Guide to the Major ESL and Academic Tests and Examinations
1. Categories of ESL Tests
2. Comparing ESL Tests
3. Test and Examination Centers in Hong Kong
4. General English Tests
About Cambridge ESOL Main Suite
Cambridge ESOL Online Materials
5. Academic Tests
About IELTS
IELTS Online Materials
About TOEFL iBT
TOEFL iBT Online Materials
6. Business ESL Tests
About Cambridge BEC
BEC Online Materials
About Cambridge BULATS
BULATS Online Materials
About TOEIC
TOEIC Online Materials
7. University Entrance Tests
About SAT
SAT Online Materials
About GMAT
GMAT Online Materials
1
1. Categories of ESL Tests
There are many tests available for ESL students to choose from. We have categorized the major tests
under the following headings: (click to go directly to information)
General
Cambridge ESOL
KET PET FCE CAE CPE
Academic
IELTS
TOEFL iBT
Business
Cambridge BEC
Preliminary Vantage Higher
Cambridge BULATS
TOEIC
University Entrance
SAT
GMAT
2
2. Comparing ESL Tests
You may be wondering how the different language tests compare to each other? If you‘ve achieved
IELTS Level 5 what sort of TOEFL score can you expect? Every ESL test is a little bit different so they
are most usefully compared using the guidelines established by the Association of Language Testers
in Europe (ALTE) and the Council of Europe's Common European Framework of Reference (CEF).
The CEF and ALTE determine language levels by identifying what learners are able to do at every step
of learning. They do this using a series of ‗can do‘ statements (Table 1). Using this framework, it is
possible to compare ESL tests according to those levels (Table 2).
Both ALTE and the CEF divide language learners into six levels:
Mastery ~ CEF C2 / ALTE 5
Effective Operational Efficiency ~ CEF C1 / ALTE 4
Vantage ~ CEF B2 / ALTE 3
Threshold ~ CEF B1 / ALTE 2
Waystage ~ CEF A2 / ALTE 1
Breakthrough ~ CEF A1 / ALTE 0
Table 1 – CEF / ALTE levels
Listening / Speaking Reading Writing
CAN advise on or talk about CAN understand documents, CAN write letters on any subject
complex or sensitive issues, correspondence and reports, and full notes of meetings or
understanding colloquial including the finer points of seminars with good expression
references and dealing complex texts. and accuracy.
confidently with hostile
questions.
CAN contribute effectively to CAN read quickly enough to CAN prepare/draft professional
meetings and seminars within cope with an academic course, correspondence, take reasonably
own area of work or keep up a to read the media for accurate notes in meetings or
casual conversation with a good information or to understand write an essay which shows an
degree of fluency, coping with non-standard correspondence. ability to communicate.
abstract expressions.
CAN follow or give a talk on a CAN scan texts for relevant CAN make notes while someone
familiar topic or keep up a information, and understand is talking or write a letter
conversation on a fairly wide detailed instructions or advice. including non-standard requests.
range of topics.
CAN express opinions on CAN understand routine CAN write letters or make notes
abstract/cultural matters in a information and articles, and on familiar or predictable
limited way or offer advice the general meaning of non- matters.
within a known area, and routine information within a
understand instructions or familiar area.
public announcements.
CAN express simple opinions or CAN understand straightforward CAN complete forms and write
requirements in a familiar information within a known short simple letters or postcards
context. area, such as on products and related to personal information.
signs and simple textbooks or
reports on familiar matters.
3
CAN understand basic CAN understand basic notices, CAN complete basic forms, and
instructions or take part in a instructions or information. write notes including times,
basic factual conversation on a dates and places.
predictable topic.
From: http://formacion-empresas.ihes.com/eng/levels2.html
Table 2 – Comparison of ESL tests and CEF / ALTE levels
ALTE 0 ALTE 1 ALTE 2 ALTE 3 ALTE 4 ALTE 5
A1 A2 B1 B2 C1 C2
Breakthrough Waystage Threshold Vantage Proficient Mastery
IELTS 1–2 3 3.5 – 4.5 5–6 6.5 – 7 7.5 - 9
TOEFL iBT 96-125 126-175 176-235 236-275 276+
Cambridge KET PET FCE CAE CPE
ESOL
BULATS Preliminary Vantage Higher
BEC Higher
TOEIC 246-380 381-540 541-700 701-910 911-990
Please note: This is a general guide only.
3. Test and Examination Centers in Hong Kong
British Council Hong Kong
KET, PET, FCE, CAE, CPE, BEC Preliminary, BEC Vantage, BEC Higher, IELTS
Test and registration information: http://www.britishcouncil.org/hongkong Click on ‗Exams‘
Center for Professional and Business English
BEC Preliminary, BEC Vantage, BEC Higher
Test and registration information: http://www.polyu.edu.hk/cpbe
TOEFL iBT
Register for the TOEFL iBT online at http://www.ets.org/toefl
Hong Kong is in Regional Registration Center (RRC) 6.
4
CEPAS Management Unit
IELTS
Test and registration information: http://www.ugccepa.com/0607/index.asp
ETS Test Center ~ Region 6
TOEFL
To Register:
Region 6 – ASIA - Call: 60-3-7628-3333 (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
HONG KONG is Test Center Number: 8591
IDP Education Australia Hong Kong
IELTS, GMAT, TOEFL CBT
Center and registration information: http://www.idp.com/hongkong/testcenter/article20.asp
4. General English Tests:
About Cambridge ESOL: Main Suite
Cambridge ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) is the part of the University of Cambridge
that provides qualifications for learners of English. The tests are well known for their high quality
assessment of real English, as used in everyday work, study and leisure situations.
Cambridge ESOL certificates are recognised by thousands of educational organisations and employers
throughout the world for study and work purposes. The tests are well known for their high quality
assessment of real English, as used in everyday work, study and leisure situations by students around
the world.
Cambridge ESOL consists of a series of five tests, from beginner to advanced:
Level 1 ~ KET (Key English Test)
Contains reading, writing, listening & speaking components
Two pass grades: ‗Pass with Merit‘ and ‗Pass‘
Level 2 ~ PET (Preliminary English Test)
Contains reading, writing, listening & speaking components
Two pass grades: ‗Pass with Merit‘ and ‗Pass‘
Recognized by some employers and universities
Level 3 ~ FCE (First Certificate in English)
Contains five sections: reading, writing, listening, speaking, & use of English
Widely recognized by employers and universities
Five grades: (A to E). A to C required for a Pass
Level 4 ~ CAE (Certificate in Advanced English)
5
Shows students are capable of following a university course and/or can function in a range of
business contexts
Five grades: (A to E). A to C required for a Pass
Level 5 ~ CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English)
Shows students have the ability to function effectively in almost every English speaking
context.
A requirement for non-native speakers who wish to train as English teachers
It usually takes three years of study after attaining an FCE to reach this level.
Five grades: (A to E). A to C required for a Pass
About Cambridge KET
KET is the first level Cambridge ESOL test, at level A2 of the Council of Europe's Common European
Framework of Reference for Languages.. KET recognises the ability to cope with everyday written and
spoken communications at a basic level.
Do you have basic English skills? Can you understand simple texts? Can you communicate in familiar
situations? Can you understand short notices and simple spoken directions? If so, then KET is the test
for you.
KET uses language from real life situations and covers the four language skills - reading, writing,
listening and speaking. It provides an assessment of practical skills, and encourages the development
of abilities which can be used while travelling, as well as in study and working situations.
KET has three papers:
Reading & Writing
Listening
Speaking
Each paper is returned to Cambridge for marking and assessment, except the Speaking Test, which is
conducted by two locally based examiners who examine candidates face to face. All examiners are
accredited by Cambridge ESOL.
Reading and Writing (Paper 1), 1 hour 10 minutes
The Reading and Writing paper assesses your ability to read and understand factual texts from signs,
brochures, newspapers and magazines. You need to be able to understand the main messages, and
have ways of dealing with unfamiliar words and structures.
You are assessed on your ability to complete gaps in simple texts, transfer information to forms, and
complete an everyday writing task, such as writing a short note or message of around 20-25 words, to
show you can use structure, vocabulary, spelling and punctuation.
Listening (Paper 2), 30 minutes (approx.)
The Listening paper assesses your ability to understand recorded material such as announcements
and monologues, delivered at a moderate pace, and to understand factual information in the
recordings.
6
Speaking (Paper 3), 8-10 minutes
The Speaking Test assesses your ability to interact in conversational English with an examiner and
with another candidate. You need to be able to answer and ask questions about yourself and to talk
freely about your likes and dislikes. You normally take the Speaking Test in pairs.
Cambridge KET - Online Materials
Details Location
Title: KET - University of Cambridge EOSL http://www.cambridgeesol.org/exams/ket.ht
Examinations m
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web http://www.cambridgeesol.org/support/dload
Accent: N/A s/ket_downloads.htm
Features: This is the official test web site for
Cambridge EFL tests, including KET, PET, FCE,
CAE & CPE. It provides a variety of information
about the different test levels. Click on ‘Support’
from the menu bar at the top to access a number of
free downloads to help you prepare for the tests. On
the left you’ll see a box entitled ‘Site Pathways’.
Click on ‘For Language Learners’ to find out more
about the individual tests, what skills they cover and
how to prepare for them.
The second URL takes you to a number of
downloadable PDF files to help you study. Included
are sample papers and answer keys.
Title: KET - Longman.com Exams Resource Library http://www.longman.com/exams/cae-
Units/pgs: - cpe/cae/students-activities.html
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: On this Longman ELT website, there are
lots of ideas and free resources for English language
exams. Try fun online activities, download free
support materials and get helpful tips on studying for
KET simply clicking on the KET ‘star’ button. You’ll
be directed to a page that contains a description of the
exam and student resources such as study tips and
interactive exercises and quizzes.
Title: KET - English-online.org – EFL Exam http://www.english-online.org.uk/exam.htm
Practice
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: You’ll find plenty of exam advice and
practice exercises at this site. Click on ‘KET’ and
you’ll be given a description of the exam. From the
menu bar at the top you can access information on
the different skills that each exam focuses on. Click
on ‘Introduction’ to find out more about that part of
the exam. Then click on the different ‘Parts’ to see
7
examples of questions, answers, and examiners
comments.
Title: KET - About.com – ESL Exams http://esl.about.com/sitesearch.htm?terms=E
Units/pgs: - SL%20exams&SUName=esl&TopNode=32
Type: Web 27&type=1
Accent: N/A
Features: This section of the popular About.com http://esl.about.com/od/toeflieltscambridge/
web site includes information and free practice test TOEFL_IELTS_Cambridge_Examination_P
exercises for the Cambridge KET. reparation.htm
The 2nd URL listed opposite is a large portal where
you’ll find over 160 web pages of recommended sites
related to a wide variety of ESL exams including the
KET.
About Cambridge PET
PET is the second level Cambridge ESOL test. It is an intermediate level test, at Level B1 of the
Council of Europe's Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. If you can deal with
everyday written and spoken communications (e.g. read simple textbooks and articles, write simple
personal letters, make notes during a meeting), then this is the test for you.
PET is a valuable qualification if you want to work or study abroad or to develop a career in
international business. It is also useful preparation for higher level tests, such as FCE (First Certificate
in English), CAE (Certificate in Advanced English) and CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English).
Studying for PET is a popular way to improve your language skills and use them in a wide range of
contexts. PET covers the four main language skills - reading, writing, listening and speaking, using
material from real life situations. It provides evidence of practical skills, and indicates sufficient ability to
be of practical use in clerical, secretarial and managerial jobs, and in many industries, such as tourism,
where contact with English speakers is required.
PET has three papers:
Reading and Writing
Listening
Speaking
Each paper is returned to Cambridge for marking and assessment, except the Speaking Test, which is
conducted by two locally based examiners who examine candidates face to face. All examiners are
accredited by Cambridge ESOL.
Reading and Writing (Paper 1), 1 hour 30 minutes
The Reading and Writing paper assesses your ability to read and understand texts taken from signs,
brochures, newspapers and magazines. You should be able to understand the main messages and the
effect they may have on a reader, and be able to deal with words and structures you do not know.
The Writing component includes a sentence transformation task, a short communicative message
addressing three points, and in Part 3 you have the choice of either an informal letter or a story. In Part
3 you must write approximately 100 words, demonstrating both ambition and control of structure,
vocabulary, spelling and punctuation.
Listening (Paper 2), 35 minutes (approx.)
8
The Listening paper assesses your ability to understand recorded material such as public
announcements and dialogues. You should be able to understand the factual information in the
recordings, and assess the attitudes and intentions of the speakers.
Speaking (Paper 3), 10-12 minutes
The Speaking Test assesses your ability to interact in conversational English with an examiner and
with another candidate. You need to be able to answer and ask questions about yourself and to talk
freely about what you like and do not like.
Cambridge PET – Online Materials
Details Location
Title: PET - University of Cambridge EOSL http://www.cambridgeesol.org/
Examinations
Units/pgs: - http://www.cambridgeesol.org/support/dload
Type: Web s/pet_downloads.htm
Accent: N/A
Features: This is the official exam web site for
Cambridge EFL exams, including KET, PET, FCE,
CAE & CPE. It provides a variety of information
about the different exam levels. Click on ‘Support’
from the menu bar at the top to access a number of
free downloads to help you prepare for the exams. On
the left you’ll see a box entitled ‘Site Pathways’.
Click on ‘For Language Learners’ to find out more
about the individual exams, what skills they cover
and how to prepare for them.
The second URL takes you to a number of
downloadable PDF files to help you study. Included
are sample papers and answer keys.
Title: PET - Longman.com Exams Resource Library http://www.longman.com/exams/cae-
Units/pgs: - cpe/cae/students-activities.html
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: On this Longman ELT website, there are
lots of ideas and free resources for English language
exams. Try fun online activities, download free
support materials and get helpful tips on studying for
PET simply clicking on the PET ‘star’ button. You’ll
be directed to a page that contains a description of the
exam and student resources such as study tips and
interactive exercises and quizzes.
Title: PET - English-online.org – EFL Exam Practice http://www.english-online.org.uk/exam.htm
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: You’ll find plenty of exam advice and
practice exercises at this site. Click on KET and
you’ll be given a description of the exam. From the
menu bar at the top you can access information on
9
the different skills that each exam focuses on. Click
on ‘Introduction’ to find out more about that part of
the exam. Then click on the different ‘Parts’ to see
examples of questions, answers, and examiners
comments.
Title: PET - About.com – ESL Exams http://esl.about.com/sitesearch.htm?terms=E
Units/pgs: - SL%20exams&SUName=esl&TopNode=32
Type: Web 27&type=1
Accent: N/A
Features: This section of the popular About.com http://esl.about.com/od/toeflieltscambridge/
web site includes information and free practice test TOEFL_IELTS_Cambridge_Examination_P
exercises for the Cambridge PET. reparation.htm
The 2nd URL listed opposite is a large portal where
you’ll find over 160 web pages of recommended sites
related to a wide variety of ESL exams including the
PET.
About Cambridge FCE
FCE is an intermediate level Cambridge ESOL test, at level B2 of the Council of Europe's Common
European Framework of Reference for Languages. Choose FCE if your knowledge of English is
adequate for many practical everyday purposes, including business and study.
To be successful, you will have a wide grasp of vocabulary, and be able to construct an argument and
use appropriate communication styles for a variety of situations. You also need to show awareness of
register and of the conventions of politeness and degrees of formality as they are expressed through
language.
FCE is ideal if you want to work or study abroad or to develop a career which requires language skills
(e.g. business, medicine, and engineering). FCE indicates sufficient proficiency in English to be of
practical use in clerical, secretarial and managerial jobs in many industries, in particular tourism, where
contact with English speakers is required. Successful candidates have the ability to deal with routine
letters and telephone enquiries, and to cope with some non-academic training courses and simple
textbooks and articles.
FCE has five papers:
Reading
Writing
Use of English
Listening
Speaking
Each of the written papers is returned to Cambridge for marking and assessment. The Speaking Test
is conducted by two locally based examiners who examine you face to face. All examiners are
accredited by Cambridge ESOL.
Reading (Paper 1), 1 hour 15 minutes
This paper assesses your ability to read and understand texts taken from fiction and non-fiction books,
journals, newspapers and magazines. You are expected to be able to show understanding of gist,
detail and text structure, and deduce meaning.
10
Writing (Paper 2), 1 hour 30 minutes
This paper assesses your ability to write non-specialised text types such as letters, articles, reports,
compositions and reviews of 120-180 words covering a range of topics and target readers and also set
texts.
Use of English (Paper 3), 1 hour 15 minutes
This paper requires you to demonstrate your knowledge and control of the language system by
completing various tasks at text and sentence level. These include filling gaps, transforming words and
phrases, and identifying errors in texts.
Listening (Paper 4), 40 minutes (approx.)
This paper assesses your ability to understand the meaning of spoken English, and to extract gist and
meaning from spoken text. The texts are taken from a variety of text types including interviews,
discussions, lectures and conversations.
Speaking (Paper 5), 14 minutes
The Speaking Test assesses your ability to interact in conversational English in a range of contexts. It
contains four parts, including an interview section, individual long turns of about one minute, a
collaborative task and a discussion. You are provided with stimulus material such as photographs and
drawings. You will normally take the Speaking Test in pairs.
Cambridge FCE – Online Materials
Details Location
Title: FCE - University of Cambridge EOSL http://www.cambridgeesol.org/
Examinations
Units/pgs: - http://www.cambridgeesol.org/support/dload
Type: Web s/fce_downloads.htm
Accent: N/A
Features: This is the official exam web site for
Cambridge EFL exams, including KET, PET, FCE,
CAE & CPE. It provides a variety of information
about the different exam levels. Click on ‘Support’
from the menu bar at the top to access a number of
free downloads to help you prepare for the exams. On
the left you’ll see a box entitled ‘Site Pathways’.
Click on ‘For Language Learners’ to find out more
about the individual exams, what skills they cover
and how to prepare for them.
The second URL takes you to a number of
downloadable PDF files to help you study. Included
are sample papers and answer keys.
Title: FCE - Flo-Joe http://www.flo-joe.co.uk/
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: Flo-Joe was set up in April 2000 by a
small team of Cambridge exam teachers and course
11
book authors. Their aim is to help people who are
working towards the Cambridge FCE, CAE and CPE
exams. This site is updated regularly and provides
free grammar, vocabulary and test material. There is
also a discussion forum for teachers and students and
you can subscribe to a regular e-newsletter.
Title: FCE - Longman.com Exams Resource Library http://www.longman.com/exams/cae-
Units/pgs: - cpe/cae/students-activities.html
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: On this Longman ELT website, there are
lots of ideas and free resources for English language
exams. Try fun online activities, download free
support materials and get helpful tips on studying for
FCE simply clicking on the FCE ‘star’ button. You’ll
be directed to a page that contains a description of the
exam and student resources such as study tips and
interactive exercises and quizzes.
Title: FCE - English-online.org – EFL Exam Practice http://www.english-online.org.uk/exam.htm
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: You’ll find plenty of exam advice and
practice exercises at this site. Click on ‘FCE’ and
you’ll be given a description of the exam. From the
menu bar at the top you can access information on
the different skills that each exam focuses on. Click
on ‘Introduction’ to find out more about that part of
the exam. Then click on the different ‘Parts’ to see
examples of questions, answers, and examiners
comments.
Title: FCE - SelfAccess.com – Free Sample Lessons http://www.selfaccess.com/
and Exercises
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: This site offers two types of online ESL
lessons for a monthly or annual subscription. You can
also sign up for a three day free trial of all the
material on the site. To try a quick sample, go to the
top of the menu bar on the left, click on ‘Free Sample
Lessons and Exercises’ to access a selection of
activities from different levels and different skill
areas.
The Academic English lessons are longer than the
General English lessons and are perfect for
intermediate-level and above students who need to
prepare for English tests like the FCE. All the lessons
and exercises are based on topical Reuters’ news
articles and current events. The Academic English
exercises contain the types of questions and tasks
used in ESL tests such as the FCE test.
Title: FCE - About.com – ESL Exams http://esl.about.com/sitesearch.htm?terms=E
12
Units/pgs: - SL%20exams&SUName=esl&TopNode=32
Type: Web 27&type=1
Accent: N/A
Features: This section of the popular About.com http://esl.about.com/od/toeflieltscambridge/
web site includes information and free practice test TOEFL_IELTS_Cambridge_Examination_P
exercises for the Cambridge FCE. reparation.htm
The 2nd URL listed opposite is a large portal where
you’ll find over 160 web pages of recommended sites
related to a wide variety of ESL exams including the
FCE.
Title: FCE - About.com – Free FCE Study on the http://esl.about.com/cs/britishcambridge/a/a_
Internet fce.htm
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: This two-page section of About.com deals
specifically with the Cambridge First Certificate in
English (FCE) test. Scroll through the section on
page two and click on one of the following skill
areas: ‘reading’, ‘use of English’, ‘writing’ or
‘listening’ that you wish to practice. You can also
download a sample test.
About Cambridge CAE
CAE is the second highest level Cambridge ESOL test, at level C1 of the Council of Europe's Common
European Framework of Reference for Languages. Choose CAE if you are reaching a standard of
English that is adequate for most purposes, including social and professional situations, and in higher
education.
Although the level of language skills required is not as high as for CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in
English), CAE recognises the ability to communicate with confidence in English and deal with most
aspects of everyday life.
CAE is ideal if you want to work or study abroad or to develop a career which requires language skills
(e.g. business, medicine, and engineering). It is also useful preparation if you are working towards CPE
(Certificate of Proficiency in English).
Studying for CAE helps you to improve your language skills and use them in a wide range of contexts.
The tests are based on realistic tasks, and indicate the ability to use the language in practical
situations. If you are successful, you'll be able to participate in meetings and discussions, expressing
opinions clearly, and be able to understand and produce texts of various types, including business
letters and reports. You'll also be more than capable of following university courses taught in English.
CAE has five papers:
Reading
Writing
English in use
Listening
Speaking
13
The written papers are returned to Cambridge for marking and assessment. The Speaking Test is
conducted by two locally based examiners who examine candidates face to face. All examiners are
accredited by Cambridge ESOL.
Reading (Paper 1), 1 hour 15 minutes
This paper assesses your ability to read and understand a number of texts taken from books,
newspapers and magazines. You are expected to be able to show understanding of gist, main points,
detail, text structure or specific information, deduce meaning or recognise opinion and attitude.
Writing (Paper 2), 2 hours
This paper assesses your ability to write non-specialised text types such as letters, articles, reports and
reviews for a given purpose and target reader, covering a range of topics. Responses are of about 250
words in length.
English in Use (Paper 3), 1 hour 30 minutes
In this paper, you are expected to demonstrate knowledge and control of the language system by
completing various tasks at text and sentence level, based on authentic texts. This will include gap-
filling, error correction, word formation; register transfer and text completion exercises.
Listening (Paper 4), 45 minutes (approx.)
This paper assesses your ability to understand the meaning of spoken English and to extract detailed
and specific information from the spoken text and to understand speakers' attitudes and opinions. The
texts are taken from a variety of text types including interviews, discussions, lectures and
conversations.
Speaking (Paper 5), 15 minutes
The Speaking Test assesses your ability to interact in conversational English in a range of contexts. It
contains four parts, including an interview section, individual long turns, a collaborative task and a
discussion. You are provided with stimulus materials such as photographs and drawings You will
normally take the Speaking Test in pairs.
Cambridge CAE – Online Materials
Details Location
Title: CAE - University of Cambridge EOSL http://www.cambridgeesol.org/
Examinations
Units/pgs: - http://www.cambridgeesol.org/support/dload
Type: Web s/cae_downloads.htm
Accent: N/A
Features: This is the official exam web site for
Cambridge EFL exams, including KET, PET, FCE,
CAE & CPE. It provides a variety of information
about the different exam levels. Click on ‘Support’
from the menu bar at the top to access a number of
free downloads to help you prepare for the exams. On
the left you’ll see a box entitled ‘Site Pathways’.
Click on ‘For Language Learners’ to find out more
about the individual exams, what skills they cover
and how to prepare for them.
14
The second URL takes you to a number of
downloadable PDF files to help you study. Included
are sample papers and answer keys.
Title: CAE - Flo-Joe http://www.flo-joe.co.uk/
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: Flo-Joe was set up in April 2000 by a
small team of Cambridge exam teachers and course
book authors. Their aim is to help people who are
working towards the Cambridge FCE, CAE and CPE
tests. This site is updated regularly and provides free
grammar, vocabulary and test material. There is also
a discussion forum for teachers and students and you
can subscribe to a regular e-newsletter.
Title: CAE - Longman.com Exams Resource Library http://www.longman.com/exams/cae-
Units/pgs: - cpe/cae/students-activities.html
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: On this Longman ELT website, there are
lots of ideas and free resources for English language
exams. Try fun online activities, download free
support materials and get helpful tips on studying for
CAE simply clicking on the CAE ‘star’ button.
You’ll be directed to a page that contains a
description of the exam and student resources such as
study tips and interactive exercises and quizzes.
Title: CAE - English-online.org – EFL Exam http://www.english-online.org.uk/exam.htm
Practice
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: You’ll find plenty of exam advice and
practice exercises at this site. Click on ‘CAE’ and
you’ll be given a description of the exam. From the
menu bar at the top you can access information on
the different skills that each exam focuses on. Click
on ‘Introduction’ to find out more about that part of
the exam. Then click on the different ‘Parts’ to see
examples of questions, answers, and examiners
comments.
Title: CAE - SelfAccess.com – Free Sample Lessons http://www.selfaccess.com/
and Exercises
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: This site offers two types of online ESL
lessons for a monthly or annual subscription. You can
also sign up for a three day free trial of all the
material on the site. To try a quick sample, go to the
top of the menu bar on the left, click on ‘Free Sample
Lessons and Exercises’ to access a selection of
activities from different levels and different skill
15
areas.
The Academic English lessons are longer than the
General English lessons and are perfect for
intermediate-level and above students who need to
prepare for English tests like the CAE. All the
lessons and exercises are based on topical Reuters’
news articles and current events. The Academic
English exercises contain the types of questions and
tasks used in ESL tests such as the CAE exam.
Title: CAE - About.com – ESL Exams http://esl.about.com/sitesearch.htm?terms=E
Units/pgs: - SL%20exams&SUName=esl&TopNode=32
Type: Web 27&type=1
Accent: N/A
Features: This section of the popular About.com http://esl.about.com/od/toeflieltscambridge/
web site includes information and free practice test TOEFL_IELTS_Cambridge_Examination_P
exercises for the CAE. reparation.htm
The 2nd URL listed opposite is a large portal where
you’ll find over 160 web pages of recommended sites
related to a wide variety of ESL exams including the
Cambridge CAE.
About Cambridge CPE
CPE is the highest level Cambridge ESOL test, at level C2 of the Council of Europe's Common
European Framework of Reference for Languages. If you are able to function effectively in almost any
English-speaking context and are approaching a standard of English similar to that of an educated
native speaker, then this is the test for you.
CPE is ideal if you want to work or study abroad, or to develop a career which requires language skills
(e.g. business, medicine, and engineering). On passing the test, you'll receive a certificate awarded by
University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations. Your CPE certificate is recognised by thousands of
universities and employers throughout the world.
While studying for CPE you will be improving your language skills and learning to use them in a wide
range of contexts. Because many aspects of the tests are based on realistic tasks, a CPE certificate
shows that you have progressed beyond a good knowledge of vocabulary and grammar and can
actually use the language in real contexts.
CPE has five papers:
Reading
Writing
Use of English
Listening
Speaking
The written papers are returned to Cambridge for marking and assessment. The Speaking Test is
conducted by two locally based examiners who examine candidates face-to-face. All examiners are
accredited by Cambridge ESOL.
Reading (Paper 1), 1 hour 30 minutes
16
The Reading paper assesses your ability to read and understand texts taken from a wide range of
sources, including fiction and non-fiction books, journals, newspapers and magazines. You are
expected to understand the meaning of written English at word, phrase, sentence, paragraph and
whole text level. It includes understanding of text content, organisation and structure, and the
development of ideas, opinions and attitudes.
Writing (Paper 2), 2 hours
The Writing paper assesses your ability to write non-specialised texts types such as letters, articles,
reports and reviews for a given purpose and target reader, covering a wide range of topics. The paper
also includes questions on set texts. Responses are of 300-350 words in length.
Use of English (Paper 3), 1 hour 30 minutes
In the Use of English paper, you are expected to demonstrate your knowledge and control of the
language system by completing various tasks at word, sentence and text level. These include gap-
filling and word formation exercises, comprehension questions and a summary writing task.
Listening (Paper 4), 40 minutes (approx.)
The Listening paper assesses the ability to listen to and understand texts taken from a variety of text
types including interviews, discussions, lectures and conversations. It tests the ability to understand the
meaning of spoken English, to extract information from a spoken text and to understand speakers'
attitudes and opinions.
Speaking (Paper 5), 19 minutes
The Speaking Test assesses your ability to interact in conversational English in a range of contexts.
The paper contains three parts, which take the form of an interview section, a collaborative task and
individual long turns with follow-up discussion. You are provided with picture and written stimulus and
you normally take the Speaking Test in pairs.
Cambridge CPE Online Materials
Details Location
Title: CPE - University of Cambridge EOSL http://www.cambridgeesol.org/
Examinations
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: This is the official exam web site for
Cambridge EFL exams, including the CPE. Click on
‘Support’ from the menu bar at the top to access a
number of free downloads to help you prepare for the
exams. On the left you’ll see a box entitled ‘Site
Pathways’. Click on ‘For Language Learners’ to find
out more about the CPE, what skills it covers and
how to prepare for it.
Title: CPE - Flo-Joe http://www.flo-joe.co.uk/
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: Flo-Joe was set up in April 2000 by a
17
small team of Cambridge exam teachers and course
book authors. Their aim is to help people who are
working towards the Cambridge FCE, CAE and CPE
tests. This site is updated regularly and provides free
grammar, vocabulary and test material. There is also
a discussion forum for teachers and students and you
can subscribe to a regular e-newsletter.
Title: CPE - Longman.com Exams Resource Library http://www.longman.com/exams/cae-
Units/pgs: - cpe/cae/students-activities.html
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: On this Longman ELT website, there are
lots of ideas and free resources for English language
exams. Try fun online activities, download free
support materials and get helpful tips on studying for
CPE simply clicking on the CPE ‘star’ button. You’ll
be directed to a page that contains a description of the
exam and student resources such as study tips and
interactive exercises and quizzes.
Title: CPE - English-online.org – EFL Exam Practice http://www.english-online.org.uk/exam.htm
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: You’ll find plenty of exam advice and
practice exercises at this site. Click on ‘CPE’ and
you’ll be given a description of the exam. From the
menu bar at the top you can access information on
the different skills that each exam focuses on. Click
on ‘Introduction’ to find out more about that part of
the exam. Then click on the different ‘Parts’ to see
examples of questions, answers, and examiners
comments.
Title: CPE - SelfAccess.com – Free Sample Lessons http://www.selfaccess.com/
and Exercises
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: This site offers two types of online ESL
lessons for a monthly or annual subscription. You can
also sign up for a three day free trial of all the
material on the site. To try a quick sample, go to the
top of the menu bar on the left, click on ‘Free Sample
Lessons and Exercises’ to access a selection of
activities from different levels and different skill
areas.
The Academic English lessons are longer than the
General English lessons and are perfect for
intermediate-level and above students who need to
prepare for English tests like the CPE. All the lessons
and exercises are based on topical Reuters’ news
articles and current events. The Academic English
exercises contain the types of questions and tasks
used in ESL tests such as the CPE exam.
18
Title: CPE - About.com – ESL Exams http://esl.about.com/sitesearch.htm?terms=E
Units/pgs: - SL%20exams&SUName=esl&TopNode=32
Type: Web 27&type=1
Accent: N/A
Features: This section of the popular About.com http://esl.about.com/od/toeflieltscambridge/
web site includes information and free practice test TOEFL_IELTS_Cambridge_Examination_P
exercises for the Cambridge CPE. reparation.htm
The 2nd URL listed opposite is a large portal where
you’ll find over 160 web pages of recommended sites
related to a wide variety of ESL exams including the
CPE.
5. Academic ESL Tests:
About IELTS:
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) test provides an evaluation of English
for those who wish to study or train in English. IELTS is a jointly managed test by the University of
Cambridge ESOL Examinations, the British Council and IDP Education, Australia. IELTS is recognized
by universities and colleges, as well as employers, immigration authorities and professional bodies in
Britain, Ireland, Australia, South Africa, Canada, and New Zealand.
Studying for the IELTS test usually involves a long course. The preparation time is similar to that of the
TOEFL, FCE or CAE courses (approximately 100 hours).
IELTS is available in two formats: ‗Academic‘ and ‗General Training‘. All candidates do the same
Listening and Speaking sections. The Academic modules assess whether you are ready to study or
train in the medium of English at an undergraduate or postgraduate level. The General Training
modules emphasize basic skills in a broad social and educational context not at degree level.
Listening + General Training Reading + General Training Writing + Speaking
Or
Listening + Academic Reading + Academic Writing + Speaking
The total test time of the exam is 2 hours and 45 minutes and consists of listening, reading, writing and
speaking components.
Listening Section (4 parts; 40 questions; 30minutes):
Candidates listen to a number of recorded texts, which increase in difficulty as the test progresses.
These include a mixture of monologues and conversations and feature a variety of English accents and
dialects. The recording is heard only once, but candidates are given time to read the questions and
write down their answers.
General Training Reading (3 parts; 40 questions; 60 minutes):
The texts are based on the type of material candidates would be expected to encounter on a daily
basis in an English-speaking country. They are taken from sources such as newspapers,
advertisements, instruction manuals and books to test the candidate‘s ability to understand and use
information. The test includes one longer text, which is descriptive rather than argumentative.
19
Academic Reading (3 parts; 40 questions; 60 minutes):
There are three reading passages with tasks. Texts are taken from books, magazines, journals, and
newspapers, all written for a non-specialist audience. At least one of the texts contains a detailed
argument.
General Training Writing (2 parts; 60 minutes):
The first task requires candidates to write a letter of at least 150 words either asking for information, or
explaining a situation. For the second task, candidates write a short essay of at least 250 words in
response to a statement or question. You are expected to demonstrate an ability to present a position,
construct an argument, and discuss issues.
Academic Writing (2 parts; 60 minutes):
Candidates are asked to write a description of at least 150 words. This is based on material found in a
chart, table, graph or diagram and should demonstrate their ability to present information and to
summarise the main features of the input. For the second task, you will write a short essay of at least
250 words in response to a statement or question. You are expected to demonstrate an ability to
present a position, construct and argument and discuss abstract issues.
Speaking (interview; 15 minutes):
The speaking test takes the form of a face-to-face interview. You will be assessed on your use of
spoken English to answer short questions, to speak at length on a familiar topic, and also to interact
with the examiner.
Scoring:
The test is scored on a scale of 1-9. Half scores such as 6.5 are possible. Universities often demand
an IELTS score of 6 or 7. They may also demand a minimum score in each of the 4 sections.
IELTS – Online Materials
Details Location
Title: IELTS – HIPPO http://hippo.ust.hk
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: Help with IELTS Preparation and Practice
On-line (HIPPO) is an on-line resource to help
HKUST students to prepare for the International
English Language Testing Systems (IELTS)
examination, which has been selected by the UGC as
the examination for CEPAS (Common English
Proficiency Assessment Scheme). This site includes
and introduction to IELTS as well as how to prepare
for the exam and practice tests.
Title: IELTS – Home Page http://www.ielts.org/default.aspx
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web http://www.ielts.org/_lib/pdf/1649_IELTShb
Accent: N/A k_2005.pdf
Features: This is the official web site for ielts.org.
You can download the IELTS Handbook, which http://www.cambridgeesol.org/teach/ielts/
20
contains helpful information about the test. The third
link is to the ‘Teacher Resource’ page that, although
designed for teachers, contains sample tasks. Simply
click on any of the following from the menu bar on
the left: ‘Academic reading’, ‘Academic Writing’,
‘General Training Reading’, ‘General Training
Writing’, ‘Listening’, or ‘Speaking’, do access
information and questions about that part of the test.
Title: IELTS – EnglishExam.com http://www.examenglish.com/IELTS/index.p
Units/pgs: - hp
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: You can read a brief introduction to the
test and then check your knowledge by scrolling to
the bottom of the page and clicking on the
highlighted links: ‘Listening test’, ‘General reading
test’, or ‘Academic reading test’.
Title: IELTS – About.com – Preparing for the IELTS http://esl.about.com/cs/quizzesandtests/a/blie
for free on the internet lts.htm
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web http://esl.about.com/cs/quizzesandtests/a/blie
Accent: N/A lts_2.htm
Features: This section of the popular About.com
web site includes information and tips for studying
for the IELTS test.
The 2nd URL listed opposite contains links that lead
you to various free IELTS practice resources on the
Internet.
Title: IELTS – Preparation Web Site http://international.holmesglen.vic.edu.au/IE
Units/pgs: - LTS01.htm
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: This site, managed by Australia’s
Holmsglen Institute, offers information about IELTS
as well as interactive tasks that you can do online and
information you can download and print. Scroll to the
bottom of the home page and click on any of the four
skill areas (reading, writing, listening, speaking) that
you wish to practise. Sample answers are included.
Title: IELTS - Exercises http://www.ielts-test.com/exercises.htm
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: In the following pages you will find
exercises to practice all four parts of the IELTS.
Click on the skill you wish to test yourself on and
read the introduction before printing out the
exercises. The style of these paper-based questions
does not exactly resemble those given in the actual
IELTS test; however the question types are similar.
Check your answers by clicking on the ‘answers’ link
found at the end of the questions.
Title: IELTS – Teacher Joe IELTS Preparation http://teacherjoe.us/IELTSSpeak.html
21
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: ‘Teacher Joe’ is a former IELTS examiner
and you’ll find plenty of practice activities at this
site, especially speaking exercises.
Title: IELTS - Longman.com Exams Resource http://www.longman.com/exams/cae-
Library cpe/cae/students-activities.html
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: On this Longman ELT website, there are
lots of ideas and free resources for English language
exams. Try fun online activities, download free
support materials and get helpful tips on studying for
IELTS simply clicking on the IELTS ‘star’ button.
You’ll be directed to a page that contains a
description of the exam and student resources such as
study tips and interactive exercises and quizzes.
Title: IELTS - English-online.org – EFL Exam http://www.english-online.org.uk/exam.htm
Practice
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: You’ll find plenty of exam advice and
practice exercises at this site. Click on ‘IELTS’ and
you’ll be given a description of the exam. From the
menu bar at the top you can access information on
the different skills that each exam focuses on. Click
on ‘Introduction’ to find out more about that part of
the exam. Then click on the different ‘Parts’ to see
examples of questions, answers, and examiners
comments.
Title: IELTS - One Stop English - Exams http://www.onestopenglish.com/section.asp?
Units/pgs: - sectionType=listsummary&catid=58071&do
Type: Web cid=144744
Accent: N/A
Features: This section of One Stop English contains
a variety of materials designed to help teachers
prepare students for the IELTS exam. Worksheets
and answer keys are provided free of charge for this
substantial IELTS section. Click on the language area
you wish to test yourself on.
Title: IELTS - SelfAccess.com – Free Sample http://www.selfaccess.com/
Lessons and Exercises
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: This site offers two types of online ESL
lessons for a monthly or annual subscription. You can
also sign up for a three day free trial of all the
material on the site. To try a quick sample, go to the
top of the menu bar on the left, click on ‘Free Sample
Lessons and Exercises’ to access a selection of
22
activities from different levels and different skill
areas.
The Academic English lessons are longer than the
General English lessons and are perfect for
intermediate-level and above students who need to
prepare for English tests like IELTS. All of the
lessons and exercises are based on topical Reuters’
news articles and current events. The Academic
English exercises contain the types of questions and
tasks used in ESL tests such as the IELTS test.
About TOEFL iBT:
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) measures the ability of non-native speakers of
English to use and understand North American English as it is spoken, written and heard in college
and university settings. Most people who take the TOEFL test are planning to study at colleges and
universities where instruction is in English. In addition, many government agencies, scholarship
programs, and licensing/certification agencies use TOEFL scores to evaluate English proficiency.
More than 5000 colleges and universities in 90 countries recognize the test.
Beginning in 2005 TOEFL phased in a new internet-Based Test (iBT), which will replace the
current computer-based and paper-based tests. The iBT has 4 sections, reading, listening, speaking
and writing, each with a score of 30, giving a total score of 120.
1 Reading 3-5 passages, 12-14 questions each 60-100 mins
4-6 lectures, 6 questions each
2 Listening 60-90 mins
2-3 conversations, 5 questions each
3 Speaking 6 tasks, 2 independent and 2 integrated 20 mins
1 integrated task
4 Writing 50 mins
1 independent task
An integrated task is one where you have to use more than one skill. For example, you read about
something, listen to a lecture, and then write about what you have heard and read. The TOEFL iBT
no longer has any computer-adaptive sections; it is a linear assessment test covering a full
range of levels of question difficulty. Note taking is allowed during test in order to better reflect
real-life academic situations. The iBT Test takes approximately four hours to finish, and is
administered via the Internet at secure, ETS.-approved test centers.
Scoring Information
The Reading and Listening section scores are based on your performance on multiple-choice
questions. The total points that you receive for each section are converted to a score on a scale from 0
to 30.
The Speaking section is based on your response to six questions. On the actual test, your responses
will be rated by a human evaluator and receive a score of 0 (Low), 1, 2, 3, or 4 (High). The total score
for the 6 questions will be converted to a scale from 0 to 30. The reported score for the Speaking
section will always be on a scale of 0 to 30.
The Writing section has two writing tasks that are scored on a scale from 1 (Low) to 5 (High). On the
actual test, your responses will be rated by human evaluators, and a score of 0 for off-topic responses
23
will also be possible. Your Writing task total score will then be converted to a scale from 0 to 30. The
reported score for the Writing section will always be on a scale of 0 to 30.
TOEFL iBT – Online Materials
Details Location
Title: TOEFL – ETS.org http://www.ets.org/toefl/
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: You can read about the TOEFL iBT test
and how you should prepare for it under the
‘Learners and Test Takers’ section. Scroll down the
home page and click on ‘TOEFL Practice Online
Tour’. The tour will tell you all about the TOEFL test
and has a FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
section.
For language skills practice, look at the menu bar on
the left and click on ‘Online Resources’. You’ll be
directed to a page filled with plenty of recommended
practice sites for you to check out.
Title: TOEFL – English-Test.net - TOEFL Prep http://www.english-test.net/toefl/
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: At English-test.net you can test yourself
with a series of free interactive questions that will
help you to increase your TOEFL-related vocabulary.
At this site you’ll also be able to contact other people
who are preparing for the TOEFL to share
experiences through the TOEFL forum.
Title: TOEFL - About.com – Free TOEFL Study on http://esl.about.com/cs/toefl/a/a_toefl.htm
the Internet
Units/pgs:
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: Taking the TOEFL is a necessary step for
any non US educated student wanting to study at a
North American university. This site provides you
with practice tasks and online exercises related to
‘listening’, ‘structure’, ‘reading’ and ‘writing’. You’ll
also find a selection of sample essays and practice
tests.
Title: TOEFL – EnglishExam.com http://www.examenglish.com/TOEFL/index.
Units/pgs: - php
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: You can read a brief introduction to the
test and then check your knowledge by clicking on
the highlighted link at the top of the page: ‘free
24
practice material’. You have 20 minutes to do 20
questions. When you have completed the test you
will get a score and you can review your answer to
each question.
Title: TOEFL – EnglishClub.com TOEFL Practice http://www.englishclub.com/esl-exams/ets-
Session toefl-practice.htm
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: You can try a few practice questions at this
site. The examples given are very similar to the
questions you will see on the actual TOEFL. Make
sure to read through the explanatory answers, even if
you answer the questions correctly. They will give
you important hints. While you are working through
the examples you will notice that some of the text is
red and some of the text is blue. The parts that you
hear on the real TOEFL will be in red. The parts that
you read will be in blue. You can choose from:
‘Listening’, ‘Structure’, ‘Reading Comprehension’,
or ‘Writing’. Before starting, click on ’20 TOEFL
Tips’ for some preparation ideas.
Title: TOEFL – Free-English.com – Practice Test for http://www.free-english.com/TOEFL-iBT-
the New TOEFL iBT practice-test.aspx#overview
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: Free registration is required, but it’s worth
it! This site contains detailed information about the
new TOEFL iBT as well as practice sections. Choose
from: ‘Reading’, ‘Listening’, ‘Writing’ and
‘Speaking’ from the menu at the top, or scroll down
until you get to that section. You can choose from
three different screen sizes and you will need the
following system requirements: Flash Player: Version
6.x; High-Speed Internet connection;
Computer resolution of 640x480 or greater;
Headphones or speakers (except for the Reading
Section).
Title: TOEFL – iBT Course http://www.toeflibtcourse.com/
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: This commercial site offers tips, practice
tests, and sample exercises and answer keys. From
the menu bar on the left, you can test your knowledge
of ‘Vocabulary’, ‘Writing’, ‘Listening’, ‘Speaking’,
‘Grammar’ or ‘Spelling’.
Title: TOEFL - iBT Sample Questions http://www.fulbright.cz/download/toefl-ibt-
Units/pgs: - sample-questions-2006.pdf
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: You can print out this PDF document and
test your ‘Reading’, ‘Listening’, ‘Speaking’ and
25
‘Writing’ abilities. Answer keys are provided at the
end of each section. The Listening section provides
the transcript only.
Title: TOEFL – Mini Practice Test http://www.kaptest.com/Kaplan/Article/KEP
Units/pgs: - _International/TOEFL-IELTS-Cambridge-
Type: Web Exams/TOEFL/Online-
Accent: N/A Resources/IN_toefl_minipractice.html
Features: Take a 35-minute mini practice test in
preparation for the TOEFL iBT. Prepare for the
Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing questions
on the new test. You'll receive a score on the Reading
and Listening sections and have an opportunity to
review sample Speaking and Writing responses. Free
registration required first.
Title: TOEFL - Edufind.com – English Language http://www.edufind.com/english/englishtests
Tests and Games /list_of_english_tests.cfm
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: This site is part of an English language
resources service where you can work through fully
interactive tests and educational games to improve
your English language skills, access learning material
and English language guides. There is no charge for
using the public section. Most of the tests and games
listed are available for everyone to use. Only those
with a ‘lock’ symbol are for members only.
Title: TOEFL - Longman.com Exams Resource http://www.longman.com/exams/cae-
Library cpe/cae/students-activities.html
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: On this Longman ELT website, there are
lots of ideas and free resources for English language
exams. Try fun online activities, download free
support materials and get helpful tips on studying for
the TOEFL simply clicking on the TOEFL ‘star’
button. You’ll be directed to a page that contains a
description of the exam and student resources such as
study tips and interactive exercises and quizzes.
Title: TOEFL - English-online.org – EFL Exam http://www.english-online.org.uk/exam.htm
Practice
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: You’ll find plenty of exam advice and
practice exercises at this site. Click on ‘TOEFL’ and
you’ll be given a description of the exam. From the
menu bar at the top you can access information on
the different skills that each exam focuses on. Click
on ‘Introduction’ to find out more about that part of
the exam. Then click on the different ‘Parts’ to see
examples of questions, answers, and examiners
comments.
26
Title: TOEFL - One Stop English - Exams http://www.onestopenglish.com/section.asp?
Units/pgs: - sectionType=listsummary&catid=58086&do
Type: Web cid=144837
Accent: N/A
Features: This section of One Stop English contains
a TOEFL listening exercise and includes a worksheet
and teacher’s notes.
Title: TOEFL - SelfAccess.com – Free Sample http://www.selfaccess.com/
Lessons and Exercises
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: This site offers two types of online ESL
lessons for a monthly or annual subscription. You can
also sign up for a three day free trial of all the
material on the site. To try a quick sample, go to the
top of the menu bar on the left, click on ‘Free Sample
Lessons and Exercises’ to access a selection of
activities from different levels and different skill
areas.
The Academic English lessons are longer than the
General English lessons and are perfect for
intermediate-level and above students who need to
prepare for English tests like TOEFL. All of the
lessons and exercises are based on topical Reuters’
news articles and current events. The Academic
English exercises contain the types of questions and
tasks used in ESL tests such as the TOEFL test.
6. Business ESL Tests:
About Cambridge BEC:
Cambridge has two English tests for business: BULATS and BEC. The BEC (Business English
Certificate) is the easier of the two and comes in three levels, Preliminary, Vantage and Higher. The
types of test task are similar to those in the Cambridge ESOL Main Suite, but test language ability in
a business context. They are recognized by many employers worldwide, and students take them to
demonstrate language skills required for international business. There are two pass grades for BEC,
"Pass with merit" and "Pass".
BEC Preliminary
Reading and Writing (1 hour 30 minutes)
In the Reading part there are seven tasks of the following types: multiple choice, matching,
Right/Wrong/Doesn't Say, multiple choice gap-filling and form-filling. The Reading part is 25% of the
total marks.
27
In the Writing part there are two tasks, both compulsory. Candidates produce a piece of internal
company communication (approx. 30-40 words), and a piece of business communication (based on
Reading input, approx. 60-80 words). The Writing part is 25% of the total marks.
Listening (approx. 40 minutes)
In the Listening component there are four tasks of the following types: multiple choice, gap-filling and
form-filling. Texts used are monologues and dialogues, including interviews, discussions, telephone
conversations and messages. The Listening paper is 25% of the total marks.
Speaking (approx. 12 minutes per pair of candidates)
The Speaking Test is conducted by two external examiners and candidates are tested in pairs. At
centers with an uneven number of candidates, the last single candidate is examined with the last pair
in a group of three. (Note: The group of three format may only be used to deal with uneven numbers,
unexpected absence of candidates, illness, etc. It is not an option that may be selected in normal
circumstances where there is an even number of candidates at a session. This is true for all Speaking
components of the BEC).
During the test each candidate responds to questions, gives a 'mini-presentation' lasting approximately
one minute, takes part in a collaborative task with the other candidate and takes part in a discussion
with the other candidate and the interlocutor. The Speaking Test is 25% of the total marks.
BEC Vantage
Reading (1 hour)
In the Reading paper there are five tasks of the following types: multiple choice, matching, sentence
level gap-filling, multiple choice gap-filling and error identification. The Reading paper is 25% of the
total marks.
Writing (45 minutes)
In the Writing paper there are two tasks, both compulsory. Candidates produce a piece of internal
company communication (approx. 40-50 words), and a short report, proposal or piece of business
correspondence (based on Reading input, approx. 120-140 words). The Writing paper is 25% of the
total mark.
Listening (approx. 40 minutes)
In the Listening paper there are three tasks of the following types: gap-filling or note completion,
matching and multiple choice. Texts used are monologues and dialogues, including interviews,
discussions, telephone conversations and messages. The Listening paper is 25% of the total marks.
Speaking (approx. 14 minutes per pair of candidates)
The Speaking Test is conducted by two external examiners and candidates are tested in pairs. At
centers with an uneven number of candidates, the last single candidate is examined with the last pair
in a group of three.
During the test each candidate responds to questions, gives a 'mini-presentation' lasting approximately
one minute, takes part in a collaborative task with the other candidate and takes part in a discussion
with the other candidate and the interlocutor. The Speaking Test is 25% of the total marks.
BEC Higher
Reading (1 hour)
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In the Reading paper there are six tasks of the following types: multiple choice, matching, word level
gap-filling, sentence level gap-filling, multiple choice gap-filling and error identification. The Reading
paper is 25% of the total marks.
Writing (1 hour 10 minutes)
In the Writing paper there are two tasks. In Part One, candidates produce a short report (based on
graphic input, approx. 120-140 words). In Part Two, candidates choose whether to write a report,
proposal or piece of business correspondence. The Writing paper is 25% of the total marks.
Listening (approx. 40 minutes)
In the Listening paper there are three tasks of the following types: gap-filling or note completion,
matching and multiple choice. Texts used are monologues and dialogues, including interviews,
discussions, telephone conversations and messages. The Listening paper is 25% of the total marks.
Speaking (approx. 16 minutes per pair of candidates)
The Speaking Test is conducted by two external examiners and candidates are tested in pairs. At
centers with an uneven number of candidates, the last single candidate is examined with the last pair
in a group of three.
During the test each candidate responds to questions, gives a 'mini-presentation' lasting approximately
one minute, takes part in a collaborative task with the other candidate and takes part in a discussion
with the other candidate and the interlocutor. The Speaking Test is 25% of the total marks.
About Cambridge BULATS:
BULATS (The Business Language Testing Service) is a language assessment service specifically
for the use of companies and organisations. BULATS is for organisations which need a reliable way of
assessing the language ability of groups of employees or trainees.
The service is designed to test the language of employees who need to use a foreign language in their
work and for students and employees on language courses or on professional/business courses where
foreign language ability is an important element of the course.
Each of the four BULATS tests can be used independently of the others, or they can be used in various
combinations. This principle of flexibility allows BULATS to customise the service for different
situations.
A key feature of BULATS compared to other tests of English is that it offers you this choice. Ideally, it is
recommended to use a combination of the BULATS Standard Test with the Speaking and/or Writing
Test to offer a more complete picture of your English competence. In making your decision it is
important that you consider what you want to use the test for. For example, some organisations use
the Standard Test at an early stage in the recruitment of staff to check on a minimum English
competence of a large number of applicants. They may then use the Speaking and/or Writing Tests in
the final selection from a few candidates. If a post requires a high level of writing competence for
emails or reports then it makes sense to use the Writing Test. Similarly, if a person needs to speak
English to deal with customer enquiries or in working with English speaking staff then use the Speaking
Test.
All the tests aim to be relevant to people using the language at work. They cover areas such as
descriptions of jobs, companies and products, travel, management and marketing, customer service,
planning, reports, phone messages, business correspondence and presentations. The tasks in the test
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are generally practical ones, e.g. taking a phone message, checking a letter, giving a presentation,
understanding an article, writing a report.
Computer test
This is a test where the computer selects questions for you according to how well you have answered
previous questions. In other words, the questions adapt to the level of the candidate. The Computer
Test includes a large bank of test questions, covering all levels of ability from basic to advanced. The
questions are displayed on-screen, and candidates respond using the keyboard and mouse. As each
question is answered, the computer assesses the response and selects the next question. The
questions are selected according to whether the candidate's previous answer was right or wrong; in
this way, the questions become progressively easier or harder until the system has a reliable
assessment of the candidate's level. Duration: about 75 minutes.
Standard test
This is a paper-based alternative to the computer test and usually takes about 110 minutes to
complete. There are 110 questions that test your listening and reading skills as well as your knowledge
of grammar and vocabulary. You‘ll listen to conversations, monologues and discussions and complete
multiple-choice, gap-fill, and matching statements questions. The reading part of the test may ask you
to read excerpts from a variety of documents such as notices, messages, timetables, and graphs etc.
and answer questions on them.
Speaking Test
The speaking test has three parts that are conducted in a face-to-face interview and evaluation and
that takes about 12 minutes. In part one you‘ll be asked to answer questions about yourself, your work
and your interests. In part two you choose a topic from a list you are given and give a short
presentation. In part three you ask a question in a role-play situation and have a discussion on the
topic.
Writing Test
For this test, which takes about 45 minutes, you are asked to prepare two pieces of business writing.
For the first you will be asked to write a 50-60 word message or letter using information you are given.
For the second piece you are required to write a 180-250 word report or letter following the instructions
you are given.
All the tests assess candidates across the six levels of the ALTE Framework, i.e. the same test is used
for all candidates whatever their level.
BULATS – Online Materials:
Details Location
Title: BULATS - Bulats.org http://www.bulats.org/index.php
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: This is the official web site of the testing
service so you’ll find plenty of up-to-date
information about the test as well as some sample
questions. Click on the part of the test you are
interested in and scroll to the bottom of the page to
view example questions. From the menu bar on the
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left you can also run through a demonstration version
of the computer test as well as download a 33-page
‘Handbook for Candidates’ (PDF) that contains
sample questions for each of the section.
Title: BULATS - BritishCouncil.org http://www.britishcouncil.org/france-
Units/pgs: - english-exams-bulats.htm
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: After reading a brief introduction to
BULATS, you can practice by clicking on any of the
following from the menu bar on the left: ‘Standard
test paper’, ‘Writing test paper’, or ‘Speaking test
paper’, to download sample papers in PDF format.
No answer key is provided.
Title: BULATS – Language Assessment – Sample http://www.bulats.ch/default.asp?V_ITEM_I
Papers D=522
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: You’ll find a selection of BULATS-related
files to download and test yourself on here. Under the
‘English’ language section, select from ‘Sample
Paper’, Answer Key’, ‘Audio (tapescript)’, ‘Writing
Paper’ or ‘Speaking Paper’.
Title: BULATS - ExamEnglish.com http://www.examenglish.com/BULATS/inde
Units/pgs: - x.php
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: After reading a brief introduction to the
test, you can check your knowledge by clicking on
the highlighted link at the top of the page: ‘Free
Reading Practice Test’.
Title: BULATS – ExamEnglish.com – BULATS http://www.examenglish.com/BULATS/BU
Reading Practice LATS_reading.htm
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: Practice your reading skills here by
reading the passage and then clicking on the multiple
choice options. Answers provided as you go.
About TOEIC:
Every year four and a half million people take the TOEIC (Test of English for International
Communication), run by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). The TOEIC is a multiple choice test
of 200 questions divided into two sections, listening and reading, each scored out of 445, giving a total
of 990. The TOEIC test is under review with some changes being introduced to the new TOEIC. The
main change is that you will also be able to take a Writing and Speaking test along with the Reading
and Listening.
What‘s the difference between TOEIC and TOEFL? Although both are run by ETS, TOEIC evaluates
language skills for the workplace while TOEFL evaluates language skills in an academic context.
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Many companies and government agencies use TOEIC as a criterion for recruiting or promoting
staff, or for sending staff abroad. Some universities also use TOEIC, requiring their business school
students to achieve a particular score prior to graduation, for example. In Hong Kong, the TOEIC is
used for benchmarking in the Workplace English Campaign (see:
http://www.iiehongkong.org/exam/toeic.htm)
It is important to understand that the TOEIC does not measure what have you learned in one
particular English class but evaluates your general command of the English language in a business
setting. This means, you have to use and explore as many materials, resources and methods as
possible in order to improve your English. You should create an environment in which you are
exposed to the English language on a daily basis. For example, you can listen to the Voice of
America, watch television on CNN, SkyNews or BBC, read newspaper articles in English and write
emails.
The TOEIC test is a paper-and-pencil, 200-question, multiple-choice assessment that uses
audiocassettes, pictures, and written materials to evaluate English language skills. The test takes
about two and a half hours to administer and the results are given in the form of a number as follows:
TOEIC number level
The TOEIC gives a score between 10 and 990:
905 – 990 International Proficiency
785 – 900 Working Proficiency Plus
605 – 780 Limited Working Proficiency
405 – 600 Elementary Proficiency Plus
255 – 400 Elementary Proficiency
185 – 250 Memorised Proficiency
10 – 180 No Useful Proficiency
Many jobs require a score of 600+ while managers often need a minimum score of 800.
TOEIC – Online Materials:
Details Location
Title: TOEIC - ETS.org http://www.ets.org/toeic/
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: This is the official web site of the
Educational Testing Service, which runs the TOIEC
test. Click on ‘About the Test’ to be directed to
information that will provide you with an overview
of the test. From the tabs at the top choose ‘Test
Preparation’ to access a PDF handout that you can
download that contains helpful tips and sample
questions.
Title: TOIEC – English-Test.net http://www.english-test.net/toeic/
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: At English-test.net you can practice free
interactive questions to increase your TOEIC
vocabulary. On the TOIEC forum you can
32
communicate with other people who are preparing for
the test. There is a total of 684 tests with 10 questions
each. If you take all of the tests you will have learned
3420 words that frequently occur in the TOEIC! You
can approach the tests two ways: either by selecting
the word by meaning, or selecting the meaning by
word.
Title: TOEIC – Sample Questions http://www.uk.toeic.eu/toeic-sites/toeic-
Units/pgs: - default/preparing-for-the-toeic/resources-to-
Type: Web help-you/toeicR-sample-questions/
Accent: N/A
Features: On this page, you’ll find a good selection
of listening and reading questions to test your
knowledge of. The answers are located immediately
underneath each question so try not to look!
Title: TOEIC – One-language.com http://www.1-
Units/pgs: - language.com/materials/toeic/index.htm
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: This is a colourful, fun, interactive site that
lets you test your TOEIC knowledge. The site is
divided into four sections. Choose from ‘Section 01,
02, or 03’ from the tabs at the top. Each section
contains different kinds of questions. As you go
through the questions, you can check your answer by
clicking on the question buttons at the bottom of the
screen. At the bottom of the home page click on the
middle button ‘Score Module’ to see your overall
results.
Title: TOEIC – EnglishClub.com – TOEIC Tips http://www.englishclub.com/esl-exams/ets-
Units/pgs: - toeic-tips.htm
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: You’ll find 20 helpful study tips at this
site. To test your knowledge, scroll to the bottom of
the page and click on ‘TOEIC Practice Session’. Here
you’ll be able to view examples of each section of the
test with accompanying explanations concerning
right and wrong answers.
Title: TOEIC – ESLGold.net http://www.eslgold.com/toefl.html
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features:
Title: TOEIC – ExamEnglish.com http://www.examenglish.com/TOEIC/index.
Units/pgs: - php
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: After reading a brief introduction to the
test, you can check your knowledge of ‘incomplete
sentences’ and ‘error recognition’ by clicking on the
highlighted links. When you have finished the
practice test, you will be able to review each question
and compare your answers with the correct answers.
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Title: TOEIC - Longman.com Exams Resource http://www.longman.com/exams/cae-
Library cpe/cae/students-activities.html
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: On this Longman ELT website, there are
lots of ideas and free resources for English language
exams. Try fun online activities, download free
support materials and get helpful tips on studying for
the TOEIC simply clicking on the TOEIC ‘star’
button. You’ll be directed to a page that contains a
description of the exam and student resources such as
study tips and interactive exercises and quizzes.
Title: TOEIC - SelfAccess.com – Free Sample http://www.selfaccess.com/
Lessons and Exercises
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: This site offers two types of online ESL
lessons for a monthly or annual subscription. You can
also sign up for a three day free trial of all the
material on the site. To try a quick sample, go to the
top of the menu bar on the left, click on ‘Free Sample
Lessons and Exercises’ to access a selection of
activities from different levels and different skill
areas.
The Academic English lessons are longer than the
General English lessons and are perfect for
intermediate-level and above students who need to
prepare for English tests like TOEIC. All of the
lessons and exercises are based on topical Reuters’
news articles and current events. The Academic
English exercises contain the types of questions and
tasks used in ESL tests such as the TOEIC exam.
7. University Entrance Tests:
About SAT:
There are two kinds of SAT tests - the SAT Reasoning Test (general test) and SAT Subject Tests. The
SAT Reasoning Test (formerly known as SAT I) measures the critical reading, writing and
mathematical abilities you'll need for academic success in the US. SAT Subject Tests (formerly known
as SAT II) measure your knowledge and skills in specific subjects. Subject Tests fall into five general
subject areas - English, History and Social Studies, Mathematics, Science and Languages. Students
can take up to three SAT Subject Tests on a single test date, but cannot take the SAT Reasoning Test
and SAT Subject Tests during the same test administration.
The SAT Reasoning Test is administered by the College Board and is developed, published, and
scored by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). The test takes 3 hours and 45 minutes and costs
34
US$41.50 (US$63.50 International). It is administered seven times a year in the U.S., and six times a
year overseas.
The test has undergone a number of different modifications since it was first introduced in 1901. In
2005 it was renamed the SAT Reasoning Test with possible scores from 600 to 2400. Most of the
questions on the SAT are multiple-choice with five possible answers to choose from. The questions are
weighted equally. For each correct answer, one point is added. For each incorrect answer one-fourth of
a point is deducted. No points are deducted for incorrect math grid-in questions. This ensures that your
mathematically expected gain from guessing is zero.
The SAT consists of three major sections: Mathematics, Critical Reading, and Writing. Each section is
scored on a scale of 200 to 800.
Part 1 ~ Critical Reading:
This section is comprised of three or four parts, with varying types of questions, including sentence
completions and questions about short and long reading passages. The reading passages are
excerpts from the social sciences, humanities, sciences, or personal narratives.
Part 2 ~ Mathematics:
This section consists of three to four parts all of which contain only questions with straightforward
symbolic or numerical answers. There are two long (25-minute) sections and one short (20-minute)
section, as follows:
A 20- question multiple choice section (25 minutes)
An 8-question multiple choice and 10-grid-in questions (25 minutes)
A 16 question multiple choice section (20 minutes)
Part 3 ~ Writing:
This section includes a multiple choice questions and a brief essay. The multiple choice questions
include error identification, sentence improvement, and paragraph improvement questions. These
questions are designed to test your grammar, vocabulary, and knowledge of paragraph development.
The essay takes 25 minutes and is in response to a ‗prompt‘, which are usually broad and often
philosophical.
Results:
In addition to your score, with each section graded on a scale of 200 to 800, you will receive your
percentile (the percentage of other test takers with lower scores).
SAT – Online Materials:
Details Location
Title: SAT – CollegeBoard.com – SAT Preparation http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing
Units/pgs: - /sat/prep_one/prep_one.html
Type: Web
Accent: N/A http://www.collegeboard.com/prod_downloa
Features: You’ll find plenty of practice questions at ds/highered/apr/sat_pb_2007.pdf
this site. Click on any of the following options from
the menu bar on the left: ‘General test-taking
approaches’, ‘Critical reading’, ‘Mathematics’,
35
‘Writing’, and ‘Practice Test’. Click on the second
URL to download a PDF document on preparing for
the SAT.
Title: SAT - StudyGuide.com – SAT Study Guides http://www.studyguidezone.com/sattest.htm
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: StudyGuideZone.com offers an exclusive
free, downloadable study guide to the Internet
community for the SAT test. The guide is in PDF
format, so you'll need Adobe's free Reader. Click on
the exam area you are interested in studying and
testing yourself on. You can choose from Writing,
Reading, Math, Essay, Practise Questions and Exam
Information.
Title: SAT - English-Test.net http://www.english-test.net/sat/
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: At English-test.net you can test yourself
with a series of free interactive questions that will
help you to increase your SAT-related vocabulary. At
this site you’ll also be able to contact other people
who are preparing for the SAT to share experiences
through the SAT forum.
Title: SAT – The Online Test Page http://www.saab.org/saab_org.cgi
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: This free site contains a good selection of
quizzes and practice tests related to the SAT test. All
of the activities are arranged under the following
headings: ‘SAT Tests and Drills’, ‘Vocabulary Tests
and Drills’ and ‘Mathematics Tests and Drills’.
Simply click on the one you are interested in testing
yourself on.
Title: SAT - Yahoo! Education http://education.yahoo.com/college/essential
Units/pgs: - s/practice_tests/sat/;_ylt=AvlWCrOz9xY9d
Type: Web Y.TWlvrSbwemrQF
Accent: N/A
Features: Yahoo! Education offers practice SAT
questions in reading comprehension, sentence
correction, critical reasoning, data sufficiency, and
problem solving. Click on the area you are interested
in.
Title: SAT - 4Tests.com – SAT Practice http://www.4tests.com/exams/examdetail.as
Units/pgs: - p?eid=6
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: 4Tests.com is a world-wide provider of
free, online practice exams. Click on the math or
critical reading quizzes in this section on the SAT to
test yourself.
Title: SAT – Syvum SAT Test Preparation Practice http://www.syvum.com/sat/
36
Exercises
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: This sites SAT Test Preparation section
contains practice exercise tests that will help you
sharpen your math, writing and critical reading skills
to maximize your score. A set of questions is
randomly selected from a carefully prepared database
for each practice exercise test. After scoring, please
click the "Try another set" button to get a new set of
SAT questions from the same database. Click on any
of activities arranged under the following headings:
‘SAT Mathematics Ability’, ‘SAT Critical Reading
and Verbal Ability’, ‘SAT Vocabulary Builder’
Title: SAT Preparation http://www.sat-preparation.co.il/
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: This is a vocabulary-oriented site that will
help you test yourself on words commonly found in
the vocabulary section of the SAT. Click on the
‘Quiz’ icon on the left to be directed to a selection of
tests you can choose from.
About GMAT:
The Graduate Management Admissions Test, more commonly referred to by the acronym GMAT
(pronounced G-mat) is a standardized aptitude designed to measure basic verbal, mathematical, and
analytical writing skills. It is often required as a prerequisite for graduate business studies. The GMAT
test is one of the selection criteria used by many business schools for admission into their MBA
programs. The fee to take the test is currently US$250 worldwide and scores are valid for five years
from the date the test taker sits for the test.
As of 1 January 2006, the GMAT test is administered by ACT Inc. (which develops the test questions
and CAT software) and Pearson Vue (which delivers the test at testing centers worldwide). The GMAT
is a computer adaptive test. This means that the multiple choice questions in the quantitative and
verbal sections are adjusted to the ability level of the test taker.
Specific details on how the computer adaptive test process works can be found online at the Graduate
Management Admission Council‘s website. Because the computer test system will not advance to the
next question without answering the current question, all questions must be answered. In cases where
the answer is not known, it is therefore necessary to make an educated guess. It is also imperative that
all test questions are completed. Therefore, proper pacing throughout the test is necessary.
The test consists of three main parts: the Analytical Writing Assessment, the Quantitative Section and
the Verbal Section.
Part 1 ~ Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA):
The AWA consists of two separate writing tasks—Analysis of an Issue and Analysis of an Argument.
Test takers are allowed 30 minutes to complete each essay. The essays are read by two readers who
each mark the essay in 0.5 increments. If the two scores are within one point of each other, they are
37
averaged. If there is more than one point difference, a third reader is asked to read the essays to
provide another opinion.
The first ‗reader‘ is a computer program, called ‗Intellimetric‘, developed by Vantage Learning to
analyse syntax, grammar and spelling. The second and third readers are human. The human readers
generally look at the overall impact of the essay. Although spelling does not formally count against your
score, it can bring your score down if the reader can‘t understand what you are saying due to
misspelled words. There are no length requirements for the essays. The readers are looking for well
structured writing that flows smoothly.
Part 2 ~ Quantitative Section:
Following an optional ten-minute break, the Quantitative section test begins. This section contains 37
multiple-choice questions of two question types—Data Sufficiency and Problem Solving. Test takers
are allowed a maximum of 75 minutes to complete the entire section.
Part 3 ~ Verbal Section:
After a second optional ten-minute break, the Verbal Section of the test begins. This section contains
41 multiple-choice questions of three question types—Reading Comprehension, Critical Reasoning,
and Sentence Correction. Test takers are allowed a maximum of 75 minutes to complete the entire
section.
Required Scores
The verbal and quantitative sections of the GMAT have scores that range from zero to 60. These raw
scores are then converted to an overall ―total‖ score that ranges from 200 to 800. Two thirds of all test
takers will have a total score between 400 and 600.
Most business schools don‘t publish the minimum score they require. Generally, however, top schools
take in students with scores in the upper 600s. Other less prestigious schools will have average scores
that may be in the 500s or less. Remember that half of all successful applicants will have scored below
the median mark. Business schools also look at real work accomplishments, undergraduate
performance, and references etc. when selecting candidates.
GMAT – Online Materials:
Details Location
Title: GMAT - Graduate Management Admissions http://www.gmac.com/gmac/TheGMAT/Def
Council (GMAC) ault.htm
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web http://www.gmac.com/gmac/TheGMAT/Wh
Accent: N/A atIstheGMAT/WhattheGMATMeasures.htm
Features: This site provides accurate information
about the GMAT test including an FAQ (frequently
asked questions) section. The second URL takes you
to a page that details what the GMAT test measures
and analyses.
Title: GMAT - StudyGuideZone.com – GMAT http://www.studyguidezone.com/gmattest.ht
Study Guides m
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: StudyGuideZone.com offers an exclusive
38
free, downloadable study guide to the Internet
community for the GMAT test. The guide is in PDF
format, so you'll need Adobe's free Reader
Title: GMAT - Test Prep Review – GMAT Online http://www.testprepreview.com/gmat_practi
Study ce.htm
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: Read about the GMAT test and then scroll
down and click on the area you wish to practice. You
can choose from Algebra, Grammar, Reading
Comprehension, etc. Complete the multiple choice
questions and then click on the ‘evaluate’ icon to find
out your score.
Title: GMAT - English-Test.net http://www.english-test.net/gmat/
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: At English-test.net you can test yourself
with a series of free interactive questions that will
help you to increase your GMAT-related vocabulary.
At this site you’ll also be able to contact other people
who are preparing for the GMAT to share
experiences through the GMAT forum.
Title: GMAT - Yahoo! Education http://education.yahoo.com/college/essential
Units/pgs: - s/practice_tests/gmat/;_ylt=Ao6lcXSJzst9Bi
Type: Web e.HZ_nzPEQmrQF
Accent: N/A
Features: Yahoo! Education offers practice GMAT
questions in reading comprehension, sentence
correction, critical reasoning, data sufficiency, and
problem solving. Click on the area you are interested
in.
Title: GMAT - The GMAT Cat http://www.west.net/~stewart/gmat/
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: You’ll find a selection of interactive
GMAT-related activities and quizzes at this site
under headings such as ‘Teach Yourself’, ‘Coach
Yourself’, ‘Test Yourself’ and ‘Prepare Yourself’.
Simply click on the area you are interested in.
Title: GMAT - 800score.com http://www.800score.com/gmat-home.html
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: 800 Score is a professional GMAT
preparation company so some services on the site you
must pay for. However, there are a lot of free sample
questions and tips to be found here, including an
essay guide and time-management strategies.
Title: GMAT - Business Week Magazine – GMAT http://www.businessweek.com/bschools/gma
Prep t/
Units/pgs: -
39
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: The online version of Business Week
Magazine has practice resources and strategies for the
GMAT. Some exclusive Kaplan prep questions are
also available free here. This section will help you
prepare for the GMAT with regularly updated tips on
how to excel at the nearly four-hour, computerized
test. You can get an idea of what the test questions
will look like so that you're comfortable on test day.
Click on ‘Test Your Skills’ to access a selection of
quizzes.
Title: GMAT - About.com – GMAT Prep http://testprep.about.com/od/gmat/The_Grad
Units/pgs: - uate_Management_Admissions_Test.htm
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: About.com divides its GMAT prep
resources into subtopics of analytical writing, verbal,
and quantitative. There are also answers to frequently
asked questions, and articles titled "How to Prepare
for the GMAT" and "Overview of the GMAT."
Title: GMAT - mba.com – GMAT Resources http://www.mba.com/mba/TaketheGMAT
Units/pgs: -
Type: Web
Accent: N/A
Features: At this official GMAT site you can learn
the basics about the test and browse preparation
materials.
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