impossible to fail some tests, in any case you will get at least some point, some have the mark “Fail” in the exam grading system - not passed.
Of course, it is better to get the maximum number of points. But you need to remember that your result will depend not only on the level of English, but also on the preparation for the exam format. Each of the language tests has its own characteristics, in addition, a certain amount of time is allocated for the task, which may not be enough for you if you do not calculate in advance how many minutes you will allocate to which task.
There are a lot of tests to determine the level of English proficiency. You just need to choose the one that is right for you.
Types of international examinations in English
All tests for determining the level of English are designed for those who are studying the language as a foreign language and are not native speakers. Typically, the choice of test will depend on the choice of the country in which you want to study or work.
The most popular international exams are:, and Cambridge tests.
TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication)
An exam to determine your level of proficiency in Business English. The TOEIC certificate is valid for two years, therefore it is better to take the test on the eve of your official employment or admission to a foreign university.
TOEFL or IELTS: which one to choose?
We have already talked about the exam and about its American colleague. We just want to draw your attention to the fact that the choice of exam will depend on the country: in the USA and Canada the TOEFL results are recognized, in the UK and Australia they prefer IELTS or Cambridge exams.
The IELTS certificate, like the TOEFL certificate, is valid for 2 years from the date of the test results. This is where the University of Cambridge exams differ from IELTS and TOEFL, as they do not have a limited duration.
Without deliberate preparation, it will be difficult to pass the exams. We have compiled a list of schools in Moscow that will help you prepare for and.
Looking for courses in another city? The service will help you choose training courses in your city for free.
Cambridge language tests
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More than 2 million people take the Cambridge language exams every year.
There are also special Cambridge exams for children and adolescents: Cambridge Young Learners Exams. They are designed for different ages and language levels: Starters, Movers and Flyers. The main purpose of these tests is to prepare young candidates for the future Cambridge adult exams.
Each exam has its own characteristics, and yet there are some things in common among all English tests:
- At first, all of these exams are designed for learners of English as a foreign language
- Secondly, test results are recognized by educational institutions in English-speaking countries and employing companies
- Thirdly by passing the test, you will receive an international certificate
- Quarters x, you can pass each of these exams only on the basis of an official test center for accepting international tests
- Fifth The exams test all your language skills: reading, writing, speaking, listening
Which exam should you choose?
There is also a classification that helps to simplify the process of choosing the type of international exam. A number of tests check general English, some tests measure your level of academic English, and there are exams to test your level of proficiency in business English only.
General English Exams
We include and among exams that test proficiency in general English. The Key English Test tests the development of basic language skills. The exam is graded based on the percentage earned. If you get less than 65% - you will get the mark "Fail" - not passed.
Preliminary English Test is a preparatory exam that is usually taken by those who want to participate in the Work and Travel or Work and Study programs. The test is scored in the same way as KET. Only if you get 65-69% - you get a certificate "passed to level A2".
Professional and Academic English Exams
These exams include a number of Cambridge tests: FCE, CAE, CPE, as well as IELTS and TOEFL. These exams test your English proficiency at an academic level and you can use their results to apply to higher education institutions.Business English Exams
In addition to the exam, which we have already mentioned, there is another exam for checking proficiency in Business English - BULATS, the name of which stands for Business Language Testing Service. This exam is multilingual, that is, it can assess the level of proficiency not only in English, but also in German, Spanish or French. The minimum level of English proficiency to pass this exam must be at least Intermediate. Business exams also include ILEC and ICFE specialized tests.We wish you success in preparing and passing your international language exams!
Surely every English student at least once in his life thought about obtaining a certificate confirming his knowledge. At the same time, it is necessary that the received document be useful, and not gather dust on the shelf next to the Soviet encyclopedia. In this article, we will tell you why you need a certificate of knowledge of English, which document you should get, and how you can become the owner of a certificate of completion of English courses at our school.
What are the certificates in English
English language proficiency certificates can be roughly divided into two large groups:
1. International Certificate in English
Such a document can be obtained as a result of passing exams, TOEIC,. These certificates are the most prestigious and multifunctional: you can use them both in Russia and abroad. Such documents have only one drawback - exams are not cheap, and some of them are valid for only two years. In addition, international exams require a long and thorough preparation.
2. Certificate of completion of courses or school of English
They are of two types:
- International School of English Graduation Certificate
Such documents are issued by well-known brands like English First or International House, which have branches in many countries. The names of such schools are "well known": they are known by the majority of employers in countries where there is a representative office of the brand. Typically, these schools issue two certificates: a standard document on the completion of courses is issued free of charge, and for a fee, you can get a certificate from an international school. The latter document is recognized in countries where there are branches of the school. However, companies still prefer the more prestigious international certificates, which we mentioned in the first paragraph.
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Scope of application:
- work abroad;
- work in Russia;
- studying abroad.Test duration: 2.5-3 hours
Certificate waiting period: up to 2 months
Validity: unlimited
Cost: 3,600-11,000 rubles depending on the level
Where to take it: at a certified center
Required level of knowledge for passing: Intermediate, Upper-Intermediate, Advanced according to the exam option
Feature: you will need a certificate for obtaining a second higher education abroad, as well as for communication in a business environment
How to get a certificate of completion of English courses at our school
The Certificate of Completion of English Courses is the easiest document to obtain and can prove your knowledge. In our school, you can become the owner of such a certificate in the shortest possible time and completely free of charge. At the same time, you can take the test online at any time convenient for you by prior arrangement.
Who can get our school certificate? Every student is eligible for a Certificate of Completion in English courses after completing ANY in our school. To do this, you need to contact our managers, and they will select a time convenient for you. Testing is free. Please note: we certify not just the level of knowledge, but that you have completed training at a certain level in our school.
How is testing done?? Your knowledge will be tested by the methodologist of the school. The test takes about one hour and takes place online. All test items are based on the material passed, so as a result you will be able to check how well you speak English at a given level.
When will you receive your test results?? Within one working day after passing the test, we will provide you with a certificate of completion of the English language courses at our school in electronic form. The electronic version of the document can be easily attached to a letter with your resume or printed in a printing house. We can provide you with a printed version of the certificate upon request. Each document has a unique number, and it will also indicate your grade on the A-D scale, where A corresponds to an assessment of 5 points, B - 4 points, C - 3 points, D - 2 points. You can read more about the testing conditions on the page.
Despite the fact that such a certificate is not quoted abroad, you can use it domestically, for example, present it to your employer or to the embassy for an interview. In addition, this document will motivate you to further improve your knowledge.
A certificate in English is a good help in almost any area of life and a reason for pride. And we advise you to pay special attention to the issue of obtaining this document for those who learn English for work. Whether you take an international exam or receive a certificate of completion in English courses, you gain an advantage in applying for a position. Good luck with your exam!
A series of international certificates (among which: the ISO 9001 certificate of conformity and many others) is used to create and control a product quality management system, as well as to improve the company's management as a whole. The standards include requirements for the enterprise quality system, basic terms and recommendations for optimizing work.
International certificates are required if you plan to cooperate with foreign companies or develop European markets.
The ISO 9001 certificate of conformity gives the company many advantages, for example:
- improving the quality of products or services;
- sales growth;
- improving the company's image in the domestic and world markets;
- profit growth.
There are several significant international quality certificates in the world that are issued by reputable certification organizations. The most famous and recognized worldwide is the ISO (ISO) certificate. For the countries of the European Union, the main product quality standard is the CE marking. Another widespread international system of standards (international certification) is HACCP, it operates in the field of food production.
An international quality certificate or certificate of conformity (for example, so 9001 2008, iso 9001) is issued to enterprises and organizations wishing to confirm that their products, services, organization of production or management comply with international quality standards.
Where can you get quality certificates?
The issuance of international quality certificates is carried out by many certification centers. The most famous and authoritative are the following systems and networks in which you can obtain an international quality certificate (certificate of conformity):
- IQ Net;
- O.T.C (USA);
- SGS;
- IQNET;
- LLOYD Register (UK);
- DNV - Det Norske Veritas;
- Buro Veritas Quality International (UK).
The choice of a certification center depends on the needs of your business. You need to determine the country in which accreditation (international certification) is most desirable, or a unique certification program offered by this or that certification system, network.
IQNet certificates
IQNet is an international network of certification bodies. In total, there are about 300 thousand certificates of a single IQNet sample in the world, and the network itself offers many certification and expert assessment programs in innovative areas of management:
- Certification of social responsibility management systems for compliance with the requirements of the international standard SA 8000;
- Certification of social responsibility management systems for compliance with the requirements of the international specification IQNet SR 10;
- Assessment for compliance with the BSCI Code of Social Responsibility;
- Certification of business continuity management for compliance with BS 25999 requirements;
- IQNet Business Improvement Program;
- Certification of websites of organizations, etc.
Benefits of obtaining an international certificate
Certification in the international system (international certification iso 9001) becomes for buyers and partners a guarantee of the stability of a high level of products or services provided.
international certification confirms the company's image in the international market;
certificates from leading certification centers are recognized and appreciated all over the world;
contribute to an increase in the degree of confidence of buyers / consumers in the products / services of the enterprise;
they open up broad opportunities for partnerships in the markets of other countries;
the enterprise will operate a unified harmonized approach to auditing.
What is the procedure for international certification?
The process of obtaining a quality certificate for products is divided into several stages.
Applying for certification.
Selection, identification of samples and their testing.
Examination of materials.
Assessment of production.
Production check.
Issuance of a certificate of conformity.
The certification body sends an act on the results of the inspection of production, the draft certificate to its technical center. Test reports, production assessment results, other documents on the conformity of products received by the certification body are analyzed for the final conclusion on the conformity of products to the specified requirements. Based on the results of the assessment, an expert opinion is drawn up. This is the main document on the basis of which the certification body decides to issue a certificate of conformity (international certificate).
If you are about to enter a higher educational institution abroad, emigration or interview and employment in an international company, then in all you need "proof" that you speak English at the proper level. This “proof” will be one of a series of international English proficiency exams. Of course, you first need to decide which specific international exam is suitable in your case in order to achieve the goal, and seriously prepare for it. So let "s see what we have here.
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Life does not stand still and presents us with surprises and a lot of new things, demanding not to stop there. Each person strives to achieve certain results and leave his mark on this world. In modern society, English dominates all linguistic charters. In order to test your knowledge and document it, international exams in English were invented.
Some take them to study or work abroad, others use exams as an incentive to learn a language, while others need a certificate for a successful career in their country. Be that as it may, and among students of English, such exams are gradually gaining popularity all over the world. This article will talk about the most famous international exams in English, their comparison and, of course, the answer to the question "Is it necessary at all?" Let's start with him.
Why do you need an international exam?
Really! After all, this requires money (the exam is not free), energy and a lot of time! But nevertheless, there are reasons for everything. For example:
- First of all, the exam is passed to obtain a special certificate, which will officially confirm your knowledge. Having received it, you can enroll in prestigious universities that are located abroad (for example, in the USA or Canada,
as well as other countries where the main language of communication is English). More than 7,500 educational institutions in English-speaking countries will require your document. - Getting a decent job abroad also unlikely without a certificate, because no one needs illiterate employees. In order to successfully settle abroad, you need to pass this exam and a certificate with a high score. The higher it is, the more likely it will be that you get a job with a high pay. Everyone wants to occupy not the last positions, but this requires persistent training, a lot of desire and patience. Yes, different companies require different levels of language proficiency, but often this indicator should be above 80 points. So ... you better be ready.
- In addition, you can pass such an exam for self-affirmation... It will be nice to check your capabilities and get a document that confirms your literacy and skills, and, possibly, will help you win a dispute (the certificate will become iron proof).
The passed exam is a guarantee that you are fluent in the given language and can communicate and write fluently in it.
Types of international exams
The diversity of this sector of knowledge is due to specific preferences in certain regions of the world. That is, one exam is passed at one site, and another at another. Now we will introduce you to the main varieties of this section of knowledge.
Recently, more and more people are taking international exams in English: TOEFL, IELTS, CAE, FCE and others. Let's start with TOEFL.
TOEFL - Test of English as a Foreign Language
The most common and most popular type of international exam for the United States. The TOEFL exam was prepared by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), Princeton University, New Jersey, USA. main feature the TOEFL exam is that it is based on American English, therefore, in order to successfully pass the TOEFL, you need to understand the lexical and grammatical subtleties that distinguish American English from British English.
This knowledge control is designed to measure your level of knowledge at an academic level. Most likely, if you decide to study at universities in the United States or Canada, then you will have to take it. It is worth noting that this test of knowledge of American English has received approval and a lot of positive reviews from various government and even international organizations. It can certainly be said that this is the leading English language exam among its other brethren.
The main purpose of the international exam TOEFL- to assess the level of training of those for whom English is not their first language. Submitting TOEFL scores is a prerequisite for admission to over 2,400 colleges and universities in the US, Canada and some other countries. The TOEFL certificate is a document required when enrolling in foreign universities for studying under the MBA program, when obtaining the right to an internship in English or for applying for a job that requires knowledge of English. Some academic and professional certification programs also require applicants to take the TOEFL. The certificate is valid for two years.
There are now 2 versions of the test: Paper-based Test (PBT), that is, a written test on paper, and Internet-based Test (iBT) - testing via the Internet. The second option has recently been considered preferable in many universities, since it includes tasks not only for reading, listening and writing, but also for speaking and combined tasks.
Like most exams of this type, it has 4 stages:
- Reading(read and translate 3 texts, answer a number of questions);
- Letter(write 2 essays on the given topics; emphasis on grammar, accuracy and stylistic correctness);
- Listening(listen to 2 texts in American English and answer a series of questions, or pass a series of tests for each);
- Talk(communication with the examiner in American English + answer 6 questions, clearly formulating your thought).
All tasks must be completed with maximum precision. The approximate cost of this exam will be 260/180 US dollars for residents of Russia and Ukraine, respectively.
The maximum number of points in the computer version of TOEFL, which almost completely replaced the old paper version, is 120 ... To study at a prestigious American university, on average, at least 80 points.
IELTS - International English Language Testing System
This exam type tests your knowledge of British English. IELTS appeared later than TOEFL, but it is gaining more and more popularity. This exam is considered more extensive, because, unlike the previous one, it is divided and taken in 2 modules.
You can take English at the academic level ( Academic Module, for those entering universities abroad), or you can - in general ( General Module(for those who leave for permanent residence in Canada, Australia or New Zealand, etc.). Both versions also consist of 4 parts: “Reading” (60 minutes), “Writing” (60 minutes), “Listening” (40 minutes), “Speaking” (11-14 minutes). The first 2 parts differ in different modules, the other 2 - listening and interviewing - are the same. English texts for the exam are selected in such a way as to cover the maximum level of your knowledge and objectively evaluate them.
The test result is valid for 2 years from the date of receipt.
KET - Key English Test
The test is intended for adults and children from 15 years old... For young children, namely from 11 to 14 years old, the Exam, being an exam of the University of Cambridge, is developed directly by the examination department of the University of the same name, Cambridge ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages).
In principle, everyone who has recently started learning English and has already made small progress can take the exam. After all KET tests basic knowledge, including the ability to use simple phrases and expressions, easy grammatical structures in speaking and writing. If you know how to introduce yourself, answer easy questions, and also ask them, you can briefly express yourself on any issue, are able to understand the basic texts and grasp the meaning of simple conversations in audio and video format, the international KET exam will help you assess your knowledge on professional level, will point you to your strengths and weaknesses in learning English, which means that you can purposefully prepare for the exams one step higher.
KET is the first of the General English block of exams that assesses knowledge of General Universal English. The exam confirms knowledge of English at a basic level (level A2 Council of Europe scale) and contains 3 parts:
- « Reading and Writing"(1 hour 10 minutes, read information from newspapers or magazines in English, and complete several types of tasks based on it),
- « Listening"(30 minutes, listen to announcements and monologues in the form of audio recordings at a slow pace, and answer a certain number of questions),
- « Speaking"(8-10 minutes, conversation in a pair (with a partner) with two examiners, one of whom communicates with you, and the other assesses your abilities).
Completed tasks checked by specialists Cambridge ESOL, which assess your knowledge by the sum of points for all tests (1st stage - 50%, 2nd and 3rd - 25% each). In a couple of months you will be able to find out if you passed this exam (70% -84%), whether you achieved success in it (85% -100%), or coped with the task, but not very well, so you get a level certificate A1, which means that you can take part in a simple dialogue in English on a predictable topic, are able to write a simple questionnaire or a note indicating the time, date and place, but this is not enough for the international KET exam. Well, if your percentage of points received is 0% -44% of correct information, then you have failed the exam.
This exam assumes Availability basic knowledge... Using the language in study, work or just travel, you will inevitably face the need to deepen the material that you know, and, therefore, you will be able to take international exams in English at a higher level.
There are 5 total international exams in this series: KET, PET, FCE, CAE, CPE. The upper limit is the CPE exam, which is taken by those who speak English almost like a native speaker. Accordingly, the international KET exam is the first step in improving your knowledge.
Certificate The international KET exam, like the other exams in this unit, is valid for a lifetime, which means that you do not have to take this exam again to confirm your knowledge. The only question is, will you be satisfied with your victory at this stage of language proficiency, or will you strive all to new heights, reinforcing your knowledge with more and more difficult and serious exams?
Basic knowledge English language required for the international KET exam will not remain unclaimed you. After all, from now on you will be able to communicate with native speakers, for example, while traveling abroad. You will learn to understand easy information presented by the English language, and not by your native language, which will add to you advantages over those who do not learn this language. Needless to say, employers of some organizations recognize the KET international exam certificate as a basic qualification in the field of English language learning.
Every year international KET exam strive to pass about 40,000 people from 60 countries of the world. To become one of them, you just need to register at the British Council training center that accepts this exam, pay the cost of the exam (6700 rubles in Russia and 2350 UAH in Ukraine), and pass all types of tests at the appointed time.
PET - Preliminary English Test
This is the second exam in the Cambridge General English series, which confirms the intermediate level of proficiency in English; designed for those who want to discover opportunities to study, work and travel. The exam confirms knowledge of English at an intermediate level (level B1 Council of Europe scales). PET certification is recognized by many companies in the tourism, hospitality, administrative fields, as well as by most educational institutions as proof of intermediate English proficiency.
Upon delivery PET you can assess your strengths and weaknesses and understand what you should pay more attention to later when improving English. PET certification will give you confidence in your abilities and make preparation for the higher level exams much easier. It also confirms your fluency in English in your everyday life.
Cambridge certificates are unlimited and do not require retaking over time.
Like KET, the exam contains 3 parts - “ Reading and Writing"(90 minutes, be able to write sentences, be able to read and understand the main idea of articles from magazines)," Listening"(35 minutes, understand spoken language from various sources and the attitude of people to what they say, their emotions and mood)," Speaking"(10-12 minutes, talking with the examiner and paired with another student, be able to ask and answer questions). Due to the fact that this part of the "Speaking" test is taken together with another candidate, the exam becomes as close as possible to real life situations.
It is assumed that at this level candidate is capable understand factual information and express opinions, attitudes and moods in English both orally and in writing. The certificate confirms the ability to communicate on everyday topics with a native speaker.
In 2009, the PET for schools special exam was introduced. This exam is absolutely identical to regular PET with the only difference that the topics covered in the exam materials relate to school and school life, which makes it more convenient for candidates under 15 years of age to take the exam.
For successful delivery the exam, the candidate must be able to:
- Express yourself simply and coherently;
- Feel free in most situations while traveling;
- Understand the essence of the conversation, as well as be able to express personal interests and communicate on familiar topics such as work, school, home, etc.;
- Share your experiences and experiences, and describe your dreams, hopes, and goals.
Result The PET exam is the arithmetic mean of the sum of the scores for all three parts. The score for reading and writing is 50% of the total points, listening and speaking - 25% each.
Grades and corresponding scores:
Pass with Distinction: 160 - 170;
Pass with Merit: 153 - 159;
Pass: 140 - 152;
Level A2: 120 - 139.
"Pass with Distinction", "Pass with Merit" and "Pass" means that the exam has been passed and the desired level has been confirmed. It is important to note that the Pass with Distinction score is a confirmation of the next level B2 (FCE exam), and the "Level A2" score is the previous level (KET exam). If the candidate does not score enough points up to the A2 level, then the exam is considered not passed, and the certificate is not issued.
FCE - First Certificate in English
This is not just one of the list of Cambridge exams, but the first Cambridge certificate. The exam is designed and administered by the ESOL Division of the University of Cambridge Examination Council (UCLES). As with the KET and PET exams, the FCE certificate is valid throughout life. But this is far from the last advantage of the exam.
The FCE exam can be taken by those who speak English sufficiently to be able to use it in everyday life, including at work and in school.
To pass the exam successfully, you need to have a large vocabulary, be able to conduct a conversation and use the necessary communication strategies in a variety of life situations. If you are fluent in everyday situations, read correspondence in English, conduct telephone conversations, use language skills in various fields of activity, then you should try to pass this exam.
FCE Test equates to level Upper-Intermediate(or B2 on the international scale CEFR). With the FCE certificate, you have the opportunity to study or work abroad. If you are a high school student, passing the FCE Test will provide you with the highest final English grades for grades 10 and 11 - this will be confirmed by letter from the Ministry of Education.
Exam lasts 5 hours and divided for 2 days... During the exam, the level of all your language skills is checked, therefore the test is divided into whole 5 parts(they are called "Papers"): reading (1 hour, 30 questions in 3 texts), letter (1 hour 20 minutes, write an essay, then an article or letter, email, review or report), use of language(45 minutes, grammar and vocabulary, insert words into the text), listening (40 minutes), speaking (15 minutes). Reading, writing and listening are tested in the same way as other Cambridge exams. Your oral language proficiency will be assessed based on how well you can handle the discussion.
All examiners are Cambridge ESOL accredited.
Those who successfully pass this exam receive a certificate from the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations. This certificate is highly regarded by universities and companies in many countries. Everyone who passed the test receives a document on the exam results, which indicates what level of language proficiency was demonstrated at each stage of the exam.
Each year, FCE is taken by more than 270 thousand people in over 100 countries. FCE is an important qualification indicator for any person who wants to work or study abroad, or achieve professionalism in a field where knowledge of the language is required - this can be both business and medicine, engineering and many other fields of activity. In addition, the FCE can be an important milestone in preparation for higher-level exams such as Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) and Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE).
Why take the FCE? FCE is considered by many universities and other educational institutions to be an indicator of intermediate English proficiency. In such educational institutions, passing the FCE is one of the conditions for admission to them. Since many life situations are played out during testing, the FCE certificate is important for anyone who wants to work or study abroad or communicate with foreign partners. FCE is recognized by companies around the world. It means the ability to work with English-language documentation, use English in management, as well as in any field, for example, in tourism, where it is required to maintain contact with English-speaking colleagues.
Knowledge of the language at the FCE level allows you to conduct business correspondence and telephone conversations, participate in trainings, read simple books and articles. The areas of application for the FCE certificate are many and varied.
CAE - Certificate in advanced English
The exam is required for those who have to work or study in an environment with high requirements for knowledge of the English language. Similar to FCE, test CAE consists of 5 parts. It can be completed in both written and electronic form.
Obtaining this certificate characterizes you as a fairly confident "user", and, as the name suggests, confirms that you have mastered the Advanced level ( C1). If you can easily read any literature, write competently and in different styles, communicate freely on any topic and understand fluent native speakers, then you should give it a try. A successfully passed StrAU is credited for admission to many universities, even such prestigious ones as Oxford, Cambridge and California Institute of Technology.
Each of the 5 chapters is longer than the FCE: Reading (1 hour 15 minutes), Writing (1 hour 30 minutes), Using English (1 hour), Listening (40 minutes), and Speaking English (15 minutes).
This exam is graded in letters, each with a different range. The total score consists of the sum of the results of each part of the exam.
A: 80-100
B: 75-79
C: 60-74
CEFR Level B2: 45-49
Fail: 0-44
The certificate is valid for an unlimited period.
CPE - Certificate of Proficiency in English
Also known as the Certificate of Proficiency in English, the exam is a qualification that certifies that you have achieved an exceptionally high level of proficiency in English. This is the last in the block of the Cambridge exams, confirming proficiency in English at the highest level - on a par with a native speaker (Proficiency, or C2). Is an the oldest from the Cambridge language exams. It was first introduced in 1913.
The English language certificate enables work in any field, get the first higher education, study postgraduate or master's programs in any English-speaking country, because it is accepted by more than 20,000 commercial and government institutions and organizations around the world.
Like the rest of the Cambridge certifications, the CPE has no expiration date. It is accepted by most European universities and other educational institutions abroad. In many English-speaking countries, this certificate will not require you to take qualification tests for employment or higher education.
Also CPE is considered one of the key tests for teachers, it significantly increases the competitiveness of the teacher, both in the domestic market and abroad.
Consists of 5 parts - Reading, Writing, Use of English, Listening, Speaking.
The specifics of the assessment are such that even if one of the blocks was submitted poorly, then you have every chance of getting a CAE certificate.
BEC - Business English Certificate
Cambridge University exam designed for proficiency certification business English.
The BEC tests a candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a business environment, but does not require any specialized knowledge.
The BEC is for students who need specialized knowledge
English to pursue a business career internationally
level. The exam tests four aspects of language proficiency: listening, reading, speaking and writing. This test uses exercises that are based on daily business life to test the candidate's ability to use various linguistic functions and structures in a business context.
There are 3 options for the BEC exam:
- BEC Preliminary(designed for candidates who know business vocabulary
English at the level Intermediate); - BEC Vantage(designed for students who know Business English at the Upper-Intermediate);
- BEC Higher(intended for candidates who have completed training in the Business English course at the level Advanced).
BEC Preliminary... Upon successful passing of the exam, certificates of three levels are issued: passed (Pass), passed with honors (Pass with Merit) and passed with special distinction (Pass with Distinction), depending on the overall assessment according to the test results. All candidates will also receive an exam report, which includes a score for each part of the exam in accordance with the Cambridge Language Level Scale, an overall exam score on the Cambridge Language Level Scale, an overall score for the entire exam, and a score on the Council of Europe Scale.
BEC Vantage... Upon successful passing of the exam, certificates of the English language of three levels are issued: A, B and C - depending on the overall assessment according to the test results. Candidates who have scored from 140 to 159 points are issued a level certificate B1
BEC Higher... Upon successful passing of the exam, certificates of the English language of three levels are issued: A, B and C - depending on the overall assessment according to the test results. Candidates who have scored from 160 to 179 points are issued a level certificate B2... All candidates receive an exam report that includes a score for each part of the exam in accordance with the Cambridge Language Level Scale, an overall exam score on the Cambridge Language Level Scale, an overall score for the entire exam, and a score on the Council of Europe Scale.
YLE - Young Learners English Tests
It is the only English proficiency test in the world for children aged 7 to 12. The exam consists of 3 levels: "Starters", "Movers" and "Flyers", the last of which roughly corresponds to the KET exam in terms of difficulty.
- Yle starters- for children whose knowledge in English corresponds to the Beginner level;
- Yle movers- for those who have already reached the Elementary level;
- Yle flyers- for those who can already enter into dialogues in English and have a vocabulary at the Pre-Intermediate level.
Examiners in a playful and relaxed manner check the mastery of the main types of language activities, which motivates the child to further study and helps to understand that exams are not scary.
Despite the innate human fear of various exams, tests and tests, this series was created in order to demonstrate to children how easy it is to take exams. If you think that your child already has enough stressful situations at school, do not worry about this exam: absolutely all children receive an English certificate. No matter how many points your child scored, he will still become the proud owner of the first Cambridge certificate in his life.
How is the exam? YLE is taken in 2 stages and consists of a written procedure (reading, listening, writing) and an interview with an examiner. The exam is adapted to the peculiarities of child psychology, passing the exam forms only a positive perception of the test as a tool for checking knowledge. Thanks to this exam, the child will become familiar with the format of international tests at an early age. A comfortable environment for the exam is provided by the YLE format itself.
What does the certificate give? If you are wondering whether it is possible to enter one of the foreign schools with an exam certificate, the answer is unequivocal - no. The exam is intended for other purposes. Among them:
- the child receives the first document of the international level;
- early acquaintance with international requirements for passing exams;
- a positive assessment of their own knowledge;
- increasing the child's motivation in the field of learning English knowledge testing by experts from a world-renowned university.
How to prepare for an international exam
In fact, there are many methods of preparation and you can independently choose the one that will be most convenient for you. We recommend taking a free online test to find out which exam is best for you.
EnglishDom is a great option, because with us you can not only tighten up weak points without leaving your home, but also do it as efficiently as possible. With the help of our teachers, you can ask questions about your concerns in English and reinforce material that you left unexplored.
Keep your eye on webinars and online courses. They are designed in such a way
so that you can learn on your own without difficulty.
You can also hire a tutor. You will come to his office or home and individually study with him on topics in which you are weakest. This is convenient for the simple reason that there are different types of examinations in English and it is worth choosing a preparation method based on this. If this is children's learning, then you can freely prepare yourself.
Conclusion
Pick what you will! If you type any of the names of international exams in the search, you can download a lot of materials for self-development: specialized textbooks, trial assignments and just useful tips. However, Skype classes at our EnglishDom school with a qualified teacher will greatly enhance the effectiveness of your preparation. Have no doubts!
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