There are many tests, ranging in levels of formality, available to New Canadians. Which test is applicable to you depends on your English level, profession and reason for taking the test (e.g. to pursue further education or apply for professional licensure).
Here are a few tests you may encounter. We highly suggest discussing testing and your job goals with an employment counsellor before spending money and time on an assessment.
CLB - Canadian Language Benchmarks
Canadian Language Benchmarks is the national standard in English for describing, measuring and recognizing second language proficiency of adult immigrants and prospective immigrants for living and working in Canada. This test is commonly used as a score to enter into LINC, ESL classes or bridging programs. This is often the first test newcomers will take when arriving in Canada.
In Kitchener-Waterloo this test can be accessed through:
Kitchener-Waterloo YMCA Language Assessment Centre
800 King Street West, 3rd Floor
Kitchener, Ontario, N2G 1E8
Tel: (519) 579-9622, Ext. 231
Email: aparau@ckwymca.ca
Website: http://ymcacambridgekw.ca
IELTS - International English Language Testing System
This test is sometimes used by universities and colleges for admissions, by professional associations such as the Ontario College of Teachers, and sometimes for immigration requirements. Conestoga College now runs preparatory workshops as well as IELTS testing. Visit http://www.ieltscanada.ca/ for more information.
TOEFL - Test of English as a Foreign Language
This is an academic test used by some universities and colleges and by some professional associations such as the Ontario College of Teachers. Depending on the test centre the test will either be Internet based (iBT) or paper based (PBT). http://www.ets.org/toefl does iBT testing and sets up testing centres throughout the world. They can be contacted to find local testing dates.
Test Preparation
There are a number of workshops and courses which can help you to prepare for these important language tests. Below you will find some links for preparatory resources here in the community.
