English Language Schools Frequently Asked Questions

Which Course? International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - This is a comprehensive English language test that is accepted by most academic and professional institutions in many countries including Australia, Britain, Canada, New Zealand, and the US. Candidates are tested in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Cambridge First Certificate in English (FCE) - This is an examination at an intermediate level that is recognised widely. It covers Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking, and the Use of English. Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) - This is an examination at an advanced level that is recognised widely. It covers Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking, and the Use of English. Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) - This is an examination at an advanced level that is recognised widely by academic and professional institutions. It covers Listening Comprehension, Reading Comprehension, Composition, Use of English, and Interview. Cambridge Business English Certificate (BEC) - This is an examination in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking in work-related situations. It has three levels: BEC 1 (lower-intermediate), BEC 2 (upper-intermediate), and BEC 3 (advanced). General English beginners, intermediate, & advanced - Students can take these courses as a preparation for an English Language test, or just to improve their English without necessarily taking the exam. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - This is the american equivalent to IELTS.

Which School? Assuming that the school offers the course of your choice, there will be other factors to consider. Where do you want to study? Do you want to be in London or another big city, or do you prefer to be in a small town? Do you want lots of students in your classroom or do you prefer a small class size? When do you want to start, and for how long? And finally, can you afford the school of your choice or is it too expensive? Note that high course fees are not necessarily an indication of better quality. We will send you a list of all schools that meet your requirements. Why Compasses Education? We are not tied up to any particular school, and can offer you independent advice. We only deal with schools that are British Council accredited, and you can make a choice from every accredited school in the UK.

FACTS ABOUT ENGLISH Did you know that English is the most widespread language in the world and is more widely spoken and written than any other language? Did you know that over 400 million people have English as their first language, and 700 million people as their second language? Did you know that over two thirds of the world's research scientists read and report in English. Did you know that 80% of the world's electronically stored information is in English. Did you know that over 600,000 people come from overseas to study English in Britain every year.

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