Linguaskill, the English language test with fast and accurate results

 

Linguaskill is Cambridge Assessment English’s new multi-level test to prove your level of English. With Linguaskill you neither pass nor fail, as it covers all levels of the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). It is a very flexible English test, in which the candidate chooses the skills they need to be assessed: Reading and Listening (combined), Writing, and Speaking. The test features the latest technology in
artificial intelligence, adapting the difficulty of the test to the candidate’s level of English.

Linguaskill can be easily organised and monitored, at any time or even at a company or university’s own premises. All you need is a computer, an internet connection and a headset with a microphone.

Results are available within 48 hours and are aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), the international standard for describing language skills. In addition, the results report has no expiry date.

Test format

Linguaskill is a modular test in which all four linguistic skills are assessed: Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking.
This gives you the possibility to choose which skills you want to take the test in.

The test is available in two versions: Linguaskill General and Linguaskill Business, which gives you the ability to
choose the type of language you want to be tested on.

 

Linguaskill General

Linguaskill General assesses language used in everyday life, making it perfect to secure a place at or to graduate from university, as well as for selection processes for jobs in a non-business environment. This would be the case if the employee needs strong English language skills to carry out their role effectively but does not require specialised business terminology.

This makes the test suitable for a wide range of organisations. Test topics include study, work, plans for the future, travel and technology.

Linguaskill Business

Linguaskill Business tests English used in a business and corporate environment. It is the most suitable choice for selection processes in organisations whose employees are expected to be familiar with the language of business.
It is suitable for small and large organisations that may be operating on an international level. Test topics include buying and selling products and services, office, business travel and human resources.

 

Reading and Listening

This module is flexible, so there is no set number of questions. Each question the candidate answers helps
the computer to better understand their level of English. The test ends when the candidate has answered
enough questions for the computer system to identify their level accurately.

Download the Reading and Listening digital test guide

The Reading and Listening module results are provided immediately.

 

Time available 60 – 85 minutes
Parts: 7
No. of questions: Variable
Grade: Provided immediately
Length of texts: Variable
Type of questions – Reading module tasks:

Read and select
Candidates read a notice, diagram, sign, memo or letter containing a short text and choose the sentence or
phrase which comes closest to the meaning of the text. There are three possible answers.

 

Gapped sentences
Candidates read a sentences with a blank space. They must choose the appropriate word to fill in the blank space. There are four choices for each space.
Multiple-choice gap-fill Candidates choose the appropriate word or phrase to fill in the blanks in a text. There are four choices for each blank.

Open gap-fill
Candidates read a short text with some words missing and write the missing word in each gap.

Extended reading
Candidates read a longer text and answer several multiple-choice questions. The questions follow the same order as the information in the text.

Type of questions –  Listening module tasks:

Listen and select
Candidates listen to a short audio recording and answer multiple-choice questions with three possible options.

 

Extended Listening
Candidates listen to a longer recording and answer several multiple-choice questions based on it. The questions follow the same order as the information they hear in the recording.

The Writing module asks candidates to enter answers using the computer keyboard. The answers are automatically scored by the system. Results will be available within 12 hours.

 

Time available 45 minutes
Parts: 2
Part 1 (email): Candidates must write an email of at least 50 words.
Score part 1: 50%
Part 2 (long text) The candidate will be asked to write a minimum of 180 words.
Score Part 2: 50%
Types of questions:

Part one
Candidates read a short text, usually an email. They have to use the information in the text and the three points listed to write an email of at least 50 words. Candidates should spend about 15 minutes on this task.

Part two
Candidates read a short text describing a scene and respond using the information provided and the three points listed. A letter or report of at least 180 words is asked for. Candidates should spend about 30 minutes on this task.

The Speaking module requires the use of a computer and a headset with a microphone. The questions are presented to the candidate via the screen and headphones. Their answers are recorded and then marked by the examiners. The results will be available within 48 hours. Each part makes up 20% of the final maeks for this test.

 

Time available 15 minutes
Parts: 5
Part 1 (interview): The candidate answers eight personal questions (the first two are not scored).
Score part 1:  20%.
Part 2 (read aloud): The candidate must read out 8 sentences.
Score part 2:  20%.
Part 3 (long turn 1): The candidate is given a topic on which to speak for approximately one minute. The
candidate is given 40 seconds to prepare.
Score part 3: 20%.
Parte 4 (long turn 2) The candidate is shown one or more graphs (e.g. a chart, a diagram or a fact sheet)
about which they must speak for one minute. They are given one minute to prepare. There is only one question for this part.
Questions: 1
Score part 4: 20%.
Part 5 (communicative activity): The candidate gives their opinion, in the form of short answers, on
five questions related to a topic. One minute is allowed for preparation.
Questions 5: 20%.
Score part 5: 20%.