Studying abroad is a great way to experience a new country and culture, but depending on where you travel, you might need to study in a language that isn’t your own.
An English Language Test (ELT) is an essential requirement if you’re an international student applying for a program taught in English.
There are several test providers with different scoring systems, which can seem like a lot to familiarize yourself with. We’re here to break down the basics so you’ll feel confident to ace your ELT and strengthen your English language skills.
In this guide we'll cover:
Why international students need an ELT to study abroad
What is an ELT?
An English Language Test (ELT) assesses your ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.
Universities attract students from all over the world who speak a diverse range of languages.
Since English is the most widely spoken language globally, most universities use it as the main language of instruction for international students. This ensures that everyone has an equal opportunity to participate in their studies.
Why do international students need an ELT to study abroad?
As an international student, you may be asked to take an ELT in order to:
Demonstrate your language proficiency and your ability to engage in your chosen university program
Apply for a student visa in English-speaking countries such as the UK, USA, Australia, and Canada
Both universities and visa authorities usually require you to take an ELT to show that you have the language skills needed to succeed both academically and personally in your study abroad country.
This even applies to students who already have a good understanding of the language. Your university needs to be sure that you can use English in an academic setting, as well as in everyday conversation, as these can be quite different. Whether you’re writing essays or having informal discussions, ELTs assess a range of skills and situations to ensure you are prepared.
Types of ELTs
The type of ELT you need to take will depend on the university that you’re applying for. Some language proficiency tests (like TOEFL iBT and IELTS) are required by a wide variety of universities globally.
Other options (like TOEFL Essentials and Duolingo) aren’t as commonly accepted, but are a more budget-friendly alternative.
Examples of ELTs include:
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
One of the most common ELTs, accepted by over 13,000 institutions in over 160 countries. TOEFL tests are taken either in a test center or at home.
There are two TOEFL tests available to international students:
TOEFL iBT: An online test that takes around 2-3 hours to complete. The total possible score is 120 with equal weight given to all 4 areas of assessment. Your results are valid for 2 years after you have taken the test
TOEFL Essentials: A cheaper, more accessible alternative to the TOEFL iBT exam. The test is 1.5 hours long but isn’t accepted by all universities so students should check before choosing this exam
Students can choose to complete the TOEFL test in either US English or UK English. The fee to take a TOEFL test depends on the country where you take it, but can average between $180-$320 USD.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
Widely accepted in countries like the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Students can take an IELTS test online or on paper, and choose to do so either at home or at a test center.
Results are available 6-13 days after you have completed the test. You will receive an overall score of between 0-9, with 0 being the lowest score and 9 being the highest. Results are valid for 2 years after you have taken the test, but your university can choose to accept results for longer, so make sure to check with yours directly.
The average cost of an IELTS test ranges from $200-$250 USD.
PTE (Pearson Test of English)
Trusted by over 3,500 universities and colleges worldwide and accepted for visa applications in countries like Australia, Canada, the UK, and New Zealand.
Tests can be taken either at a test center or at home, with results available as little as 48 hours after you have completed the test. Your overall score will be graded between 10-90.
It will cost you anywhere between $180-$315 USD to take a PTE test depending on your location.
Cambridge English Exams
There are a number of different tests students can take depending on their level of understanding.
Two of the most common are the C1 and C2 tests:
C1 Advanced: This test demonstrates that you understand English at a high level and are prepared to use it both at university and in your professional life
C2 Proficiency: This is for students who have mastered English and use it fluently
Both C1 and C2 tests can be taken online or on paper, and usually take up to 4 hours to complete.
Students taking C1 tests will receive a score between 180-199, and 200-230 for C2 tests.
Cambridge ELT results don’t expire, meaning your qualification is valid for life.
Cambridge English Exams cost an average fee of $150-$250 USD for most levels.
Duolingo
Accepted by over 5,000 universities globally, and can be taken online at any time and location.
The test typically takes around 1 hour to complete and you can receive your results in as little as two days.
You will be scored between 10-160, and get a breakdown of the individual scores you achieved in your reading, listening, writing and speaking skills.
Duolingo tests are one of the most-effective options with a fee of $49 USD plus taxes to take the test.
How universities treat ELTs differently
Different universities will have their own requirements and expectations when it comes to ELTs. Some accept multiple ELTs, while others prefer you take a specific test. For example, though both IELTS and TOEFL tests are common worldwide, IELTS tests are particularly popular in the UK, Ireland, and Australia, while TOEFL tests are generally preferred in the USA and Canada.
The minimum ELT score required to apply for a university program will also vary depending on the institution, your academic level (e.g. undergraduate or postgraduate), the type of test, and the type of program you are taking. For instance, a bachelor’s degree in humanities may generally ask for a minimum IELTS score of 6.0, while degrees in medicine or law are known to have stricter standards and can require a minimum IELTS score as high as 7.5.
How to take an ELT
Here’s what to expect when you take an ELT:
1. Choose the right test
First, you need to decide what test is right for you and where you want to study. Research what test is accepted by the universities and visa authorities you are applying to. Check the specific score requirements so that you know what you need to work towards.
2. Register and pay for the test
Details on how to register for your ELT will be on the official website of your chosen test. In most cases, you’ll be able to do this online, but paper application forms may also be available.
Choose a time, date, and (if applicable) a location that is convenient for you. If you would prefer to take your test in-person, many ELT providers have test centers at various locations worldwide, so find the one that is closest to you.
You’ll need to pay a fee when you book your test, and the price of each test is different. Check the provider’s website to find out how to pay and what payment methods are accepted.
3. Prepare for the test
Just like with any tests or exams that you take, it’s important to be prepared before you take your ELT. Use official practice materials available on the test website, such as practice tests, sample questions, and study guides, or consider enrolling in an ELT preparation course.
Practice the test sections individually to find out where your strengths are and which skills you need to develop further.
4. Take the test
If you’re taking your ELT at a test center, make sure you arrive at the test center well before the scheduled time and have all the necessary documents. This is likely to include a valid passport or driving license, but check with your test provider so that you know exactly what you need.
If you’re taking your test online, make sure you have access to a working computer, webcam, speaker, microphone, strong internet connection, and are located in a quiet and well-lit space.
5. Receive your results
The amount of time it takes to receive your test results will depend on your test provider, with results taking anywhere between 48 hours to 14 days to arrive. Once you have these results, be prepared to submit them off to your university or visa authority.
If needed, you might also be able to request that your test scores be sent directly to universities or visa offices by your test provider
ELT scoring
Because scoring is so unique from one test provider to the next, it can be hard to convert or compare results from different tests.
You can’t transfer your score from one test to another. For instance, if your university requires an IELTS score, you can't take the TOEFL test and then convert your score to meet the IELTS requirement.
Many European students will already know the CEFR grading system. This system measures language skills using letters and numbers. Beginners are at the A1 level, while advanced English learners are at the C2 level. Generally, international students need to achieve a minimum level of B2 in order to study abroad.
Below is a rough guide of how common ELT scores compare:
| Level | CEFR | TOEFL | IELTS | PTE | Cambridge English Exams | Duolingo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | A1 | 2.0-2.5 | 10-29 | 100-120 | ||
| Elementary | A2 | 3.0-3.5 | 30-42 | 121-140 | 10-55 | |
| Intermediate | B1 | 42-71 | 4.0-4.5 | 43-58 | 141-160 | 60-95 |
| Upper intermediate | B2 | 72-94 | 5.0-6.5 | 59-75 | 161-180 | 100-125 |
| Advanced | C1 | 95-113 | 7.0-8.0 | 76-84 | 181-200 | 130-150 |
| Proficient | C2 | 114-120 | 8.5-9.0 | 85-90 | 201-230 | 155-160 |
ELT waivers: Who is eligible?
In some cases, you might be eligible for an ELT waiver and won’t need to take a proficiency test.
Waivers are usually granted if:
You have lived or worked in a country where English is a primary language
You completed previous education in a country (like the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand) or at a university where English was the main language of instruction for the majority of your programs
You are currently studying or have studied in an English-speaking country for at least one academic year
Remember to check with the university you're applying to for specific waiver policies.
How to get ELT support
If you’re feeling nervous or unsure about taking an ELT, there are a number of resources available to support you and help you prepare:
- Preparation courses
If you want to familiarize yourself with the test formats and improve on the key skills, consider taking a preparation course. These are provided by many universities, online platforms and institutions with the option to dedicate around 10-15 hours a week to refine your knowledge. Depending on the provider and type of ELT that you are preparing for, this could cost you up to $300 USD.
- Practice tests
Most ELT test providers offer free or paid practice tests on their websites to help you figure out your level of knowledge, the type of questions you will answer, and the timing of the test
- Private tutors
Working with an English language tutor who specializes in ELT coaching is a great way to receive personalized support and training in the skills that you need to improve on
- Language apps
Apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and Memrise are a fun way to practice your basic language skills and offer self-paced lessons so that you can learn on your own schedule.
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