What are International Exams?

International English language proficiency exams are taken all over the world with the intention of evaluating the proficiency of learners in English language. They are taken all over the world and the certificates are accepted in every university and official workplace. The audience of these exams are usually international students or anyone who wishes to move to a foreign country and is in need of providing proof for his or her mastery of English. Anyone who intends to apply for a university abroad his native country is required to present the university with his or her certificate of one of these exams taken. These exams include: YLE, KET, PET, IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo Exam, etc. In this section, 5+2 institution provides various preparatory courses for these exams. These courses are taught by educators who specialize in the corresponding exams. In short, all the skills and techniques a given learner needs in order to excel in these exams are discussed and studied in these courses in the most time-efficient way possible. Here is the list of the courses provided:

A. YLE Starters Test

Also known as “Pre-A1 Starters” is the very first test available for children. Everyday written and spoken language are tested in YLE which serves as a great way to boost the young learner's confidence. The subject matter consists of familiar topics and the test emphasizes communicative skills based mainly on the general four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. This paper-based exam takes about 45 minutes to take. The young learners who take this exam are expected to have Pre-level A1 proficiency in English. It’s important to mention that there’s no pass or fail in regard to this exam in order to encourage young learners to carry on their learning journey. In other words, every child receives a Cambridge English certificate upon completion. This qualification shows that the learner can do the following items:

  • Understand basic English content on the internet
  • Enjoy books, songs, TV programs, and films in English
  • Make friends globally.

B. KET Test

Also known as “Cambridge English: Key”, KET is an exam that proves you are capable of handling English in simple situations. In other words, it indicates that you have the basic language skills you need to communicate well in English. This exam evaluates the general four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. This qualification is accepted all around the globe. It is available in paper-based form and computer-based form. It takes about 2 hours to take. The learners who take this exam are expected to have A2 proficiency in English. The score range in this test is from 120 to 139. This qualification shows that the learner can do the following items:

  • Read and understand simple textbooks and articles in English 
  • Write letters and emails on everyday subjects
  • Take meeting notes 
  • Demonstrate awareness of opinions and recognize mood in spoken and written English.

C. PET Test

Also known as “Cambridge English: Preliminary”, PET is an exam that proves you have mastered the basics of the English language. Meaning that you have the practical language skills needed to operate well in everyday life. This exam evaluates the general four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. This qualification is accepted all around the globe. It is available in paper-based form and computer-based form. It takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes to take. Normally the learners who take this exam are expected to have B1 proficiency in English. The score range in this test is from 140 to 159. This qualification shows that the learner can do the following items:

  • Understand and use basic phrases and expressions
  • Understand simple written English
  • Introduce themselves well and answer basic questions about themselves
  • Have meaningful interactions with English Native speakers at a basic level.

D. The IELTS Exam

IELTS stands for ‘International English Language Testing System’. As the name itself suggests, this exam is often required from immigrants or international students by educational institutions, employers, professional registration bodies and government immigration agencies in general. In a nutshell this exam is usually take for studying or working abroad. By far IELTS is the most commonly taken international exam. Over 3.5 million test are taken per year. The four major skills of reading, listening, speaking, and writing are evaluated. The score ranges from 1 to 9. This exam is available in both paper-based form and computer-based form. It takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes to take the exam.

E. TKT (Teacher Knowledge Test)

TKT or Teacher Knowledge Test consists of a series of modular teaching certificates which evaluates the educator’s knowledge in particular fields of teaching. It is a cost-effective qualification in retrospect for educators who wish to teach internationally. In short, it’s the perfect qualification for experience and new educators alike. The test consists of a series of multiple-choice questions. There are a total of 5 modules in TKT.

Core modules:

  • Module 1: Background to language learning and teaching
  • Module 2: Lesson planning and use of resources for language teaching
  • Module 3: Managing the teaching and learning process

Specialist modules:

  • TKT: CLIL Content and Language Integrated Learning
  • TKT: YL (Young Learners)

The educator who wishes to take TKT is required to have at least a B1 level of proficiency. You can sign up for TKT up to six weeks before the test session.