Types of English exams accepted for international students

There are many types of exams that international students can perform to apply to a post-secondary institution, However, there are many doubts about the exams that are allowed, scores that most colleges and universities are asking for, and areas that the exams evaluate.

What are the types of English exams accepted for international students or non-native English speakers?

These exams are all standardized exams that measure the English language proficiency of international students or non-native English speakers. Most of these exams are recognized on a worldwide level by many institutions, organizations, governments, and immigration agencies, for that reason obtaining a good score in them can have a big impact on the area the person is trying to apply to.

Have in mind that most of these exams expire and the scores are valid for two (2) years. After that, you will have to retake the exam in case of needing again the results. Also, these exams evaluate the areas of reading, writing, listening, and speaking areas of the English language.

Some of the types of English exams accepted for international students are:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

This exam is managed by the British Council and is valid in over 140 countries. The IELTS has 9 bands and goes from band 1 (non-user) to band 9 (expert user) and scores accepted from post-secondary institutions may vary.

This exam contains two different versions depending on the level the person is looking to assess. The difference between both versions is the content, the context, and the overall objective of the assignments. The IELTS score that Acsenda allows is 6.5 (with no band less than 6).

1. The Academic version is for those that look forward to studying in a post-secondary institution or being part of an organization that requires the English academic exam.
2. The General version is for those who want to work and train in an English-speaking country or people that are looking to immigrate to a country like Canada.

For more information, please go to the IELTS  website.

• TOEFL (Test Of English as a Foreign Language)

This exam is managed by the Educational Testing Service and is valid in over 190 countries. The TOEFL score ranges go from 0 (below basic or below low-intermediate) to 30 (Advanced) for each section of the test and each score is divided into 4 or 5 proficiency levels.

This exam contains two different versions depending on the place the exam is presented. The difference between both is the availability and the administration of the tests. The TOEFL score that Acsenda allows is PBT 575 or iBT 90.

1. The iBT (Internet-built test) is for those who wish to take the exam via the internet on a computer.
2. The PBT (Paper-based test) is for those who wish to take the exam in person or that do not have access to an internet connection.

For more information about the TOEFL, please go to the Educational Testing Service website.

• CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language)

This exam is managed by Paragon and is valid for all institutions, organizations, and government agencies within Canada. The CAEL score ranges go from 10 (Low beginner) to 90 (Expert) with an explanation of what each band represents. Besides, there is an overall score of the average of four components (writing, listening, speaking, and reading) calculated as well.

This exam has two delivery methods which are the online test and the test centre test. The differences between both are availability, location, requirements, and cancellation deadline. The CAEL score that Acsenda allows is 70 (with no component less than 60).

For more information, please go to the CAEL website.

• PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)

This exam is managed by Pearson and is currently valid in 74 countries. The PTE Academic overall score ranges from 10 (below basic) to 90 (Advanced), and individual scores for each of the sections of the exam. Also, a score report and a skills profile will be delivered to understand the language skill level.

This exam has two delivery methods which are the PTE Academic and the PTE Academic online. There are no differences between both except for the location where the test is taken. The PTE Academic score that Acsenda allows is 60.

For more information about the PTE Academic, please go to the Pearson website.

For the following two exams, have in mind that are not official or valid for every institution or organization, might be or might not be accepted for particular cases, as well as just valid specifically for Acsenda under certain conditions. 

• DET (Duolingo English Test)

The Duolingo test is managed by its own company and is currently valid in over 3000 institutions. The DET score ranges from 10 (Basic) to 160 (Advanced). Overall scores include an explanation of what the person can do and subscores measure the skills in particular areas.

This exam can only be taken online so access to highspeed internet is needed. The DET score that Acsenda requires for direct entry is 120. Acsenda accepts Duolingo on a temporary basis, subject to review in June 2025.

For more information about the DET, please go to the Duolingo website.

• EPT (Acsenda English Placement Test)

This on-campus placement test is used to place ASM applicants in the appropriate level of English. As such, there is no need for any special preparation done beforehand. The EPT uses three independent components to assess all the applicant’s English language skills of Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing. There are a few reasons why the EPT is recommended to applicants as their choice of English proficiency proof.

1. The test fee is CAD 55, which is low compared to available standardized English tests such as IELTS, TOEFL etc.
2. The placement is based on the aggregate score of the components of EPT, which is specifically aligned with ASM levels and allows applicants to be placed fairly and accurately.
3. The test combines a computer-based component with a paper-based essay and Speaking interaction with a human examiner. This creates a balanced advantage for different applicants with different strengths. 
4. The test provides a good opportunity for the applicants to familiarize themselves with their future campus and meet with the faculty and staff members in person, if necessary.

How does the EPT work and when is offered?

Currently, the EPT test is offered by prior appointment every Wednesday, 2-5 pm. Applicants can book a test by contacting the Admissions department at Admissions@acsenda.com or by communicating with their representatives.

The EPT is valid for enrollment in any academic program of the institution. The minimum EPT score that Acsenda requires for direct entry is 80. However, if applicants do not meet the minimum English proficiency requirements, Acsenda offers two preparatory courses with a focus on improving academic various English language and academic skills to the level necessary for academic success at Acsenda.

If you want to know more about the types of English exams accepted for international students in Acsenda, please go to the entrance requirements section.