MORE and more international students are taking a Cambridge English exam instead of IELTS or TOEFL to get into an English-speaking university or job. Nicola Johnson, development manager of Cambridge English Language Assessment, explains what the exam is and why students should choose it.
INTERNATIONAL student numbers around the world have tripled in the last two decades, creating a huge demand for high quality English language testing. At Cambridge English Language Assessment, we develop the Cambridge English: Advanced exam, which is recognised by over 4,000 institutions worldwide as proof of the English language skills needed for study or workplace performance. This includes many universities around the world. What are the benefits of taking this exam for entrance into higher education at English speaking universities?
A huge demand
We’ve seen an increasing number of international students using Cambridge English exams when applying to UK universities. Earlier in the year, figures showed that the number of international students using Cambridge English: Advanced and Cambridge English: Proficiency when applying to UK universities had increased by over 300 per cent since 2011. This figure reflects the qualifications’ quality, security and growing global recognition.
What is the Cambridge English: Advanced test?
Cambridge English: Advanced is an in-depth analysis of the four key language skills (reading, writing, speaking and listening). It also covers the use of English to help generate an accurate assessment of language ability. These skills are really useful not just in the classroom but in social situations too, which is a big part of having a positive experience of studying in a new country.
What to do next?
If you’re planning on studying in an English-speaking country and need to take an English exam, the first thing to do is contact the institution you are applying to find out which exam you’ll need. You’ll probably find that they accept Cambridge English: Advanced. The next thing to do is find a test centre near you where you can take the exam. You’ll be glad to hear that Cambridge English exams are really accessible and are available in 2,800 test centres around the world.
Where can my Cambridge English exam take me?
A Cambridge English exam can open up many other opportunities beyond university. Cambridge English exams are used around the world as proof of English language ability. In addition to academic recognition, you’ll see our exams are accepted by a wide range of other organisations, including employers and immigration and citizenship institutions. In total 15,000 organisations now recognise the Cambridge English suite of exams, which is an increase of 36% since 2011.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, the best piece of advice I can give you is to enjoy your study experience! Studying overseas is a really worthwhile experience that will open up many opportunities for you.
For more information visit www.cambridgeenglish.org
Nicola Johnson is Development Manager at Cambridge English Language Assessment – provider of the world’s leading range of qualifications for learners and teachers of English.
Graphics by Cambridge English Language Assessment. Photography: King's College Chapel, Cambridge by Treye Rice
