TOEFL


TOEFL, or Test of English as a Foreign Language (Test of English as a foreign language"), designed to test knowledge of academic English. Exam is very popular among colleges and universities in the United States and Canada, although some universities in Europe and Asia also require this certificate for admission. TOEFL is also recognized by many foreign companies, international organizations and government agencies. The exam lasts approximately three hours and includes the following sections: reading, writing, listening, and conversation practice. TOEFL certificate is valid for two years.

IELTS


The acronym IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System (international system of testing English language"). Unlike the TOEFL, the IELTS exam, there are two modules in IELTS: academic and General. Academic module pass those who are planning to pursue higher education abroad. General module is suitable for those who want to use the language in everyday life, for work and for obtaining a residence permit in some English-speaking countries. In order to successfully pass IELTS, you must complete tasks which test all language skills: reading, writing, listening and speaking. In General, the exam lasts approximately three hours, with 2 hours and 45 minutes given to reading, writing tasks and listening exercises and 15 minutes on the test speech.

Cambridge exams


Another kind of international exams of English as a foreign language – Cambridge examinations, which include tests such as FCE or First Certificate in English (First Cambridge certificate), CAE or Certificate in Advanced English ("Cambridge certificate of advanced level), CPE or Certificate of Proficiency in English ("Cambridge certificate of maximum level of knowledge of the English language").

FCE is designed for those who speak English not lower than intermediate and may communicate freely in the language, watch movies and read literature in the original. Certificate CAE confirms an advanced level of knowledge of the English language and may be required for employment and for admission to some universities in English-speaking countries. CPE indicates that you speak English at native-level. This test requires serious preparation and knowledge of English to perfection.