 | There's lots to consider when searching for your ideal Masters programme. Here's some helpful advice on International Language Tests: | What are language tests? These days an increasing number of postgraduate students choose to go overseas in search of their ideal Masters programme. Studying abroad can be a stimulating and exciting experience, broadening your horizons and enhancing your CV. Of course, living and studying in another country also offers some challenges. Not least of these may be the need to develop skills in a foreign language in order to engage with course materials and interact effectively with lecturers and fellow students. | For this reason many universities ask international students to demonstrate some familiarity with their prospective language of study by taking a language test. These vary between different countries, but most will provide you with a certificate confirming that you possess language skills at a given level. These qualifications may also help you find work during or after your studies. |  |
| Who needs to take them? You will need to check the information for your specific Masters programme in order to confirm what its exact language requirements are, but our guides to Masters Study Abroad offer general information on the language requirements for international students in a range of countries around the world. As a rule, you will probably need to demonstrate some foreign language proficiency if your course is taught in a language that is not your mother tongue, but requirements may vary for some Masters courses. Programmes that rely less upon written teaching materials or oral presentation and discussion may have lower language requirements than others. It's also worth bearing in mind that not all courses will be taught in a country's native language. As universities seek to attract more international students they have begun offering more foreign language programmes (though these may be more expensive). |  | What are the most common language tests? For courses in English the TOEFL and the IELTS are well established. In Germany the TestDaF is administered internationally, whilst the DSH may be taken at German universities. In France, Portugal and Spain a range of associated tests are set at different proficiency levels. Countries with an international or shared language (such as Brazil, Canada or Taiwan), often administer their own tests and may not necessarly recognise certificates awarded overseas. How are they organised and assessed? Most language tests involve examinations at appointed testing centres. These focus on reading, writing and general comprehension skills. In many cases an associated oral test is also set, using voice recognition software or assessment by a human examiner. Tests are scored in various ways. Some will award different levels based on your performance in the exam.Others are organised into tiered certificates or diplomas, with students choosing which proficiency standard they wish to aim for. |
| How much do they cost? Fees for different language tests vary and the same test may cost more at centres in alternative countries. As a general rule you should expect to pay the equivalent of between $100-200, but this is only a very rough guide. Some international scholarship and funding packages may cover the cost of language tests, Don't forget that a recognised language certificate may still be valuable to you after you have completed your Masters - particularly if you go on to further study or employment abroad. |  |
| Where can I find out more? | image credit to Kaplan International English, lilivanili and Loren Sztajer, with thanks. |
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