Are you from a university or college?
Cambridge ESOL exams: Introduction for schools and universities
If you are trying to attract students from other countries to study at your university, you will no doubt require evidence of English language ability. A Cambridge ESOL qualification can provide such evidence.
Almost every university and college of higher education in the United Kingdom, hundreds of others in the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many other countries, accept Cambridge ESOL exams at Council of Europe Common European Framework of Reference for Languages Levels C1 and C2, or an IELTS score of 6.5 or above, as evidence that the learner has sufficient language ability to follow a course taught in English.
You may find that potential students ask if you accept the following exams as part of your entry requirements.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- An international English language test, which scores candidates in a range from 1 (non-user) to 9 (expert user). Visit the IELTS website to view band scores.
- Scores of 6.5 and above are usually accepted by academic institutions worldwide as demonstrating an appropriate level of English language proficiency.
- IELTS is run as a partnership between Cambridge ESOL, the British Council and IDP: IELTS Australia.
CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English)
- A very advanced level exam, at Level C2 of the Council of Europe's Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
- Students with this qualification have achieved a high level of language skills, and are able to function effectively in almost any English-speaking context. They are approaching a standard of English similar to that of an educated native speaker.
- Typical capabilities include:
Listening/Speaking Reading Writing CAN understand jokes, colloquial asides and cultural allusions. CAN access all sources of information quickly and reliably. CAN make accurate and complete notes during the course of a lecture, seminar or tutorial.
CAE (Certificate in Advanced English)
- An advanced level exam, at Level C1 of the Council of Europe's Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
- Students with this qualification can communicate with confidence in English and can deal with most aspects of everyday life. They can perform confidently in social and professional situations, and in higher education.
- Typical capabilities include:
Listening/Speaking Reading Writing CAN follow abstract argumentation, for example the balancing of alternatives and drawing a conclusion. CAN read quickly enough to cope with the demands of an academic course. CAN write an essay which shows ability to communicate, giving few difficulties for the reader.
Do you recognise Cambridge ESOL exams?
Visit the IELTS website to find a list of institutions that recognise IELTS.
Find a list of institutions that recognise CPE and CAE.
You may find that your university or college is already listed. If not, why not add it to the list and make it easier for international students to apply to your institution?
