English Proficiency and Study Abroad: More Than Just Passing an Exam

Did you know that the English language is one of the biggest culture shocks for many Indian students studying abroad? Yes! The moment you step into a foreign country, you will no longer hear Hinglish—just English, or perhaps, silence if you don’t know how to communicate fluently. Words like ‘na’ or ‘yaar’ will invite puzzled looks, and phrases such as ‘prepone’ simply don’t exist in native English. Simple gestures like saying ‘good morning’ and ‘thank you’ won’t just be WhatsApp messages anymore; they will be part of your daily interactions. 

For students coming from non-English-speaking countries, this transition can be daunting. So, what’s the best way to prepare? The answer lies in acquiring strong English proficiency before you leave. A staggering 79% of students and professionals who go abroad agree that English is crucial—not only for academic and work-related purposes but also for social life. 

To ensure that international students are prepared, countries have set standardized English proficiency tests such as IELTS, PTE, and CELPIP. These exams are designed to help students adjust to a new environment and make it easier for the host country to welcome individuals who are proficient in the language. 

Where Will You Need English Proficiency for Your Study Abroad Journey? 

Many students think of IELTS, PTE, or CELPIP only as a means to score bands and secure a visa. However, English proficiency for abroad studies goes far beyond just passing an exam. Here’s where your language skills will play a critical role: 

1. Application Process

You will need a strong command of English in many of the essential documents, for e.g. to write a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP). This document outlines your academic journey, career aspirations, and reasons for choosing a particular course and university. Since an SOP is highly personal, you must write it in your own words, showcasing both clarity and coherence in English. 

2. Admission and Scholarship Interviews

During these interviews, you must confidently introduce yourself, justify your choice of course, and discuss your research interests. Strong spoken English skills will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and make a lasting impression. 

3. Visa Interview

At the immigration stage, visa officers will assess your ability to communicate effectively in English. Your responses need to be fluent and confident to increase your chances of visa approval. 

4. Daily Life Abroad

Once you reach your destination, English proficiency becomes even more essential. You will need to: 

• Communicate at airports and immigration counters. 

• Understand lectures and participate in class discussions. 

• Interact with professors and peers on campus. 

• Manage conversations at your workplace (if you take up a part-time job). 

• Socialize with new people and integrate into the community. 

Essentially, fluent English is not just a requirement—it’s a survival skill. That’s why preparing through IELTS, PTE or CELPIP exams and coaching is not just about achieving a high score but about building your overall English proficiency for abroad studies. 

Which English Proficiency Test Should You Take? IELTS, CELPIP, or PTE? 

Each of these three tests fulfills visa requirements for studying abroad, but different countries have different preferences: 

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is widely accepted in over 140 countries, including the UK, Canada, Australia, the USA, and New Zealand. 

• CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) is specifically recognized in Canada for both study and immigration purposes. 

• PTE (Pearson Test of English) has gained popularity due to its AI-based scoring system and is accepted in countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the USA, and the UK. 

All three tests evaluate four key skills: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. However, they differ in format and structure. 

For instance: 

• IELTS offers both paper-based and computer-based options, making it flexible for different test-takers. 

• PTE and CELPIP are completely computer-based, making them ideal for tech-savvy students. 

• Speaking assessments in IELTS involve face-to-face interaction with a human examiner, while PTE and CELPIP use AI to evaluate your spoken responses. 

Growing Popularity of PTE and CELPIP 

While IELTS remains the most widely taken test, recent statistics show a 76% increase in PTE Academic test-takers globally in 2024. The test’s two-hour AI-enabled assessment provides unbiased results and is accepted by universities worldwide, including like Oxford, Harvard Business School, Yale, and Stanford.  

On the other hand, CELPIP, tailored specifically for Canada, is recognized by the IRCC and Canadian universities but is not as widely accepted in other countries like the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Students applying solely for Canada may find CELPIP a suitable option. 

Detailed Comparison of IELTS, PTE, and CELPIP 

Thus, there is no escaping the need to acquire spoken English skills if you plan to go abroad and want to survive and grow your career successfully. For that, one should approach the English proficiency test not just as an exam but as a learning opportunity. Choosing the right English proficiency test depends on your study destination and personal preferences. Remember, the goal is not just to pass an exam but to prepare yourself for a seamless academic and social life abroad with fluent English proficiency. So, change your perspective towards English and understand its importance in thriving in an English-speaking environment abroad!