FAQ

FAQ

   

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

ETS GLOBAL CUSTOM ASSESSMENT SOLUTIONS

 

ABOUT ETS GLOBAL

Is ETS a government agency or part of Princeton University?

It is neither. Educational Testing Services (ETS) is a private non-profit organisation devoted to educational measurement and research, primarily through testing. We develop and administer millions of achievement and admissions tests each year worldwide. Our headquarters are located in New Jersey, USA with offices all over the world.

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How is ETS Global related to ETS?

ETS Global is a subsidiary of ETS, the world leader in business and academic assessments.  ETS Global serves Europe, South America, Canada, China, Korea, India, the Middle East and Africa. At ETS Global, we are committed to ETS objectives of promoting educational excellence and enhancing learning.  Through our extensive network of offices and partners, we provide both a wide range of customisable ETS products and services, and a staff with extensive experience to meet the needs of our clients in various countries.

 

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Where does ETS Global have offices?

ETS Global has offices in several countries in Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia, South America and Canada. In addition, we have a vast network of partners (Country Master Distributors - CMD, and ETS Global Preferred Vendors - EPV) across all these regions. 

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AREAS OF EXPERTISE

How does ETS create its test designs?

ETS designs, develops, administers and scores more than 24 million tests annually.  In creating a test design, ETS employs the Evidence-Centered Design (ECD) model for test development. ECD, an intellectual discipline created at ETS, is defined by three components: claims, evidence, and tasks.

We can also use existing concepts of our solutions and tests to develop adapted versions by taking cultural differences into account.

 

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How are ETS Global tests administered?

Generally, ETS tests are administered in one of four ways:

  • Paper-based tests: Administered in schools or colleges under standardised conditions; answer sheets are returned to ETS Global for scoring and analysis
  • Single-purpose paper and computer-based tests: These are generally placement exams that may be administered on a semi-secure basis under the institution’s control
  • Computer-based tests: Administered at ETS Global authorised, technologically-enabled centres
  • Internet-based tests: Offered in a wide variety of testing venues; these are flexible since they do not require dedicated test workstations

 

 

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How does ETS work with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages?

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL), which aims to promote international and professional mobility, provides a common basis for describing the skills needed to reach different levels of language proficiency. It presents a reference system that is designed to establish co-relations between various tests and ability levels. This means that test takers, teachers, and people making decisions based on the results of these tests (universities, employers etc.) can use the CEFRL to compare the performance of a test taker against any test in any language.

ETS regularly carries out correlation studies between its tests and the CEFRL to ensure that reliable and precise correlations can be made over time. The most recent such study was conducted in October 2006, for such well-known tests as the TOEIC® Listening and Reading test, the TOEIC® Speaking and Writing tests, the TOEFL® iBT, and the TOEIC Bridge™ test. Read more here….

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OUR TESTS

Are ETS Global tests recognised?

ETS Global offers tests that are used worldwide.  These tests follow stringent guidelines to ensure a high level of quality and fairness.  They are internationally recognised as valid and reliable tests that can accurately measure and certify competence. Numerous companies, academic institutions, professional bodies and licensing and certification agencies all over the world accept our tests scores.

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How many tests does ETS Global offer?

ETS Global offers several assessments: language as well as other assessments. A complete list and description of our assessments is available here.

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Does ETS Global offer language courses to prepare for its tests?

ETS Global does not offer any official language course. What we do recommend is sufficient preparation for the test you intend to take. 

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How does ETS come up with the test questions?

The knowledge areas and skills that a test covers are defined by the educators and professionals who use the test scores. For example, English-language teachers help us define the content for an English achievement test. In most cases these same professionals also help us write the actual test questions.

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How does ETS set the pass / fail point for a test?

We do not. Passing scores are usually established by the companies, universities or state agencies that use these test scores.

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Don't some really good test-takers do poorly on standardised tests?

There are a small number of test-takers whose standardised test scores are inconsistent with their overall skills and competencies. Such disparities are one of the reasons why we believe that no single factor should be used as the sole criterion for any important orientation decision. No single test can give a complete picture of an individual, and we urge score users to view test scores as simply one of the many pieces of information available about an individual.

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How long are ETS test scores valid for?

ETS test scores are valid as long as the level of English proficiency of the examinee remains the same. This proficiency can, however, improve or decline over time. For this reason, the more recent the score, the more likely it is to be a valid indication of the examinee’s proficiency.  ETS Global recommends that a test score be considered valid for up to 2 years.

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Does ETS Global provide special facilities for test-takers with disabilities?

The policy of ETS Global is to prescribe no single testing alternative for individuals with disabilities. ETS representatives should negotiate with individuals with disabilities to provide suitable alternatives that will accommodate their needs and, at the same time, maintain the integrity of the testing process. These alternatives to standardised testing procedures are described in the Policy for Administering the TOEIC® Test to Individuals with Disabilities  document.  There is no additional cost for special accommodations.

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Can I register for test sessions online?

Yes, you can now register for ETS Global test sessions online. Visit our online store to find a test centre near you.

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THE TOEIC LISTENING AND READING TEST

What is the TOEIC Listening and Reading test?

The TOEIC (TEST OF ENGLISH FOR INTERNATIONAL COMMUNICATION™) Listening and Reading test measures proficiency in English reading and listening skills, at intermediate to advanced levels.  It is an objective assessment of competence in business English.

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What is the format of the new TOEIC Listening and Reading test?

The new TOEIC Listening and Reading test is paper-based, lasts for approximately 2 hours and comprises questions in listening comprehension and reading. Read more here, including the format of the redesigned test.

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Are questions taken from specific contexts?

The TOEIC Listening and Reading test questions are drawn from a variety of real-world settings and situations in the workplace. These include not just meetings and conference calls, but finance and budgeting, human resources, and other similar business contexts. 

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How is the test scored?

Scores on the TOEIC Listening and Reading test are determined by the number of correct answers. Each section is scored separately on a scale ranging from 5 to 495 points.The number of correct responses on each section is converted to a scale score.

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Can test takers fail the test?

The TOEIC Listening and Reading test is not a pass or fail test. It simply enables you to demonstrate your current English language skills, and the score indicates what level your English is at.

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How long are test scores valid for?

The TOEIC Listening and Reading scores are valid as long as the level of English proficiency of the examinee remains the same. This proficiency can, however, improve or decline over time. For this reason, the more recent the score, the more likely it is to be a valid indication of the examinee’s proficiency. ETS Global recommends that a test score be considered valid for up to 2 years.

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Does ETS offer any preparation or practice material for this test?

ETS Global offers you a selection of preparation books for the TOEIC tests, which comprise preparation tactics, official test items, example questions, and mini-tests to help you practise and prepare for the TOEIC test. To buy these prep books, visit our online store.

 

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How much does the test cost?

To find out how much the TOEIC Listening and Reading test costs in your country, please visit our online store or contact your local ETS Global office or partner.

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Where can I register for the test?

To register for a test session, or to organise a test session in-house (if you are an educational or corporate organisation), visit our online store.

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THE TOEIC SPEAKING AND WRITING TESTS

What are the TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests?

The TOEIC (TEST OF ENGLISH FOR INTERNATIONAL COMMUNICATION™) Speaking and Writing tests are Internet-based tests that measure a person's ability to speak and write in English in the workplace, using key expressions and common, everyday vocabulary. It measures proficiency in business English, at intermediate to advanced levels.

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What is the format of the test?

The two sections of the test (speaking and writing) are independent of each other and test-takers receive a separate score for each. The Speaking test measures skills such as pronunciation, vocabulary and grammar, and fluency. The Writing test assesses vocabulary and grammar, as well as coherence and organisation. The tests include integrated tasks that are reflective of actual English usage in the workplace.

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Do I have to take both the TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests and the TOEIC Listening and Reading test? Or can I choose one?

Depending on your programme or job requirements, you can choose to take either the TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests or the TOEIC Listening and Reading test. The Speaking and Writing tests complement the Listening and Reading test, providing a full assessment of a person's ability to communicate in English across all four language skills.

 

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In testing all 4 communication skills, which test should I take first - TOEIC Listening and Reading or TOEIC Speaking and Writing?

You should take the test(s) that provides the desired feedback. This will depend on your programme or job requirements. For a comprehensive evaluation of an employee's English-language proficiency, the employer should consider requiring test takers to take the TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests as well as the TOEIC Listening and Reading test.

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What are the passing scores for the test?

There is no passing or failing score. The tests measure different levels of ability. The single, continuous scale enables test takers to set attainable goals and measure progress as skills improve.

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How long does it take to receive the scores?

Scores are available in approximately 3 weeks. Contact your local ETS Global office or partner for more information.

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Why are test scores valid for only two years?

The TOEIC Speaking and Writing scores are valid as long as the level of English proficiency of the examinee remains the same. This proficiency can, however, improve or decline over time. For this reason, the more recent the score, the more likely it is to be a valid indication of the examinee’s proficiency. ETS Global recommends that a test score be considered valid for up to 2 years.

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How do I prepare / practise for this test?

ETS Global offers test takers the TOEIC® Practice Online: Speaking and Writing - an online practice tool that helps students gauge and practise their speaking and writing skills. It is the official practice test for the TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests. Read more here….

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How much does the test cost?

To find out how much the TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests cost in your country, please visit our online store or contact your local ETS Global office or partner.

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How do I register for the test?

To register for a test session, or to organise a test session in-house (if you are an educational or corporate organisation), visit our online store.

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THE TOEIC BRIDGE TEST

What is the TOEIC Bridge test?

The TOEIC Bridge test measures competence in listening to and reading in English, at beginner to intermediate levels.

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What is the format of the test?

The Bridge test is a paper-and-pencil based assessment, comprising 100 multiple-choice questions in 2 sections – oral and written comprehension. It lasts less than an hour and features questions that are easier to answer than those on the TOEIC test .

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How is the Bridge test related to the TOEIC® test?

An assessment tool very similar to the TOEIC test, the Bridge test measures English proficiency in listening and reading at beginner to intermediate skill levels. The Bridge test has proved to be a good motivational tool to encourage beginners to proceed to the next level, that is, the TOEIC test.

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How much does the Bridge test cost?

To find out how much the TOEIC Bridge test costs in your country, please visit our online store or contact your local ETS Global office or partner.

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How do I register for the test?

To register for a test session, or to organise a test session in-house (if you are an educational or corporate organisation), visit our online store.

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THE TOEFL iBT

What is the TOEFL iBT?

The TOEFL® Internet-based test (iBT) tests all four language skills that are important for effective communication: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. It is a reliable and accurate measure of a student’s academic English language skills.The TOEFL iBT also emphasises integrated skills and provides better information to institutions about students' ability to communicate in an academic setting and their readiness for academic coursework.

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What is the format of the TOEFL iBT?

The TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Testing) measures four skills: listening, reading, speaking and writing. It uses integrated tasks that are more reflective of how English is used in the real world, and results in a better measure of ability to participate successfully in an academic environment.

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Which universities and colleges accept TOEFL iBT?

More than 6,000 colleges, universities, and licensing agencies in more than 90 countries accept TOEFL iBT scores, making TOEFL iBT the most accepted English-proficiency test in the world. For a list of approved score recipients, please visit the dedicated TOEFL page.

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Where can I find TOEFL iBT test centres?

The TOEFL test is offered in 180 countries around the world at:

  • institutional locations, such as colleges and universities
  • testing centres operated by Prometric, a division of Thomson Learning

Please visit the link to get a list of centre locations and dates.

In areas where access to Internet-based testing is limited, a paper-based version of the test is administered on specific dates. The TOEFL® PBT is generally offered at institutional locations such as colleges and universities as well.

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How do I get my scores?

Scores are posted online 15 business days after the test date, then mailed to you and the institutions you selected.

The registration fee that you pay includes the payment for:

  • 1 printed and 1 online score report for you
  • up to 4 official score reports that ETS will send directly to the institutions or agencies you select when you register

 

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How do I order additional score reports?

The process is easy. For a small fee, you can send score reports to as many institutions as you choose. See send Additional Score Reports.

 

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How long are the scores valid for?

ETS will report scores for 2 years after the test date.

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Can I retest for a section?

No. The entire test must be taken to receive a score.

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How soon can I repeat the test?

Candidates can register to re-take the test after 7 days from the previous attempt.

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Which computer keyboard is used for the TOEFL iBT?

QWERTY, the most common English-language keyboard is used. It takes its name from the first 6 letters at the top of the keyboard. Test takers should practise on a QWERTY keyboard before taking the TOEFL iBT.

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How much does the TOEFL iBT cost?

To find out how much the TOEFL iBT costs, please contact your local ETS Global office or partner for more information.

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How can I prepare / practise for the TOEFL iBT?

ETS offers a variety of preparation and practice materials to help students do well on the TOEFL iBT. The TOEFL® Practice Online (TPO) is an official resource to help students practise their English language skills in order to excel in the TOEFL iBT. ETS Global also offers preparation books comprising sample questions, tips, examples, etc. Visit our online store to purchase practice and preparation materials.

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Can I register online?

Online registration is the easiest method. Registration is available 3-4 months before the test date. Register early as seats fill up quickly. You can also register by mail or by phone. See registration information.

 

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What is the difference between the TOEIC and TOEFL tests?

The TOEIC and the TOEFL tests were developed by ETS to serve different purposes. Therefore, the design, content, context, and range of proficiency that each test measures are also different. The TOEFL test was created for foreign students seeking admission to undergraduate and graduate programmes in North America. The test hence is an assessment of English used in academic settings. On the other hand, the TOEIC test assesses proficiency in business English. Organisations that document employees' English proficiency and individuals who want to demonstrate their ability to use English in the global workplace take the TOEIC test.

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THE TOEFL ITP

What is the TOEFL ITP?

The TOEFL ITP (Institutional Testing Programme), derived from the paper-based TOEFL® test, is a low-tech and cost-effective method of evaluating academic English language skills. TOEFL ITP consists of previously administered TOEFL forms that can be administered by institutions onsite and simply returned to ETS for scoring.

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What is the format of the TOEFL ITP?

A paper-and-pencil test, it features 140 multiple-choice questions that evaluate the skill of test-takers in listening comprehension, reading, and structure and written expression.

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How often can I take the TOEFL ITP?

The TOEFL ITP is a test that can be used to assess your progress in language learning, hence you can take the test as many times as necessary.

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What does the TOEFL ITP cost?

To find out how much the TOEFL ITP costs in your country, please visit our online store or contact your local ETS Global office or partner for more information.

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Where can I buy the TOEFL ITP?

To buy the TOEFL ITP, please visit our online store .

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How does TOEFL ITP differ from the other TOEFL testing programmes?

The TOEFL test is available in two ways: through the "official" international testing programme and through the Institutional Testing Programme. Under the official programme, the test is administered in two formats: paper-based and internet-based. Individual applicants register for the test, submit the proper fee, and may request that official copies of their scores be sent to designated institutions and agencies. The TOEFL ITP is a low-tech and cost-effective method of testing groups of students of any size within classrooms. The test is administered by the academic institution and scores from the ITP are reported only to the testing institution.

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THE TFI TEST

What is the TFI test?

The TFI® test (Test de Français International™) is a French language proficiency test for non-native speakers of French. It certifies the French skills (both academic and business) of test takers, from beginner to advanced levels.

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What is the format of the TFI test?

The TFI test lasts for around 110 minutes and comprises of 180 questions, which are divided into listening and reading sections. Points for each section range from 5 to 495 points; the total score, hence, ranges from between 10 to 990 points.

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How long is my score valid for?

Your TFI score will be valid for 2 years.

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How much does the test cost?

To find out how much the TFI test costs in your country, please visit our online store or contact your local ETS Global office or partner for more information.

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How can I register to take this test?

You can register online  to take a TFI test at an ETS Global authorised test centre.

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THE CRITERION ONLINE WRITING EVALUATION SERVICE

What is the Criterion Online Writing Evaluation Service?

The CriterionSM Online Writing Evaluation service is a web-based application that provides faculty, writing instructors and administrators at community colleges, universities and other institutions of higher education with a reliable writing assessment tool for their students. Students draft and submit essays and receive immediate feedback in the form of a holistic score and diagnostic annotations within each essay that guide writing instruction.

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How does the Criterion service work?

The Criterion service is powered by e-rater's® automated scoring technology to provide students with immediate scoring and diagnostic feedback on essays they submit.

  • Holistic Scores are based on nationally recognised standards.
  • Trait Feedback Analysis focuses on grammar, usage and mechanics; style; and organisation and development. This analysis provides both a summary and in-depth analysis of errors in an effort to pinpoint areas that require attention.

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How many topics are available?

Currently, there are 61 College Level I topics appropriate for first-year writing courses, practice and placement; 64 College Level II topics appropriate for second-year writing courses and practice; 10 College Preparatory topics; 14 GRE topics; and 35 TOEFL® topics.

The Criterion topics library also contains a group of basic skills writing assignments drawn from grade 11 and 12 topics called "College Level/Preparatory." These topics are graded against a lower-level scoring rubric and can be assigned to gradually move incoming freshman up to the first-year writing level.

In addition, when educators want students to write on a topic not available in the Criterion library, they can create and assign their own prompt for a student assignment. Although essays written on educator-created topics do not receive the holistic score, all of the features of diagnostic feedback will be reported when the essay is submitted.

Colleges and universities can also work with ETS to create new topics tailored to their needs.

The Criterion library of topics contains assignments representing the following writing genres: persuasive, informative, narrative, expository, issue and argumentative.

The Criterion service also offers a library of topics for high school, middle school and elementary school beginning at grade 4.

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How does the Criterion service handle an unusual writing style?

The Criterion service looks for specific features of syntax, organisation and vocabulary. If the essay under consideration is not sufficiently similar to those in its database of already-scored essays, the Criterion service posts a warning, called an Advisory, saying that it is unable to give an accurate score. Advisories usually result from essays that are too brief or those in which the vocabulary is unusual or the content is off-topic.

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How do institutions use the Criterion service for assessment purposes?

Some institutions use the Criterion scores for exit testing — combining a Criterion score with the score from class-work. Some institutions use the Criterion service for benchmark testing, assigning the Criterion-scored essays at specified points during a semester.

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How do institutions use the Criterion scores for placements?

Some colleges assign students to composition classes on the basis of their scores on a Criterion-scored essay — or the combination of a Criterion score and other indicators. The electronic score should not be the sole basis for a placement decision.

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Will the Criterion service detect cheating or plagiarism?

No. The Criterion service simply evaluates the essay. It is up to the institution to ensure that students are working independently and submitting their own work.

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THE GLOBAL TESTS FOR MAJOR STUDIES

What are the Global Tests for Major Studies (GTMS)?

The Global Tests for Major Studies are innovative undergraduate and MBA outcomes assessments designed to measure the basic knowledge and understanding achieved by students in a major field of study. Test results enable academic departments to better assess and refine curricula, gauge the progress of students compared to others in the programme and those in similar programmes at schools throughout the country.

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What programmes are GTMS offered for?

GTMS are offered for Biology, Business, Chemistry, Computer Science, Education, Engineering, MBA, Mathematics and Physics.

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What formats are GTMS available in?

GTMS are available in online and paper-and-pencil formats.

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How do I register to take the GTMS?

As a student, you must first contact your academic institution to check whether it is accredited to administer the GTMS.

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THE GRADUATE RECORD EXAMINATION

What is the difference between the GRE General Test and the GRE Subject Tests?

The GRE® General Test measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills that are not related to any specific field of study.

The GRE® Subject Tests gauge undergraduate achievement in eight specific fields of study and can help forecast a candidate's potential for success in graduate school. Each Subject Test is intended for students who have majored in or have extensive background in that specific area.

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What formats are these tests available in?

The GRE General Test is available in paper-based, as well as computer-based versions. It comprises three sections: verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning and analytical reasoning.

The GRE Subject Tests are paper-based and last 2 hours 50 minutes.

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When and how are scores reported?

If you take the computer-based General Test, you can view your unofficial Verbal and Quantitative scores at the test centre; however, because of the essay scoring process, you will not be able to view your Analytical Writing scores at that time. Verbal, Quantitative and Analytical Writing scores on the computer-based General Test will be sent to you and the institutions you designate within 10 to 15 days of your test administration.

If you take the paper-based General Test, you will not view any scores at the test centre. Verbal, Quantitative and Analytical Writing scores on the paper-based General Test will be sent to you and the institutions you designate within four to six weeks of your test administration.

For the Subject Test, one total score is reported on a 200-990 score scale, in 10-point increments, although the score range for any particular Subject Test is usually smaller.

Subscores are reported for the Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology; Biology; and Psychology Tests on a 20-99 score scale, in one-point increments, although the range for any particular Subject Test subscore is usually smaller.

Hand scoring for a Subject Test is available up to six months after the administration. Submit the fee with your written request; include your full name, date of birth, test date, registration number, address, and phone number. Mail the request to the “General Inquiries” address. If the score review process results in a higher or lower score, the new score(s) will be reported.

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How long are the GRE scores valid for?

Your GRE scores are valid for 5 years.

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How much does the test cost?

To find out how much the GRE costs in your country, please contact your local ETS Global office or partner for more information.

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PRACTICE AND PREPARATION RESOURCES

What are the practice and preparation resources that ETS Global offers?

ETS Global offers test-takers and language learners a variety of practice and preparations tools, both online and offline:

  • TOEFL® Practice Online (TPO)
  • TOEIC® Practice Online: Speaking and Writing
  • TOEFL® Accelerator™
  • Preparation books

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Where can I buy practice tools / tests and preparation books?

 To buy any of the ETS Global practice tools please visit our online store.

ETS Global also offers you a selection of more than 20 preparation books for the TOEIC® and TOEFL® tests. These include the official prep books with content that is authorised by ETS Global. The books comprise preparation tactics, official test items, example questions, and mini-tests to help you practise and prepare for the TOEIC and TOEFL tests.  To buy these prep books, visit our online store .

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Do I need to install any special software to use the online practice tests?

You do not need to install any special software to run any of the ETS practice tests.

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ETS GLOBAL CUSTOM ASSESSMENT SOLUTIONS

Does ETS Global only offer standardised testing products?

ETS Global expertise extends beyond language learning products to include assessment and admission testing and placement solutions, providing teaching and learning tools and making available custom assessment solutions. Our Custom Assessment Solutions address specific needs, leveraging our expertise in the fields of educational measurement and research, and combining ETS’ core capabilities with elements of our product portfolio.  For more information, visit our custom assessment solutions website.

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