Proficiency or IELTS exam?

Question

A friend of mine who lives in Greece has the option of choosing one of these in his pursuit to study Physiology and Physical therapy at an English College. He has attempted the Proficiency once (and failed) and he has been advised that the IELTS is easier to pass. Is this true? If someone could outline the basic differences I would much appreciate that and any advice.

Tanit · Accepted Answer

Hi,

Anonymoushe has been advised that the IELTS is easier to pass. Is this true?

In a way, it is, because you don't failthe IELTS

... you simply get a mark on a nine-point scale:

There is no pass or fail in IELTS. Candidates are graded on their performance, using scores from 1 to 9 for each part of the test – Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. The results from the four parts then produce an Overall Band Score.

This unique 9-band system measures scores in a consistent manner – wherever and whenever the test is taken. It is internationally recognised and understood, giving you a reliable international currency. IELTS scores are valid for two years.

The IELTS 9-band scale

Each band corresponds to a level of English competence. All parts of the test and the Overall Band Score can be reported in whole and half bands, eg 6.5, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0.
Band 9: Expert user: has fully operational command of the language: appropriate, accurate and fluent with complete understanding.

Band 8: Very good user: has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriacies. Misunderstandings may occur in unfamiliar situations. Handles complex detailed argumentation well.

Band 7: Good user: has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally handles complex language well and understands detailed reasoning.

Band 6: Competent user: has generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations.

Band 5: Modest user: has partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations, though is likely to make many mistakes. Should be able to handle basic communication in own field.

Band 4: Limited user: basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in understanding and expression. Is not able to use complex language.

Band 3: Extremely limited user: conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations. Frequent breakdowns in communication occur.

Band 2: Intermittent user: no real communication is possible except for the most basic information using isolated words or short formulae in familiar situations and to meet immediate needs. Has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English.

Band 1: Non-user: essentially has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few isolated words.

Band 0: Did not attempt the test: No assessable information provided.

(From the http://www.ielts.org/institutions/test_format_and_results/ielts_band_scores.aspx)

Which score does your friend need?

I've taken the CPE but not the IELTS.

I know there are two basic differences:
1. the CPE tests one's knowledge of general English; the IELTS usually focuses on academic English (although a general English version exists);
2. the CPE does not expire; the IELTS is valid for two years.

Moreover, by looking at the IELTS booklet, it would say that:
1. the IELTS speaking paper is quite similar to that of the CPE;
2. the IELTS writing paper seems to be simpler (two essays, one consisting of at least 150 words and one of 250 words) than that of the CPE (two pieces of writing, not always essays, each consisting of approximately 350 words)
3. the listening& reading papers of the CPE and those of the IELTS differ in a number of aspects.

Finally, since your friend has already sat for the CPE, he knows how it works. Here he will find quick and useful information about the IELTS' format.
Detailed explanations on the IELTS papers can be found https://www.teachers.cambridgeesol.org/ts/exams/academicenglish/ielts, together with some sample papers and audio files. Tell your friend to have a look at that page.

Anonymous · Answer

I have a proficency degree (CPE) , but a friend of mine said that With CPE you can't get into a college abroad and that I need to take the IELTS exam so you can be able to.

is that true ?

Proficiency or IELTS exam?

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