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Q: Why is it important to take English proficiency tests?
Simply saying "I can speak English" is not enough. In today's global workplace, English is a tool. You must be able to prove how well you can use that tool. If you have a current test score, then you will be ready for any opportunity that comes up, whether it is a study-abroad program or a job!

Q: What English proficiency tests are there?
The major proficiency tests of English are:

TOEFL
Test of English as a Foreign Language
A test of academic English used for admission into higher education programs throughout the world.
TOEIC
Test of English for International Communication
A test of general and professional English used in the professional world.
Eiken
英語検定試験 (also called "STEP")
A test of daily communication used only in Japan.
IELTS
International English Language Testing System
A test of academic English used for admissions to academic institutions in Australia, U.K. , N.Z., and Canada.
UNATE
United Nations Association's Test of English (国連英検）
A test of general English at higher levels.

Q: Which test should I take?

It depends what your goal is.

TOEFL 500/173 is needed to study at some US junior colleges. This is a great level for job-hunting!

If you want to become a teacher of English in Hokkaido, you need TOEFL 550/213, TOEIC 730, UNATE A, or Eiken pre-1 to have your English test waived on the licensing exam.

If you want to study at Univ. of Lethbridge or Brock Univ. without taking EFL classes, you need TOEFL 550/213. (Otherwise you must enroll in their EFL program first.)

TOEFL scores in the 600s are needed to study abroad at graduate level.

Q: How do these test scores compare?
 These tests are all scored differently because they were developed for different purposes. However, if you have a test score for one test, it is possible to estimate your expected range for another test. Click here to compare test scores.

Q: How can I find more information?
Click here for information on test dates in 2004, costs, and websites.

Q: Any study tips?
Go to my links page for online resources. (And be sure to use the study resources at the independent study booths at Hokkai Gakuen University!)

　

Last revised: October 29, 2004

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

　

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This is not an official Hokkai Gakuen University site. I will make every effort to make sure the information is correct, but I do not take responsibility for any errors. It is the repsonsibility of the reader to confirm information!

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