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Speaking and writing

Every response is scored against fixed criteria, then converted to a CEFR level. Each skill is scored on five dimensions.
A scored writing assessment showing the overall CEFR level and score, a bar for each writing dimension, and the integrity panel

A scored writing result: the level, each dimension, and the integrity report beside it. Written feedback follows below.

Speaking

  • Pronunciation: clarity of sounds, stress, intonation
  • Fluency: natural pace and flow, little hesitation
  • Grammar: sentence structure, tense accuracy
  • Vocabulary: range and fit to context
  • Coherence: relevance, organization, logical flow

Writing

  • Task response: addresses the whole prompt
  • Organisation: structure, paragraphing, flow
  • Vocabulary: range and precision
  • Grammar: accuracy, sentence variety
  • Conventions: spelling, punctuation, formatting

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The written feedback

Alongside the numbers, each result includes feedback in two parts:
  • What went well: specific strengths
  • Opportunities: where the response was weaker
This is the part worth reading before an interview. A B2 who is strong on vocabulary but weak on coherence is a different candidate from a B2 with the reverse profile, and the overall level alone will not tell you which you have.

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Reading and listening

Every question has one correct answer, so the result is a calculation rather than a judgement: instant, and identical every time. Harder questions count for more than easier ones, and the level boundaries line up with speaking and writing, so a B2 in reading means the same as a B2 in writing.

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Fairness and consistency

Every candidate answers comparable questions under identical timing. Questions are drawn at random within a fixed structure, so candidates cannot simply pass answers to each other, while the difficulty stays consistent. Responses are also checked for attempts to manipulate the scoring, for example text instructing the scorer to award a high mark. Those attempts are detected and do not affect the result.
Scores reflect the responses given on the day. A candidate who is nervous or in a noisy room may score below their true ability, which is worth keeping in mind for anyone close to your cut-off.
For the full methodology, see how we score.