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English

Official and internationally recognised certificates are issued either by the British or the American (United States) educational systems. In general, these tests can be taken in different English-speaking partner schools around the world.

General Introduction to the British and American Exams

Difference between British exams and American tests
Recognition:
Cambridge → UK (except CPE -> USA only)
Toefl & Toiec → USA & Canada
Cambridge → uncontested academic recognition
Toefl & Toiec → versatile and practical

The Cambridge Certificates

The Cambridge exams are known all over the world. They have an excellent reputation and are recognised by universities, employers and national education authorities as tangible evidence of a qualification in linguistic competence.

Many universities recognise, among others, the Certificate of Advanced English, the Certificate of Proficiency in English and the IELTS as essential linguistic certificates, giving access to higher studies in the English language.

English Exams

The Cambridge Certificates

FCE (Cambridge First Certificate in English)
Corresponding to the Swiss pre-university level, the FCE is without doubt the best known of the Cambridge exams, in that it is recognised in the majority of countries, where it can open doors both in academic and professional fields. >>> Details

CAE (Certificate of Advanced English)
The level above the FCE, it is required more and more for undertaking university studies in Great Britain. Proof of language level in numerous countries, the CAE is a solid professional asset. >>> Details

CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English)
It requires very good linguistic and cultural knowledge. It constitutes a direct reference for the majority of British universities and, due to its renown, for a large number of businesses and institutions. >>> Details

BEC (Business English Certificate)
This series of three exams (three levels) – BEC Preliminary, BEC Vantage, BEC Higher – was put in place to test English Language Skills in the context of the business world. These exams are aimed at adults who work in the business sector or are preparing to do so. >>> Details
Mit dieser Serie von drei Prüfungen (drei Stufen) - BEC Preliminary, BEC Vantage sowie BEC Higher - sollen die englischen Sprachkompetenzen in der Geschäftswelt überprüft werden. Das BEC richtet sich an Erwachsene, die im Businessbereich arbeiten oder sich darauf vorbereiten. >>> Details

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
It is required for undertaking university studies in certain English-speaking countries, notably Australia and Great Britain. This exam is designed to evaluate general skills in oral and written comprehension, as well as other practical areas such as summaries and written reports. The grading system is based around points (9.5 points being the maximum and 5-7 points being the average). >>> Details

PET (Preliminary English Test)
Elementary level, corresponding to the level acquired on finishing business school.

LCCI
(London Chamber of Commerce and Industry)
Developed by the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The American Exams

The two main exams that have been developed in the United States are nowadays recognised by many large international companies.


TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
The TOEFL represents a precise standard of evaluation of linguistic level that allows you to commence studies in the majority of American and Canadian colleges and universities. Numerous companies also use it as a condition for employment and promotion. Made up of multiple choice questions, it is divided into three parts and evaluates all aspects of the language. Generally speaking, candidates sit the test after having followed a preparation course of at least 4 to 6 weeks and having attained an intermediate level. The TOEFL awards points to reflect the level of knowledge. The score obtained is valid for two years. The exam is offered in two formats, each with a different points scale (paper or computer). >>> Details

TOEIC (Test of English in International Communication)
The TOEIC has become the international standard for evaluating English proficiency in the business and communication worlds. The exam is composed of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover both oral and written comprehension. It lasts about 2 ½ hours. >>> Details