TIE - Test of Interactive English

Why should I do this test?
The following are all excellent reasons for doing the TIE examination:

TIE has been designed according to sound methodological principles.
TIE is recognised by the Irish Department of Education and Science and for credito formativo in Italy.
TIE has been recognised by ASEP as an English language examination for Greece. Click here for details.
TIE assesses your levels of written and spoken English and separate grades are awarded for each part of the test
Assessment follows the Common European Framework and the TIE certificate is suitable for inclusion in a European Language or Europass Portfolio.
Rigorous quality assurance checks are in place to ensure validity and reliability.
TIE can be taken by learners at any level.
TIE can be taken at regular times every month in Ireland. In Italy exams are twice yearly (or at other times subject to a minimum number of applicants).
Detailed feedback is provided to teachers in TIE centres.
Certificates are sent out within ten working days - Click here to view a sample certificate

For advice on how to prepare please refer to the student guidelines or teachers’ handbook available from TIE Examinations Limited.

What does the test consist of?
The test is in two parts – a speaking test (OTIE) and a written test (WTIE).
In the oral test you present your project, talk about either your book or news story and talk to your partner to reach a decision based on some material the examiner will give you.
In the writing test you are required to produce two pieces of writing. You write about either your book or news story for the first task and for the second you write something which you have not prepared.

How long does the test take?
The writing test takes 1 hour and the speaking test takes 30 minutes (25 minutes for Junior TIE).

Where can I take the test?
The test can be taken in any TIE centre (usually the candidate’s own school) or at TIE Examinations Limited in the case of individual candidates.

How long in advance must I register?
You need to register ten working days before you wish to take the test but every effort will be made to facilitate late entries. Tests for individual candidates are arranged on a weekly basis.

How do I register?
Schools can register candidates by contacting TIE Examinations to arrange a date and time for the examination. They can then submit completed application forms at least five working days before the examination. Timetables will then be sent out in advance of the examination to facilitate preparation of rooms for the oral and written exams and the provision of an invigilator and/or coordinator.

Individual candidates should contact TIE at least 10 working days in advance of their preferred date to check availability; they can then submit an application form. In the case of both schools and individuals fees must be paid in advance and under no circumstances will results or certificates be issued before payment has been received.

How is the test assessed?
The test is assessed according to the Council of Europe’s Common European framework of Language Proficiency. The grades for the two examinations are slightly different:

When do I get my results?
Results are issued and certificates sent within 10 working days. All results are sent to the schools or centres entering the candidates and it is their responsibility to ensure that candidates receive their certificates.

Where can I get more information?
You can get more information from the Director of Studies at your school or you can e-mail us on info@tie.ie.