If you’ve come to this article because you’re thinking about taking an international English exam, you’re in the right place. Choosing the right English exam from among the most popular ones can be the key to success.Â
Therefore, you should pay attention to the characteristics of each test. You need to analyze factors such as the grading system and the academic or professional focus. In addition, you should verify the validity of the exam at the institution you wish to enter, among other things.
It’s important to keep in mind that each exam may work better for certain purposes. For example, if your personal goal is to study at a prestigious Ivy League institution, the exams of choice are the IELTS and the TOEFL with an academic focus. You might think that there are only two most popular English exams, but that’s not the case.Â
The belief that the TOEFL is the best English exam for studying in the United States has been outdated. The IELTS Academic exam is just as effective, as demonstrated by its acceptance and prestige among top American universities.
If you want to emigrate to work and study at a non-university level, you should take one of the most popular international English exams with a general focus. This measures your English language proficiency in a practical, everyday context.
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What are the most popular international English exams and their advantages?
The most popular international English exams are: IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC and those of Cambridge KET, PET, FCE, CAE, and CPE. However, the first two are the most common worldwide. This is due to the large number of educational institutions that endorse them, both in English-speaking countries and in countries where other languages ​​are spoken.Â
Similarly, the success of these exams is evident in the fact that many multinational companies place great importance on them in their recruitment processes. Therefore, a good result on one of these tests benefits you not only in your education but also professionally. Thus, the most popular English exams can help you on whatever path you choose.
Characteristics of each of the international English exams
IELTS
The test assesses people’s English language skills according to four components: Listening, Reading, Writing and SpeakingEach of these modules yields an individual result that is then used to calculate an overall score. All modules are equally important and measure the test-taker’s level in each language skill. Undoubtedly, this is one of the most popular English exams worldwide.
Each session of the exam is scored on a scale of 1 to 9. 1 represents the lowest level of language proficiency, and 9 represents the highest. The IELTS is valid for two years and can be taken in virtually any country in the world through the British Council’s IELTS. Of the most popular English exams, this test is the most widely recognized globally, thanks to the large number of  organizations and countries that accept it.
TOEFL
This is the most prestigious American test, widely accepted in leading centers of academic excellence. Developed by the Center for Applied Linguistics in Washington, D.C., the test also assesses the four core skills of listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
Currently, the TOEFL has two formats depending on the testing method. These are: the TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based TOEFL) and the TOEFL PBT. The iBT is administered at an accredited testing center using a computer. This method is the most widely used today. The maximum possible score is 120. The TOEFL PBT is administered in the traditional paper-based format. The TOEFL certification is valid for two years. This will help you understand why the TOEFL is one of the most popular English exams.
TOEIC
The Test of English for International Communication measures your English proficiency level in a work and professional context. A maximum score of 990 points is possible, equivalent to a C1 level. Like the previous exams, it is also valid for only two years.
It is highly valued by companies, multinational organizations, and international and governmental bodies worldwide. Many airlines favor this exam and use it to measure their staff’s English proficiency. It is also widely used in recruitment processes in these sectors. It is not among the most popular international English exams, or at least, it’s not as widely known.
Cambridge KET, PET, FCE, CAE and CPE
These English exams have the unique feature that the certification obtained is valid for life. This makes them quite attractive for people seeking an official, non-expiring certification. They are highly valued by English language schools and will enhance your CV internationally.
They award several levels of English language proficiency, classified as follows:
- KET (Key English Test): This is the most basic level that can be certified and is equivalent to an A2 level.Â
- PET (Preliminary English Test): This exam can certify a B1 level.Â
- FCE (First Certificate in English): This English test format can certify a B2 level if you score at least 160 points. If you score lower, it will validate a B1 level. You can reach a C1 level if you score 180 out of a maximum of 190.Â
- CAE (Certificate in Advanced English): By scoring at least 180 points, you can certify at a C1 level. With less than 180, you certify at a B2 level, and with more than 200, you achieve a C2 level.
- CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English): This format is used to certify a complete level of proficiency in the English language. In other words, it is the highest level that can be achieved. A score of 200 certifies level C2, and a score below 200 certifies level C1.
Equivalencies between the most well-known international English exams
While the results of these exams cannot be directly compared, we can use the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) as a reference. This is the organization responsible for establishing international standards for defining language skills. It is a reference used worldwide.
| Exam / Level | A1 | A2 | B1 | B2 | C1 | C2 |
| IELTS | – | – | 4.0-5.0 | 5.5-6.5 | 7.0-8.0 | 8.5-9.0 |
| TOEFL | – | – | 42-71 | 71-94 | 95-120 | 115-120 |
| TOEIC | 120-234 | 235-549 | 550-784 | 785-944 | 945-990 | – |
| KET (Key) | 100-119 | 120-139 | 140-150 | – | – | – |
| PET (Preliminary) | – | 120-139 | 140-159 | 160-170 | – | – |
| FCE (First) | – | – | 140-159 | 160-179 | 180-190 | – |
| CAE (Advanced) | – | – | – | 160-179 | 180-199 | 200-210 |
| CPE (Proficiency) | – | – | – | – | 180-199 | 200-230 |
How do I choose the right test according to my purposes?
The IELTS: an exam for those looking to study abroad
The IELTS, among the most popular international English exams, is the quintessential British test. However, its prestige and acceptance are not limited to the United Kingdom. In countries such as the United States, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, it is endorsed by leading institutions.
The format IELTS Academic It is an official test accepted by the best institutions in English-speaking countries. This explains why it is currently the most widely used test among those who want to emigrate for educational purposes.Â
I want to study at a university in the United States or Canada.
The IELTS is the most widely recognized international English exam, accepted by numerous organizations and countries, allowing you to experience a greater range of cultures. The top 50 universities in the United States and Canada endorse IELTS in Colombia. An official English certification is crucial for accessing higher education in North America. The two most popular academic English exams for achieving this goal are the IELTS and the TOEFL.Â
The IELTS for the United States It is synonymous with trust in more than 4,300 institutions in this country. For this reason, it is used in the admissions processes for students from non-English-speaking countries at top universities, including those in the prestigious Ivy League. IELTS has earned its worldwide recognition by maintaining high standards of quality since 1989. You can keep this in mind when choosing which English exams are right for you.
My goal is to work and study in the UK, Australia, or New Zealand.
Both in the United Kingdom and in Australia and New Zealand IELTS is the leading brand among English language exams and certifications. Major institutions in these countries recognize the test’s high quality standards and reliability. Whether you need it for admission to an educational institution or for employment, IELTS is the test you should take.
In these countries, intercultural competence, transdisciplinarity, workload management, and social intelligence contribute to very high standards in both education and employment. Language learning allows you to develop multiculturally and equips you with skills for the future. When you master English and demonstrate this with one of the most widely recognized English exams, you gain a competitive edge over many other applicants.
My dream job is at a multinational company
The TOEIC, IELTS, and TOEFL are among the most popular and highly regarded English language exams for companies recruiting multicultural talent. The components of tests like the IELTS are recognized by companies for their ability to identify the true level of proficiency in the language of their applicants. The speaking section of the exam provides the necessary level of familiarity to assess your ability to speak the foreign language.
Therefore, to be more competitive in the global workforce, you need more than just the skills that will make you stand out. You also need to certify those skills, and today, there’s no better proof than the IELTS. As you know, it’s one of the most widely recognized international English exams. This is evident in the level of reliability it inspires in thousands of international organizations.
I was born for international business
Global markets are increasingly strengthening their constant exchange of goods and services. This increases the need for bilingual or multilingual staff to conduct business and help organizations integrate into new markets. In this context, companies are much less likely to dismiss an employee who is fluent in English.
Likewise, it is proven that the demand for a bilingual workforce is increasing. A test like the IELTS can focus on both the academic and professional aspects, as well as a general practical framework. This allows candidates to reliably demonstrate their abilities to potential employers.
I simply want to know my level of English
If you simply want to test your English level with an official exam, and also familiarize yourself with this type of test, then Cambridge exams are for you. As we mentioned earlier, these certifications don’t expire and can be obtained from very basic levels of English. This is based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages ​​(CEFR). Remember to also consider the other English exams already mentioned.
However, the best thing you can do to familiarize yourself with standardized English tests like IELTS is to consult the we you will have access to a large amount of free preparation materials This will allow you to learn everything about the modules that are assessed. In addition, you can experience how the exam is conducted through  free practice tests. You can also read testimonials from people who have already taken it. Â
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How to prepare to perform well in the IELTS
The IELTS is an exam you should prepare for several months in advance. There are  various practice options available, both paid and free.
Remember that each of the four modules that make up the exam is equally important. So you must practice and study these English language skills (listening, reading, writing, and speaking) diligently. Take firm steps toward achieving your dream of advancing in another country.
We hope this guide has been helpful and has helped you decide which of the most popular international English exams is right for you. Whichever exam you choose to achieve your goals, we reiterate that you must prepare thoroughly.
