TSE® Details: Test Takers
Current section: About the test > Overview
TSE® Overview
What is the TSE?
The Test of Spoken English™ (TSE), the most widely used assessment of spoken English worldwide, measures the ability of nonnative speakers of English to communicate effectively. The test is used for employment, graduate assistantships, licensure and certification purposes.
Who takes the TSE?
If you are a student or working professional with English as your second language, you may be asked to take the test to demonstrate how well you can speak in English.
Where and when do people take the TSE?
The original TOEFL iBT™ test introduction schedule stated that the TSE® would be discontinued as a stand-alone test as of July 2006. However, because TOEFL® PBT will continue to be administered to supplement the TOEFL iBT testing network, ETS will administer the TSE test to examinees who need a speaking score. Check the 2009 – 10 Information and Registration Bulletin (PDF) for information about registering for the TSE test. View testing locations and dates. This list will change as additional administration locations are established during the year.
Who accepts TSE scores?
Academic institutions, corporations, government agencies, health care systems and other organizations use TSE scores to guide their decisions regarding graduate assistantships in teaching and research, employment, licensing and certification.
What is the TSE test format?
The TSE uses speech activities such as narrating, recommending, persuading, and giving and supporting an opinion to measure your ability to speak in English. You will be asked to tell a story, describe a graph and answer questions. The session will be recorded and trained raters will determine your overall test score.
