About the English Placement Test
Learn how our adaptive CEFR-aligned test works — its structure, methodology, and what your result really means.
Purpose and Design
The English Placement Test was developed by Language Consultants S.r.l. in collaboration with The English Grammar Club® to provide learners with a quick yet reliable assessment of their language ability.
It follows the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), ensuring results that are consistent with international standards used by schools, universities, and employers worldwide.
Structure of the Test
The assessment consists of forty/sixty multiple-choice questions that gradually increase in difficulty.
Each section targets a different linguistic area — grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension — to provide a rounded profile of competence.
The test is not time-limited, allowing candidates to work at their own pace and focus on accuracy rather than speed.
Scoring, Adaptivity, and CEFR Alignment
The English Placement Test uses an adaptive algorithm that adjusts the level of difficulty according to your responses.
When you answer correctly, the system gradually introduces more complex grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension tasks; when you make an error, it presents easier ones to refine the estimate of your ability.
This ensures that every learner — from beginner to advanced — receives a personalised assessment without unnecessary questions.
Results are automatically calculated and mapped onto the CEFR scale (A1–C2).
Each score range corresponds to a specific descriptor, from understanding familiar expressions at A1 to communicating precisely in academic and professional contexts at C1–C2.
The scale allows direct comparison with internationally recognised qualifications such as Cambridge, IELTS, and Trinity exams.
Methodology and Validation
The test was designed by experienced examiners and teacher-trainers with expertise in CEFR calibration.
Every question has been trialled with real learners to ensure fairness and reliability across different nationalities and proficiency bands.
Periodic updates keep the content aligned with current linguistic research and usage trends in English as a global language.
Interpreting Your Result
After completing the English Placement Test, you receive an overall CEFR level with a short descriptor explaining what users at that level can typically do.
This result is an indicative placement tool — not a formal certification — but it offers a clear reference point for choosing the right course or preparing for an official exam.
Who Should Take It
The test is suitable for learners aged sixteen and above who wish to identify their English level before starting a course, applying for study abroad, or joining corporate training programmes.
Teachers and HR managers also use it to group participants by ability or to track progress within language development plans.
Data Privacy and Accessibility
No personal data or registration is required to complete the English Placement Test.
It is fully web-based, accessible from desktop or mobile, and optimised for assistive technologies to meet WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standards.
Next Steps
Use your CEFR level as a starting point to plan further study with one of our expert tutors.
Courses are available for General English, Business English, and exam preparation at every level.
Learn more at
Language Consultants S.r.l.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the English Placement Test officially certified?
The English Placement Test is an internal diagnostic tool designed by
Language Consultants S.r.l. and The English Grammar Club®.
It follows the CEFR framework but does not issue an official certificate.
However, your score aligns directly with internationally recognised levels (A1–C2).
How accurate is the adaptive scoring system?
The adaptive algorithm adjusts question difficulty in real time, analysing each answer to estimate your CEFR level precisely.
Pilot testing and periodic statistical reviews ensure accuracy comparable to traditional paper-based assessments.
How long does the test take?
Most learners complete the English Placement Test in around 10–15 minutes.
The system is not time-limited, so you can work at your own pace and review questions before submitting.
Can I retake the test?
Yes. You can retake the test at any time. Repeating the English Placement Test after several weeks is an excellent way
to measure your progress and confirm improvement across CEFR levels.
Who should take this test?
It’s suitable for students, professionals, or anyone planning to join a course, apply for a job abroad,
or simply evaluate their current English skills. The test adapts automatically to your level,
making it equally effective for beginners and advanced users.
Not sure where to start?
The General English Test gives you a complete CEFR level from A1 to C2 — ideal for study, work, or travel.
