Types of English Language Proficiency Tests in Malaysia

In Malaysia, various English language proficiency tests are available to assess and certify students' English linguistic capabilities, opening a world of job opportunities and helping you connect personally and culturally with others.

Having a good English Proficiency Test (EPT) score proves that you:

1. Have a strong command of the English language

A good score demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively in English, showcasing your proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.

2. Enhance your academic prospects

A high score can significantly improve your chances of admission to prestigious universities and colleges where English proficiency is required. It shows that you can study and engage with academic materials in English.

3. Increase employability in the global job market

In today's interconnected world, many employers require employees who can communicate proficiently in English. A good score reflects your language skills and can enhance your employability across various industries and professions.

4. Facilitate migration and visa applications

If you plan to migrate to an English-speaking country, a good score can greatly enhance your chances of obtaining a visa. Immigration authorities often require proof of English language proficiency, and a high score can strengthen your application.

5. Gain confidence in your language abilities

Achieving a good score can boost your confidence in using English in various situations. It demonstrates your ability to express yourself effectively, understand complex ideas, and engage in meaningful conversations, leading to greater self-assurance in both academic and social contexts.

6. Stand out among other candidates

A good score can give you an edge over other candidates in competitive settings, such as scholarship applications or job interviews. It showcases your dedication to language learning and highlights your commitment to personal and professional growth.

Remember, a good EPT score is not only a testament to your language skills but also a valuable asset that can open doors to exciting opportunities in education, career, and personal development.

This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about the different types of English language proficiency tests currently conducted in Malaysia, highlighting their content, structure, and grading system. 

All Tests Mentioned (in order): 

• Malaysian University English Test (MUET)
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) 
• Cambridge Assessment English (CAE)
• All Test Fees

1. Malaysian University English Test (MUET)

The Malaysian University English Test (MUET) is primarily taken by students who intend to pursue first-degree studies within the field of English. 

MUET assesses students' English language proficiency in four components: 

• Listening
• Speaking
• Reading
• Writing

Assessing candidates’ level of proficiency using aggregated scores ranging from 1 to 360, which correspond to Bands from 1 to 5+.

The test strongly emphasises critical thinking, academic writing, and the ability to communicate effectively in English. It ensures students possess the necessary language skills to succeed in their tertiary education.

*MUET scores are often used as a requirement for admission into Malaysian and selected Singaporean universities*

Aggregated scores: 

AGGREGATED SCORE	BAND	USER
331 - 360	5+	Proficient
294 - 330	5	Proficient
258 - 293	4.5	Independent
211 - 257	4	Independent
164 - 210	3.5	Independent
123 - 163	3	Independent
82 - 122	2.5	Basic
36 - 81	2	Basic
1 - 35	1.5	Basic

 

2. International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

IELTS is a globally recognised English language proficiency test accepted by universities and organisations worldwide. It evaluates the language skills of non-native English speakers, measuring their proficiency in four sections:

• Listening
• Reading
• Writing
• Speaking

*The IELTS Academic module is suitable for high school students planning to study abroad, while IELTS General Training is designed for those seeking immigration or work opportunities in English-speaking countries*

The IELTS doesn’t use a percentage or specific point system. Instead, it uses a nine-band scoring system to evaluate its test takers, with each module being sorted into bands corresponding to a specific level of English proficiency, ranging from 1 (nonuser) to 9 (expert user). 

The overall band score results from the average of the 4 scores rounded to the nearest whole or half band (i.e. scores ending in .25 rounded up to the next half band and scores ending in .75 rounded up to the next whole band).

Example of rounding: 

• If your overall score is an average of 5.86, your score will increase to a 6
• If your overall score is an average of 5.1, your score will decrease to a 5
• If your overall score is an average of 5.25, your score will increase to a 5.5

Example of overall calculation: 

Reading	6
Writing	5
Listening	5.5
Speaking	6
Average of all four skills	5.6
Overall score	6

IELTS Band Description:

BAND SCORE	SKILL LEVEL	DESCRIPTION
9	Expert user	Has complete command of the language with appropriate, accurate, and fluent usage. Demonstrates understanding of complex academic and professional texts. Uses the English language flexibly and effectively in various contexts.
8	Very good user	Very good user Has a strong command of the language with only occasional inaccuracies Understands and handles complex language well Expresses ideas clearly
7	Good user	Has operational command of the language, despite occasional inaccuracies or misunderstandings. Uses English effectively and understands detailed reasoning. Handles complex language well and can express ideas clearly.
6	Competent user	Generally uses English competently despite noticeable errors Understands and conveys the main ideas in a clear manner. Demonstrates the ability to use and understand fairly complex language
5	Modest user	Has partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning but with frequent errors. Understands and communicates basic information. Has some ability to understand and produce detailed language, but with occasional inaccuracie
4	Limited user	Displays basic competence in the language but with frequent breakdowns in communication. Struggles to understand complex language and may have difficulty expressing ideas. Relies on familiar language and makes frequent errors.
3	Extremely limited user	Conveys and understands only general words or meanings. Experiences difficulties in understanding and speaking English.
2	Intermittent user	The test taker has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English
1	Non-user	The test taker cannot use the English language except for a few isolated words
0	Did not attempt the test	The test taker did not answer the questions

IELTS Listening Scores: 

NUMBER OF CORRECT ANSWERS	BAND SCORES
39-40	9
37-38	8.5
35-36	8
32-34	7.5
30-31	7
26-29	6.5
23-25	6
18-22	5.5
16-17	5
13-15	4.5
11-12	4

IELTS Reading Scores:

NUMBER OF CORRECT ANSWERS	BAND SCORES
40-39	9
38-37	8.5
36-35	8
34-33	7.5
32-30	7
29-27	6.5
26-23	6
22-19	5.5
18-15	5
14-13	4.5
12-10	4
9-8	3.5
7-6	3
5-4	2.5

 

IELTS Writing Test Assessment Criteria: 

Writing tasks 1 and 2 are monitored on 4 parameters. Examiners award a band score for each of the following criteria:

• Task Achievement (Task 1) 
• Task Response (for Task 2)
• Coherence and Cohesion
• Lexical Resource
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy

Task Achievement (for Task 1)	To present accurate information To provide an overview To highlight key features To support detail with data
Task Response (for Task 2)	Answering questions Giving supportive points Providing a conclusion
Coherence and Cohesion	To organise information/ideas into paragraphs Having one central idea for each paragraph To use a range of linking devices
Lexical Resource	To use a range of words and paraphrasing To use collocations Check to spell
Grammatical Range and Accuracy	To use a range of sentence structures To use a range of tenses Avoid errors Check punctuation

IELTS Speaking Test Assessment Criteria

Examiners award a band score for each of the four criteria:

• Fluency and Coherence
• Lexical Resource
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy
• Pronunciation

The four criteria are weighted equally.

Fluency and Coherence	Talk without pauses Talk at length Easily understood Uses linking devices
Lexical Resource	Use a range of words and paraphrasing Use common vocabulary Avoid errors Use collocations
Grammatical Range and Accuracy	Use a range of sentence structures Use a range of tenses Avoid errors
Pronunciation	Make sure you are understood Use intonation Make sure your accent does not affect your understanding

3. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

TOEFL is another widely accepted English language proficiency test for academic purposes.

It measures English language skills in four areas: 

• Reading
• Listening
• Speaking
• Writing

 TOEFL is recognised by universities globally, including those in Malaysia. 

*The test evaluates students' ability to understand and use English in an academic setting, making it an ideal choice for high school students aiming to study abroad*

Raw vs Scaled scores

Raw score - Your raw score is the number of correct answers you have given on any of the given sections (listening, reading, writing, and speaking).

*However, since the number of questions differs between sections, your raw score must be scaled*

Scared score - Your scaled score is your raw score on a 0-30 point system that TOEFL uses to mark your results on the report card. 

TOEFL Scoring System

Reading and Listening Section:

• Each question is worth 1 point.
• The number of correct answers is tallied to obtain a raw score.
• The raw score is then converted to a scaled score.

Speaking and Writing Section:

• Both human raters and an automated scoring system evaluate the Speaking section.
• Human raters assess the test-taker's responses based on rubrics provided by ETS (Educational Testing Service).
• The raters assign scores of 0 to 4 for each task. *Speaking.
• The raters assign scores of 0 to 5 for each task. *Writing.
• The scores given by the human raters are combined with scores generated by the automated scoring system.
• The combined scores are then converted to a scaled score ranging from 0 to 30 using a conversion chart provided by ETS.

4. Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)

PTE Academic is a computer-based English language proficiency test that assesses the candidate’s skills in:

• Listening
• Reading
• Speaking
• Writing 

The Pearson Test is accepted by universities and colleges worldwide, including several institutions in Malaysia. 

*PTE Academic evaluates real-life English skills, focusing on academic and general language use. Making it an ideal test for students who wish to study or immigrate to an English language-dominated country*

Upon completing a PTE Academic test, you will receive a Score Report and a Skills Profile to assist in understanding your test score, language skill level, and areas of improvement. 

Source: Pearson PTE

The PTE (Pearson Test of English) scores are calculated using an automated scoring system. The calculator will grade on a scale of 0-90 for each section, with some of the tasks earning points only when the answer is correct, whereas others are rated based on a given rubric/standard given to the algorithm (mainly focusing on answer quality, correctness, and formality). 

There are two types of scoring in the PTE exam calculator; Partial credit and Correct or Incorrect:

• Partial Credit: Partial credit is only given to correct answers. All incorrect responses will be deducted from points earned by correct ones. 
• Correct or Incorrect: One point will be given for every correct answer. Incorrect ones will result in no additional score or deduction. 

PTE Academic Types:

The PTE test consists of three parts: Part 1 includes speaking and writing (77-93 minutes), Part 2 covers reading (32-41 minutes), and Part 3 focuses on listening (45-57 minutes). The following sections provide a detailed breakdown of each part's structure, question types, and scoring.

PTE Academic Types Part 1

QUESTION TYPES	SCORING
Read Aloud	Partial credit
Repeat Sentence	Partial credit
Describe image	Partial credit
Re-tell lecture	Partial credit
Answer Short Questions	Correct/ Incorrect
Summarise Written Text	Partial credit
Writing Essay	Partial credit

PTE Academic Types Part 2

QUESTION TYPES	SCORING
Multiple-choice, choose a single answer	Correct/ Incorrect
Multiple-choice, choose multiple answers	Partial credit (for each correct response. Points deducted for incorrect options chosen)
Re-order paragraphs	Partial credit (for each correctly ordered, adjacent pair)
Reading: Fill in the blanks	Partial credit (for each correctly completed blank)
Reading and writing: Fill in the blanks	Partial credit (for each correctly completed blank)

PTE Academic Types Part 3

QUESTION TYPES	SCORING
Summarise spoken text	Partial credit
Multiple-choice, choose multiple answers	Partial credit (for each correct response. Points are deducted for incorrect options chosen
Fill in the blanks	Partial credit (each correct word spelled correctly)
Highlight correct summary	Correct/ Incorrect
Multiple-choice, choose a single answer	Correct/ Incorrect
Select missing word	Correct/ incorrect
Highlight incorrect words	Partial credit (for each word. Points deducted for incorrect options chosen)
Write from dictation	Partial credit (for each word spelled correctly)

 

PTE Test Score Descriptions: 

The PTE test scores are measured individually on a scale of 10-90, indicating proficiency in specific skill areas. The score ranges, and corresponding descriptions are as follows:

SCORE RANGE	DESCRIPTION
10-30	Very Low Proficiency  Limited understanding and communication abilities in the tested skill area.  Significant improvement is needed to reach an acceptable proficiency level.
31-49	Low Proficiency  Basic understanding and communication abilities, but with noticeable limitations and errors.  Further development and practice is required
50-64	Intermediate Proficiency  moderate understanding, and communication abilities, with some errors and limitations.  Can handle common situations reasonably well but may struggle in more complex contexts.
65-79	Competent Proficiency Good understanding and communication abilities, with occasional errors or gaps when faced with complex situations.  Can handle a range of tasks and express ideas effectively.
80-90	High Proficiency  Advanced understanding and communication abilities.  Can effectively handle complex tasks, understand nuanced language, and express ideas fluently and accurately.

5. Cambridge Assessment English

Cambridge Assessment English offers a range of English language proficiency tests suitable for high school students. These tests include:

a) Cambridge B2 First Certificate/Cambridge First Certificate (FCE)

The Cambridge B2 test assesses language ability at an upper-intermediate level, evaluating reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Universities and employers widely recognise it as a form of qualification to study or work in English language dominated countries. 

The Cambridge B2 First (FCE) test's scoring system follows a scale ranging from 120 to 190. The total score is based on the performance of all sections within the test. It is highly popular as B2 is often the minimum requirement for university programs in English-speaking countries.

SCORE RANGE	GRADE	DESCRIPTION
180-190	A	Exceptional language ability. Demonstrates a high level of fluency, accuracy, and sophistication in all language skills
173-179	B	Very good language ability.  Displays fluency, accuracy, and complexity in language use across all skills.
160-172	C	Good language ability.  Shows effective communication with some errors and occasional lack of sophistication.
140-159	B2	Moderate language ability.  Demonstrates satisfactory communication but with noticeable limitations and errors.
120-139	B1	Limited language ability.  Displays a basic understanding and use of English but with significant limitations.

The overall score is calculated by adding the scores from each test section. Each section is weighted equally. However, test-takers must achieve a minimum score of 160, with no individual section falling below 140.

It's important to note that the specific score requirements for passing the FCE test or achieving a desired grade may vary depending on the institution or purpose of the test.

The FCE scoring system is designed to accurately assess a test taker's English language proficiency at the upper-intermediate level. The scores are internationally recognised and can be used for various purposes, such as academic admissions and employment opportunities.

b) Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE)

Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) is an advanced-level exam that measures proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It is suitable for high school students who require a higher level of English for academic or professional purposes.

c) Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)

Proficiency (CPE) is the highest-level Cambridge English exam. It demonstrates exceptional language ability, often required for admission to prestigious universities or high-level positions.

It is most suitable for students who are pursuing higher education in English-speaking countries, professionals seeking to enhance their career prospects, or those who simply want to validate their high level of English proficiency.

The Cambridge English Proficiency (CPE) test's scoring system follows a scale ranging from 200 to 230. The total score is based on the performance in all four sections of the test: Reading and Use of English, Writing, Listening, and Speaking.

Here is a breakdown of the scoring system:

SCORE RANGE	GRADE	LEVEL	DESCRIPTION
220-230	A	C2	Exceptional language ability.  Demonstrates a high level of fluency, accuracy, and sophistication in all language skills.
210-219	B	C2	Very good language ability.  Displays fluency, accuracy, and complexity in language use across all skills
200-209	C	C2	Good language ability.  Shows effective communication with some errors and occasional lack of sophistication
180-199	Level C1	C1	Limited language ability.  Shows some understanding and communication skills but with noticeable limitations, errors, and a lack of sophistication
162-179	Below level C1	-	Moderate language ability.  Demonstrates some understanding and communication skills, but with noticeable limitations, errors, and occasional lack of sophistication
0-161	Not reported	-	Limited language ability.  Demonstrates minimal understanding and communication skills with significant limitations and errors

 

The minimum score to pass C2 Proficiency (CPE) is 200 on the Cambridge English Scale. The minimum number of correct items/marks to pass each part is:

• Reading: 28 correct items
• Use of English: 17 correct items
• Writing: 24 marks
• Listening: 18 correct items
• Speaking: 45 marks

CPE Marks Per paper:

Here is a clear explanation of each section and the number of questions and marks assigned in the C2 Proficiency exam.

However, it's important to note that parts are not evaluated separately in the Speaking section, and candidates are awarded marks based on specific criteria.

READING	ITEMS	MARKS PER ITEM
Part 1	8	1
Part 5	6	2
Part 6	7	2
Part 7	10	1
TOTAL	31	44

 

USE OF ENGLISH	ITEMS	MARKS PER ITEM
Part 2	8	1
Part 3	8	1
Part 4	6	2
TOTAL	22	28

 

WRITING	ITEMS	MARKS PER ITEM
Part 1	1	20
Part 2	1	20
TOTAL	2	40

 

LISTENING	ITEMS	MARKS PER ITEM
Part 1	6	1
Part 2	9	1
Part 3	5	1
Part 4	10	1
TOTAL	30	30

 

SPEAKING	MAX. POINTS	MARKS PER ITEM
Grammatical Resource	5	10
Lexical Resource	5	10
Discourse Management	5	10
Pronunciation	5	10
Interactive Communication	5	10
Global Performance	5	25
TOTAL	30	75

Test Fees

*All prices here are in Malaysian Ringgit (RM) and the most recent prices found. The prices for these test types tend to fluctuate, so checking in with an official test centre or authorised registration bodies in Malaysia for the current fees is recommended*

Test Type	Malaysian Citizen (RM)	Non-Malaysian Citizen (RM)
MUET	150	250
IELTS	795-855	795-885
TOEFL	840-910	840-910
PTE	830-900	930-1000
CAE	1100-1300	1300-1500
CPE	1300-1500	1500-1700

Conclusion

A strong understanding of the English language is crucial for high school students aiming to pursue higher education or professional opportunities. The English language proficiency tests mentioned in this guide offer reliable measures of language skills and are recognised globally. 

By understanding each test's purpose, structure, and content, high school students can decide which test(s) to take based on their goals and aspirations. Engaging in thorough preparation and practice for these tests will give students the confidence and skills needed to excel in their future academic and professional endeavours. 

Remember, each test serves a specific purpose, so choosing the test(s) that align with your goals and requirements is essential.

Good luck!

 

Written by: Julia Tay