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English Proficiency Test Guide

Toefl

Test Condition:

Internet-based Test (iBT) taken at test centers.
Duration: 3 hours
Four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
The speaking section involves recording responses using a computer.

Price:

RM900

Pros:

Accepted by Most US Unis
Computer-based, for students who are more comfortable typing
Lot's of resources available online for practice

Cons:

It's more like a speed test, relatively fast and the speaking test can be quite uncomfortable due to speaking into the computer
The most expensive option on this list
Test locations can be hard to find and at random
Additional score sending cost 25 dollars each time

IELTS

Test Condition:

Paper-based or Internet-based at test centers
Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
The Speaking Test is Face to Face.

Price:

RM 865

Pros:

Accepted by Most US Unis
Computer or paper, flexibility
Academic IELTS is designed for students, while General IELTS can be taken for non-academic purposes.
Speaking is Face-To-Face

Cons:

Expensive
Face-to-face speaking tests may intimidate some students
Test Center only

Duolingo English Test (DET)

Test Condition:

Online Only
Questions become harder or easier depending on your performance.
Four Sections: Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening
Duration: 1 hour

Price:

RM 275-280

Pros:

Easier, more convinient
Cheaper
Accepted in a wide range of school
Sending results is free and unlimited
Results within 48 hours

Cons:

You might encounter your results not getting graded due to the small movements (retake available)
Home settings might cause instability in test environment
The Adaptive nature might cause difficulty in the test stability

English Proficiency Waiver

Some Universities might allow an English Test waiver if you qualify for the conditions below. Check with your university through email and website before proceeding.

Completed your secondary education (often 4 years) in an English-speaking country or at a school where English is the primary language of instruction.

IGCSE curriculum: English as a First Language

If English is your native language, some universities will waive the requirement automatically.

If you’ve taken the IGCSE (or A-levels) and achieved a certain grade in English, this might also exempt you.

Commonly required scores include:
-IGCSE English (Second Language): Some universities may accept this, but they might require a higher grade.
-IGCSE English (First Language): Grade C or higher
-A-level English: Grade C or better.
SAT or ACT (Some accept it)
Completed a degree in an English-speaking country previously