• Introduction
• Online Test
• Online Learning, Testing & Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
• English Language Teaching, Testing, Teacher Training & Generic Teacher Training
• Teacher Recruitment, Placement & Administration

International - Online Test

The CPL English Language Assessment Test (ELAT) is designed to test your current competency in English.

The Test

The CPL ELAT is a multiple-choice test. 100 questions are selected from a database which has been compiled from a variety of internationally-recognised lexico-grammatical items.

The Test is administered entirely online, and takes a maximum of 50 minutes to complete. Scores and CPL certificates are emailed to candidates normally within 24 hours. Candidates access the test from the test website via a User Name and Password. These are emailed direct to candidates when the test fee is paid. For information about custom-made testing, consultancy and syllabus & materials' design, please email us.

Candidates do not need much in the way of computer skills to do the test. After logging in, they are taken straight to a Take Test page, where a single click starts the test. In each test, a timer is visible in the top right hand corner of the screen so that candidates always know how much time remains. On the left hand side of the screen, answer boxes change to green when a test item has been completed. Candidates are free to scroll through the test in any order they like and can change their minds about chosen answers. The only restriction is time. If a test is completed early, a candidate can simply close the window and leave the test. If the full time has elapsed, the candidate is locked out of the system. Marks are then collated by CPL-approved test centres and administrators. Certificates are then mailed directly from our head office in the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to take the CPL test?
You need an internet connection. You don't have to have broadband, although the connection will be more reliable if you do.

Once I've paid my fee, how do I take the test?
You will be sent a User Name and Password via email. As soon as you connect to the internet, direct your browser to our online learning platform. You will be asked to enter your User Name and Password in the boxes. If they are current, you will be directed straight to the test and you can start.

How long does the test take?
There are 100 multiple choice questions in 50 minutes. Once the time is up, you will be automatically logged out of the system.

Can I do it more quickly?
Of course. Simply scroll down through the questions as fast as you like. When you've answered question 100, close the browser window, and the test is finished.

If I think I've clicked the wrong answer, can I change my mind?
Yes, at any time. Once you click on an answer, the relevant box on the left of the screen turns green. However, you are able to change any answer you like, as well as move forwards and backwards through the test, as often as you want. Just remember that the test is TIMED: as soon as 50 minutes is up, you're logged out.

I'm not a very good typist. Will this affect my score?
No. You only need to type your user name and password, and you type these before the test starts. You answer questions, scroll up and down and submit just by using your mouse.

How long will it take to receive my score?
We aim to turn results around within 24 hours. However, if you take a test on a weekend, please wait until Monday.

Will I get a Certificate?
Yes, you will receive a CPL Certificate of your current level of English Language competency provided fees have been paid.

Apart from the Certificate, what else do I get?
You will receive a brief analysis of your current test score. If, for example, you wish to take a TOEFL test and need to know how many hours of teaching you require, we will supply this at no extra charge.

How long is the test valid for?
Like most tests of English competency the CPL test is valid for two years.

Test Scores & Equivalences

Look at the table below to see how the scores equate to international levels of English competency.

Any other questions?

If you need to ask us anything else, please email Helen Rogers.

Order Online

To order your online examination login and password please use the form below. You can order multiple examinations for multiple candidates if you so wish.