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Which Exam?

A Student's Guide to English Language Exams

Why should you take an exam?

Gaining an English language qualification will:

  • Add value to your studies.
  • Prove to yourself and others - such as employers, sponsors and University Admissions Tutors - that you are committed to achieving high standards in your studies.

Which exam should you take?

Choose the exam you will take very carefully. There is a wide range of exams and tests offered by different exam boards. Some exams are more widely recognised than others.

A good exam will:

  • Test you on all of the four skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking.
  • Be recognised across Britain (and the world)
  • Be available in many different countries
  • Be accepted by universities as fulfilling their English language entry requirements.

Which exam should you take if you want to study at a British University?

If you want to study at a British university, before you take any exam you should check which exams the university and the department accept. Some academic courses require a higher level of English than others. The most widely accepted tests are:

  • IELTS
  • TOEFL
  • CAE - Cambridge Advanced Exam

What exams are available at Cardiff University?

Cardiff University is a British Council IELTS test centre. IELTS exam preparation classes are offered by Cardiff University as part of the full-day course in the Bridge Programme.
We can assist you in applying to take Cambridge Board Examinations.

For further information on English language qualifications, see A Guide to English Language Tests.