FAQs

LanguageCert Test of English FAQ

What is the LanguageCert Test of English (LTE)?

The LanguageCert Test of English (LTE) is a suite of general English tests designed to assess language proficiency aligned to the descriptions of the 6 levels of language proficiency (A1-C2) as set out in the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

Who is the LTE qualification intended for?

LanguageCert Test of English (LTE) qualification is intended for:

Non-native speakers of English needing to acquire an internationally recognised certification that proves their English language proficiency:
o provide current or potential employers with proof of English language level
o master the English language and monitor progress,
o undertake a course of study at an English-speaking university or college and require evidence of English proficiency

Employers who:
o need to identify the English language level of applicants
o wish to benchmark the English language level required for different positions within their workforce
o require an internationally recognised certification as part of their hiring process

Universities and Colleges that:
o need to establish the English language level of students to evaluate their ability to follow their chosen course of study
o wish to offer students a test which will provide them with an internationally recognised certification proving their English language level.

Which skills are tested?

LanguageCert Test of English (LTE) assesses Listening, Reading and Writing skills as well the awareness of lexico-grammatical structures.

What does the Listening component assess?

The test taker is required to listen to a range of spoken material, including spoken utterances, dialogues, longer conversations, interviews, podcasts or talks. The listening component assesses the test taker’s ability to listen for a wide variety of real-life or work-related purposes. In the listening comprehension tasks, the test taker might be asked to listen for the gist of a whole extract, for a specific detail or for the speaker’s opinion.

What does the Reading component assess?

The test taker is required to read short and long authentic texts on general or work-related topics. The reading component assesses the test taker’s ability to understand the main idea of a text or look for specific information or line of argument. The test taker’s understanding and awareness of language use is also assessed with various items focusing on vocabulary and lexico-grammatical knowledge in the Reading test.

What does the Writing component assess?

Assesses writing skills and the command of English grammar and vocabulary reliably and quickly. Test-takers must write a short communicative message of 60 – 100 words. The task tests the ability to produce a short piece of writing which successfully communicates the required information.

Test-takers must also produce an extended piece of writing in the form of a brief report, article or review of 200 – 250 words. The task tests the test-taker’s ability to produce extended writing. The context is a topical issue or workplace matter. The tasks allow test-takers to use advanced level grammar and vocabulary resource and show that they can organize coherently an extended piece of writing.

Is the LTE qualification mapped to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR)?

The LTE qualification has been developed according to the CEFR descriptors of language competency for each CEFR level (A1-C2). For more detail, please refer to the LanguageCert Test of English Qualification Handbook.

Are there any entry requirements?

There are no entry requirements to taking LanguageCert Test of English (LTE).

How many tests are there and in which formats?

The LTE qualification comprises three different tests and is available in three formats:

LTE A1-B1 Listening & Reading test is taken in paper-based format.

LTE A1-C2 Listening & Reading test is available in paper-based, computer-based format or as an Online exam with remote, live invigilation.

LTE A1-C2 Writing test is available in paper-based and computer-based format and is taken at an approved LanguageCert test centre.

What is the LTE A1-C2 computer-adaptive test?

The LTE A1-C2 computer-adaptive test lasts approximately 60 minutes. The content of each individual test is responsive to your language proficiency and adapts accordingly.

The test adjusts its order and degree of difficulty in real time based on your responses to previous questions. This ensures the accurate measurement of your language competence regardless of proficiency level. Each test is individualised to the ability of the candidate taking the test.

Which format should I choose?

As both formats lead to the same certificate, you should choose the format that best suits you.

Who are the LTE paper-based tests for?

The LTE A1-B1 paper-based test is suitable for test takers who need proof of a lower level competency in English, or for absolute beginners who need to monitor their progress as they go.

The LTE A1-C2 paper-based test is most suitable for test takers who aim for B2 level and above.

What is the test duration?

LanguageCert Test of English (LTE) Listening & Reading:

LTE A1-B1 paper-based test: approx. 70 minutes in total (Listening: approx. 30 minutes, Reading: 40 minutes)

LTE A1-C2 paper-based test: approx. 120 minutes in total (Listening: approx. 50 minutes, Reading: 70 minutes)

LTE A1-C2 computer-adaptive: 60-90 minutes in total depending on the candidate’s language level. For lower level students, the test may take slightly less time.

LanguageCert Test of English (LTE) Writing:

LTE A1-C2 paper-based test: 60 minutes in total (Task 1: 60 - 100 words, Task 2: 200 - 250 words)

LTE A1-C2 computer-based test: 60 minutes in total (Task 1: 60 - 100 words, Task 2: 200 - 250 words)

What score do I need to ‘pass’ the test?

There is no definite score to be attained in order to pass. All candidates receive a ‘Statement of Results’ and a Certificate which state the overall level achieved (e.g. ‘Level 1/CEFR B2’ or ‘Level 3/CEFR C2’). The Statement of Results displays the score achieved for each skill (Listening & Reading) which can be translated via the scaled scores table to an approximate CEFR level.

What can I use my LanguageCert Test of English (LTE) qualification for?

LanguageCert Test of English (LTE) qualifications are multi-purpose, they can be used internationally as school curriculum requirements, university entry and/or graduation, employment and career progression.

Can I fail the test?

No, LTE tests are not pass or fail tests. Test results indicate proficiency levels in Listening & Reading and Writing in English.

Do I have to follow a certain course book?

LanguageCert Test of English (LTE) qualifications assess your English language proficiency, not whether you are familiar with a specific exam format. For a list of books that can be used to better prepare for LTE qualifications, please click here.

What is the minimum/maximum age limit for candidates?

LTE exams are recommended for candidates aged 16+.

When and where can the exams be taken?

Test Centres set their own schedules for the exam sessions. Please contact your nearest Test Centre for information on test dates.

You can book and take your LTE A1-C2 Listening & Reading exam online with remote, live invigilation whenever you want.

Does the Test Centre get involved in assessment?

Test Centres do not get involved in the assessment. All marking is carried out by LanguageCert.

Are LTE qualifications recognised?

To find out which countries recognise LTE qualifications, click here.

How long does it take to receive LTE exams results?

Results are released in 2 business days.

How long does it take to receive LTE certificates?

Certificate of Achievement & e-certificate are available in 2 business days

Results are sent to you by email or through your Test Centre. Preliminary results for LTE A1-C2 Listening & Reading computer-based adaptive test are released immediately

Digital Badge is available on the same day as results and is sent via email

Hard-copy certificates are issued shortly after results are released and sent either directly to you or to your Test Centre

Who will inform me of my results?

LanguageCert or the Test Centre will inform you of your results depending on where you take the exam. If you take an Online exam with remote, live invigilation, LanguageCert will inform you of your results.

Will my LTE certificate be sent directly to me?

Certificates may be sent directly to you or to your Test Centre.

How long are the certificates valid for?

LTE certificates do not expire. However, it is recommended you check whether there are any specific requirements from receiving organisations.

Who do I contact if I lose my certificate?

Either contact the Test Centre you took your exam at or LanguageCert if you took your exam online with remote, live invigilation.

How can I check the validity of my LTE certificate?

Use the Online Certificate Verification Service to check the validity of your LTE certificate.

Is LanguageCert Test of English (LTE) similar to LanguageCert International ESOL exams?

There are certainly a number of differences such as test structure and duration, but the main differences are as follows:

LTE is a single multi-level exam which assesses language proficiency across six levels (A1-C2) while LanguageCert International ESOL qualifications only test one level at a time (e.g. B2).

LTE is one exam which assesses the candidate’s Listening & Reading level, while all LanguageCert International ESOL exams consist of 2 exams (Written and Spoken) which assess all four language skills (Listening, Reading, Writing & Speaking).

The LTE qualification comprises three different tests (LTE A1-B1 paper-based, LTE A1-C2 computer-based and LTE A1-C2 computer-based adaptive test). All LanguageCert International ESOL qualifications comprise only one test.

There is no pass mark for LTE. LanguageCert International ESOL requires an overall score of at least 50% in both Written and Spoken exam for candidates to pass.

LTE assesses English for general and specific purposes (e.g. for work), while all LanguageCert International ESOL exams assess everyday practical English.