Robust English Proficiency Tests Linked To Better Student Outcomes: Experts

The study “The Impact of English Language Test Choices for UK Higher Education” was conducted by Dr Emma Bruce (British Council), and other experts from various universities in the UK.

Study Abroad: A British Council expert and others from UK universities recognized that using tried and tested English Language Tests for assessing English language proficiency ensures that foreign students get the best student experience.

Experts conducted a study titled “The Impact of English Language Test Choices for UK Higher Education”. It was conducted by Dr Emma Bruce (British Council), Professor Susan Kinnear (University of Dundee), Professor Karen Ottewell (University of Cambridge), and Dr Tony Clark (Cambridge University Press & Assessment).

The UK universities had expanded their acceptance of new testing systems during the pandemic but now they are tightening the requirements.

“Surveyed institutions reported the challenges of assessing the language support needs of students who had not undergone robust English language testing, like IELTS, before admission. Those using less established tests reported difficulties in setting appropriate test score thresholds, and expressed concerns about students’ academic and social integration,” reads the British Council statement.

Experts’ Comments On Robust English Proficiency Tests

Maddalaine Ansell, Director Education, British Council said, “This report highlights the importance of quality and security in English language testing, for ensuring that international students get the education experience they have the right to expect. It makes constructive recommendations to enable more consistent application of existing best practice relating to English language proficiency tests, within the context of the self-assessment of English language.”

Professor Karen Ottewell, Acting Director of the University of Cambridge’s Language Centre and one of the study’s researchers, said, “When selecting which English language tests to accept, universities have a duty of care – to their own admissions standards, but especially to the international students they are seeking to attract. Getting those decisions right is important. But choosing which tests to accept is not straightforward. The research aims to address this gap by developing a framework for universities to evaluate the tests they accept so that they can make informed decisions. This is in the best interests of their own admissions standards and, more importantly, in the best interests of the international students they admit.”

Pamela Baxter, Managing Director, Cambridge University Press & Assessment, commented, “These findings highlight some of the challenges surrounding English language proficiency, as universities attempt to raise and maintain standards. International students now represent over 23% of the UK’s university population and - with the right English language standards - greatly enrich our world-class universities. Admitting students without sufficient English jeopardises their educational experience and places strains on institutions and faculty."

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