ENGLISH PROFICIENCY

PREPARE FOR TESTS

To become an international student in Canada or the US, you will typically need to demonstrate a certain English proficiency level. The exact level required will depend on the specific school and program you are applying to and the country’s immigration requirements.
Generally, universities and colleges in Canada and the US will require applicants to submit English language proficiency test scores. The most commonly accepted tests are the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
The minimum score required on these tests will vary depending on the school and program. Some programs may require a minimum score of 6.5 on the IELTS, while others may require a score of 100 on the TOEFL.
It’s essential to check the language requirements of the specific school and program you are interested in applying to. This information should be available on the school’s website or by contacting the admissions office.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT ONE FOR YOU

Several English proficiency tests are commonly required for university admission in English-speaking countries. Here’s an overview of some of the most widely accepted tests:

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): The TOEFL is a standardized test that measures English language proficiency for non-native speakers. It assesses skills in reading, listening, speaking, and writing. The test is administered online and in person and is accepted by over 11,000 universities and other institutions worldwide.
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS): The IELTS is another widely accepted English language proficiency test. It assesses skills in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Depending on the test center, it is administered in person and on paper or a computer. The IELTS is accepted by over 10,000 universities and other institutions worldwide.
• Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): The PTE Academic is a computer-based English language proficiency test that assesses skills in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. It is accepted by over 6,000 universities and other institutions worldwide.
• Cambridge English Qualifications: Cambridge English offers a range of English language proficiency tests, including Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) and Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE).

These tests assess reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills and are accepted by many universities and other institutions worldwide.
The required minimum scores for these tests vary depending on the university and program, so it’s essential to check the specific requirements of each institution to which you’re interested in applying. Additionally, some universities may offer their English language proficiency tests or waive the language requirement for certain applicants. So, checking with the university’s admissions office for specific information is essential.

Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) is another English language proficiency test commonly used for university admission in Canada. The test assesses English language proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing and is recognized by many Canadian universities and colleges.
CELPIP has two types of tests: CELPIP-General and CELPIP-General LS. CELPIP-General measures English language proficiency for general purposes, while CELPIP-General LS measures English language proficiency for Canadian citizenship and immigration purposes.
The minimum score required on the CELPIP will vary depending on the university and program, so it’s essential to check the specific requirements of each institution you’re interested in applying to. Some universities may also accept multiple types of English language proficiency tests, so checking with the admissions office for specific information on which tests are accepted is essential.

USE THESE TIPS TO PREPARE FOR TESTS

Preparing for English proficiency tests can be challenging, but several strategies can help you perform well on test days. Here are some tips to help you prepare for these tests:

• Familiarize yourself with the format: Take some time to review the test format and instructions so you know what to expect on test day. It will help you feel more confident and reduce test-day anxiety.
• Practice regularly: Practice regularly to improve your English language skills. Use online resources, textbooks, and study guides to enhance your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Consider taking practice tests to simulate test-day conditions.
• Set a study schedule: Create a study schedule that works for you and sticks to it. It will help you stay on track and make progress toward your goals.
• Seek feedback from teachers or tutors on your language proficiency. They can guide areas to focus on and help you develop a personalized study plan.
• Improve your test-taking skills: Improving your test-taking skills can help you perform better on test days. Practice time management read instructions carefully, and develop test-taking strategies to help you answer questions efficiently.
• Take care of yourself: Finally, take care of yourself. Get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly to reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.

These tips can improve your English language proficiency and make you feel more confident on test day.

YOU’VE MADE IT! NOW IMPROVE YOUR ENGLISH SKILLS

Imagine, you have been accepted into one of the universities. That’s a success! But do not stop to improve your English skills as the first year is the most important and difficult. As an international student, there are several things you can do to improve your English language skills:

• Attend language classes: Consider enrolling in English language classes offered by your school or community. It will allow you to improve your English language skills in a structured and supportive environment.
• Practice speaking and listening: One of the most effective ways to improve your English language skills is to practice speaking and listening. Try to converse with native speakers or other non-native speakers of English. You can also listen to podcasts, watch movies or TV shows, and listen to music in English.
• Read in English: Reading is a great way to improve your vocabulary and comprehension skills. Start with books or articles appropriate for your English proficiency and gradually work your way up to more challenging materials.
• Write in English: Writing is a great way to practice grammar and sentence structure. Try writing short stories, essays, or even journal entries in English.
• Use language-learning apps: Many language-learning apps can help you improve your English skills. Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone are some popular options.

Remember, improving your English language skills takes time and effort, but you can make significant progress with practice and dedication.

Many online English language courses are available to help students improve their language skills. Here are some options:

• Duolingo: Duolingo is a popular language-learning app that offers a range of courses in English as a Second Language (ESL). The app provides reading, writing, listening, and speaking lessons and uses a gamified approach to make learning fun and engaging.
• Babbel: Babbel is another language-learning app that offers courses in ESL. The app offers interactive lessons in grammar, vocabulary, and conversation skills and provides instant feedback on your progress.
• Rosetta Stone: Rosetta Stone is a language-learning software that offers courses in ESL. The software uses an immersive approach to learning, with lessons that focus on grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary.
• Coursera: Coursera offers a range of ESL courses from universities worldwide. These courses cover various topics, from grammar and vocabulary to academic writing and business communication.
• edX: edX is another online learning platform that offers ESL courses from top universities worldwide. These courses cover various topics, from basic grammar to advanced writing and speaking skills.
• English Central: English Central is an online platform that offers courses in ESL. The platform offers lessons in reading, listening, speaking, and pronunciation, and uses video-based content to provide an immersive learning experience.

IMPROVE YOUR WRITTEN ENGLISH AS WELL

Several applications and tools can help students write essays more effectively. Here are some options:

• Grammarly: Grammarly is a writing tool that checks for grammar and spelling errors and provides suggestions for improving sentence structure and style. It can be used as a browser extension or as a standalone application.
• Hemingway: Hemingway is a writing tool that helps students improve the clarity and readability of their writing. The tool highlights complex sentences, suggests simpler alternatives, and provides readability scores.
• Google Docs: Google Docs is a cloud-based word-processing program that allows students to collaborate on documents in real time. It also provides features like automatic saving, commenting, and revision history.
• Evernote: Evernote is a note-taking application that allows students to organize their research and notes. It also offers a range of features like web clipping, document scanning, and cross-device syncing.
• Zotero: Zotero is a reference management tool that helps students collect, organize, and cite their research. It can be used to create bibliographies and keep track of sources across multiple projects.
  By using these applications and tools, students can streamline their essay writing process, improve the quality of their writing, and save time in the research and citation process.