FAQ's
Why should I do this test?
The English Test for Academic and Professional Purposes (ETAPP) is a test of proficiency in English. It is designed to show you what level of English you have attained and whether your level is high enough:
- to attend a foundation course in a third level institution (B1)
- to attend a shorter pre-sessional preparation course (B2)
- to go straight into a third level undergraduate course (C1)
- to work in a professional context in Ireland
How do I prepare?
You need to do two tasks in preparation* for the oral component of the test:
- Prepare a presentation on a subject of interest to you. It should be a topic that you feel motivated to gather information on and talk about with enthusiasm. The topic can be related to your studies, or may be a topic of general interest.
Examples of topics you might like to talk about:
- a hobby
- some places of interest
- topics of cultural interest in your own country
- some aspect of your life here in Ireland
- something connected with your studies.
You should make notes on your topic and you may bring in some pictures, graphs etc if you feel they would be helpful when you make your presentation. You should be able to talk about the topic for about 3 minutes and answer questions from the examiner and the other candidate.
- Bring a source you found useful in preparing your presentation to the test and tell the examiner about it.
Examples of Sources
- a book
- an article from a newspaper, magazine or academic journal
- some information from the internet.
You should be able to explain why you found this source particularly interesting and, more generally, about the advantages and disadvantages of different information sources.
*For more advice on how to prepare please refer to the general guidelines available from TIE Examinations Limited or email info@tie.ie
There is no specific preparation required for the other components of the test but you should familiarise yourself with the format and the sample material.
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What does the test consist of?
The test is in four parts – speaking, listening, reading and writing.
In the listening test there are two parts; in the first part you will hear four short dialogues (once only) and will have to answer some multiple choice questions. In the second part you will hear a longer, lecture-style text (once only) and will be expected to take notes, fill in missing information and answer questions.
In the reading test there are two texts; the first text is between 1300 and 1500 words in length with 25 questions requiring you to take notes, fill in missing information and answer questions. The second text is between 600 and 700 words followed by 10 questions.
In the writing test you write one essay of approximately 250 words and a shorter letter or e-mail of between 50 and a 100 words. The 250-word essay will be based on the same topic as the reading and listening tests and you may use material from the listening and reading to help. The e-mail will be to your tutor or to a friend asking for advice, apologising, making arrangements etc.
In the speaking test you present your prepared topic, talk about a source you found useful, give your opinion on a controversial topic, and talk to your partner to reach a decision based on some material the examiner will give you.
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How long does the test take?
Listening 30 minutes
Reading 75 minutes
Writing 60 minutes
Speaking 30 minutes
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Where can I take the test?
The test can be taken at TIE Examinations Limited. Arrangements can also be made for groups of candidates to be examined in their own colleges or institutions.
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How often does the test take place?
The exam will take place at regular intervals throughout the year. The dates for the academic year 2008/2009 are:
- Friday 5th December 2008
- Friday 30th January 2009
- Friday 27th February 2009
- Friday 27th March 2009
- Friday 24th April 2009
- Friday 29th May 2009
- Friday 26th June 2009
- Friday 28th August 2009
- Friday 25th September 2009
- Friday 30th October 2009
- Friday 27th November 2009
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.
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How do I register?
You should contact TIE Examinations (info@tie.ie) at least 10 working days in advance of your preferred date to check availability; you can then submit an application form.
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How much does it cost?
The cost of the test for the academic year 2008/2009 is €125. Fees must be paid in advance at the time of registration.
When do I get my results?
Results are issued and sent within 10 working days. If you enter through a language school or third level institution all results are sent to your school and they will post your results to you. If you enter as an individual your results will be posted to the address on your application form.
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Where can I get more information?
You can request a copy of the student guidelines and some sample material by e-mailing info@tie.ie
Useful Websites
www.acels.ie for the Advisory Council for English Language Schools
www.coe.int is the Council of Europe website giving details of the Council of Europe Scale of Assessment and the European Language Portfolio/Europass
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