FAQs

LanguageCert Test of English FAQ

What is the LTE A1-C2 Listening & Reading computer-adaptive test?

The LTE A1-C2 Listening & Reading computer-adaptive test lasts approximately 60 minutes. The content of each individual test is responsive to each candidate's language proficiency and adapts accordingly.
The test adjusts its order and degree of difficulty in real time based on the candidate's responses to previous questions. This ensures the accurate measurement of language competence regardless of proficiency level. Each test is individualised to the ability of the candidate taking the test.

Who is the LTE qualification intended for?

The LanguageCert Test of English (LTE) qualifications are intended for:

non-native speakers of English who wish to

wish to acquire an internationally recognised certification of their English language competence
wish to provide current or potential employers with information as to their English language level
wish to measure their own progress in mastering the English language

employers who

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

universities and colleges that

require an externally recognised certification as part of their graduation process
need to establish the English language level of students to evaluate their ability to follow their chosen course of study
wish to offer students a test which will provide them with an internationally recognised certification of their English language competence

Which skills are tested?

LanguageCert Test of English (LTE) assesses Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking skills.

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 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 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 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.

What does the Speaking component assess?

Assesses communication skills and test takers’ ability to produce a natural interaction. Test takers are required to exchange information, express opinions and ideas, narrate and describe a topic.

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 can I submit a Reasonable Adjustments or Special Considerations request?

For information on our Reasonable Adjustments and Special Considerations Policy please click here or contact our Customer Service.

How many tests are there and in which formats?

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

LTE A1-B1 Listening & Reading test is available in paper-based format.
LTE A1-C2 Listening & Reading test is available in paper-based, computer-based format or Online with remote, live proctoring.
LTE A1-C2 Writing test is available in paper-based, computer-based format or Online with remote, live proctoring
LTE A1-C2 Speaking test is available is available face-to-face or Online with remote, live proctoring

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 A1-C2 Listening & Reading tests for?

The LTE A1-B1 Listening & Reading 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 Listening & Reading paper-based and computer-based adaptive 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)

LanguageCert Test of English (LTE) Speaking:

LTE A1-C2 face-to-face& online: approx. 10-14 minutes in total

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

The overall score and language level are established based on the candidates’ performance in Listening and Reading. Candidates need to achieve a score of 10 or above out of 100 to pass the test. 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. Only candidates whose performance falls below A1 level (less than 10 points) do not receive a certificate.

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

LanguageCert Test of English (LTE) is a suite of English exams for professional purposes suitable for adults aged 18+ who are in work, looking for work or in higher or further education and about to enter the work force. The LanguageCert Test of English (LTE) qualifications can be used internationally for employment opportunities, career advancement, or as a requirement for university/college graduation.

Can I fail the test?

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

How can I submit a result enquiry or an appeal request?

For information on our Appeals process please click here or contact our Customer Service.

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?

While LTE exams are primarily recommended for candidates aged 18 and above, candidates aged 16 or 17 are also eligible to take the exams.

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, Writing and Speaking exam online with remote, live proctoring anytime*, anyplace** 24/7/365

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?

LanguageCert Test of English (LTE) Listening & Reading:

LTE A1-B1 paper-based test: 2 business days
LTE A1-C2 paper-based test: 2 business days
LTE A1-C2 computer-adaptive: 2 business days & instant preliminary results

LanguageCert Test of English (LTE) Writing:

LTE A1-C2 paper-based test: 10 business days
LTE A1-C2 computer-based adaptive test: 5 business days
LTE A1 -C2 online adaptive test: 3 business day

LanguageCert Test of English (LTE) Speaking:

LTE A1-C2 face-to-face: 10 business days
LTE A1-C2 online: 3 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).
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 the workplace, while all LanguageCert International ESOL exams assess everyday practical English.