Summary of Popular English Exams: TOEIC, IELTS, National High School Exam and International Certificates

1. TOEIC Test

TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication) is a widely recognized international English certificate, particularly in work environments. The TOEIC test evaluates the ability to use English in daily communication and work contexts, suitable for those who want to enhance their career opportunities.

TOEIC Test Structure:

• TOEIC Listening & Reading: Consists of 2 sections - Listening and Reading, with 100 questions each. The maximum total score is 990 points. This is the most popular test format.
• TOEIC Speaking & Writing: Evaluates Speaking and Writing skills, typically for those who need to demonstrate more comprehensive communication abilities.

2. IELTS Test

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the world's leading academic and general English certificates. IELTS is required by many universities, immigration organizations, and international employers.

IELTS Test Structure: Comprises 4 main skills:

• Listening: 4 sections, 40 questions.
• Reading: 3 sections, 40 questions. There are 2 types of Reading tests: Academic and General Training.
• Writing: 2 essays. Similar to Reading, there are Academic and General Training formats.
• Speaking: 3 parts: Self-introduction, speaking about a topic, and discussion.

3. National High School Graduation Exam in English

The National High School Graduation Exam in English is one of the mandatory subjects, playing an important role in high school graduation assessment and university/college admissions in Vietnam.

Structure of the National High School English Exam:

• Multiple-choice objective test with various question types: Grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, gap-filling, error identification, sentence transformation, and communication.
• Content knowledge closely follows the textbook curriculum from grades 10 to 12.

4. English Grammar

English grammar is the core foundation for all skills. Whether you're studying for TOEIC, IELTS, or preparing for the National High School exam, mastering grammar is essential. Important grammar topics include:

• English tenses: Simple present, simple past, simple future, present perfect, etc.
• Sentence structures: Simple sentences, compound sentences, complex sentences, passive voice, conditional sentences, etc.
• Parts of speech: Nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, prepositions, conjunctions, etc.
• Relative clauses, reported speech, inversion, etc.

5. English Certificates A1, B1 (Common European Framework of Reference - CEFR)

English certificates according to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) such as A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2 assess language proficiency comprehensively.

• A1 (Beginner): Basic level, can understand and use familiar everyday expressions.
• B1 (Intermediate): Intermediate level, can communicate in familiar situations, understand the main ideas of more complex texts. B1 certificate is often a requirement for college/university students or some study abroad programs.

6. English from Grade 6 to Grade 12

The English curriculum from grade 6 to grade 12 is a journey of building solid foundational knowledge. Each grade level has its own focus:

• Grades 6-9 (Lower Secondary): Focus on familiarizing with basic grammar, common vocabulary, developing listening-speaking-reading-writing skills at elementary and lower intermediate levels.
• Grades 10-12 (Upper Secondary): Enhance grammar knowledge, expand academic vocabulary, practice more complex reading comprehension and essay writing skills, prepare for important exams like the National High School Graduation Exam.

We hope this list has provided you with a comprehensive overview of popular English tests. Choosing the appropriate test will depend on your personal goals and learning pathway. Do you have any questions about these tests?