Exam-Based English Language Courses

Cambridge Exams: These are exams set by Cambridge University to test different levels of English Language Proficiency.

KET Key English Test - Level One
What is it? - A basic qualification in English which tests your ability to understand simple conversations and reading texts.
Who can take it? - It is suitable for elementary to pre-intermediate students
Components - The exam consists of 3 papers: Reading and Writing / Listening / Speaking.
When does the exam take place? 6 times a year in centres around the world.

PET Preliminary English Test - Level Two
What is it? - This tests your ability to understand common social and work situations such as in a restaurant or at a party.
Who can take it? - It is suitable for pre-intermediate or lower intermediate students.
Components - The exam consists of 3 papers: Reading and Writing / Listening / Speaking.
When does the exam take place? - 3 times a year in centres around the world.

FCE First Certificate in English - Level Three
What is it? - This is the most popular Cambridge examination. It is widely recognised in business, industry and by universities.
Who can take it? - It is suitable for intermediate and upper intermediate students.
Components - The exam consists of 5 papers: Reading / Writing / Use of English / Listening / Speaking.
When does the exam take place? FCE is taken in June and December in centres around the world.

CAE Certificate in Advanced English - Level Four
What is it? - This is a high level qualification for people who need English for work or study.
Who can take it? - It is suitable for those who have completed the FCE or are upper intermediate to advanced students
Components - The exam consists of 5 papers: Reading / Writing / English in Use / Listening / Speaking.
When does the exam take place? The CAE is held in June and December around the world.

CPE Certificate of Proficiency in English - Level 5
What is it? This qualification shows a thorough knowledge of English for work and study and is recognised by businesses and universities throughout the world.
Who can take it? This is for advanced English language students
Components - The exam consists of 5 papers: Reading / Comprehension / English in Use / Listening / Interview
When does the exam take place? It is held in June and December around the world.

IELTS - International English Language Testing System
What is it? - This exam is taken worldwide by students who want to study or work in an English speaking country. It is designed to show your level of proficiency to universities or businesses
Who can take it? Students of any level can take this exam. You do not pass or fail IELTS. Instead you are given a mark from band 1 (beginner) to band 9 (advanced). This shows your performance in the exam.
Components - The exam consists of 4 papers: Listening / Speaking / General Reading / General Writing OR Academic Reading / Academic Writing.
When does the exam take place? Exams usually take place once a month at centres around the world.

ETS (Educational Testing Service)
Exams - These are American exams which test English Language Proficiency in American English rather than British English.

TOEFL - Test of English as a Foreign Language
What is it? This exam measures proficiency in English of people who want to study at universities in English speaking countries - specifically American and UK universities. It is also recognised by universities and businesses around the world.
Who can take it? Students of any level can take this exam. You do not pass or fail. Instead you receive a score between 10 - 700. This shows your English ability.
Components - The exam consists of 4 papers: Structure and Written Expression / Listening / Reading / Writing
When does the exam take place? Exams usually take place once a month at centres around the world.