Many programs start out using "in-house tests" to determine English levels. It's a bad idea that can lead to problems from poor placement success to complaints filed with the EEOC.

I recently found and updated an FAQ developed by ETS some years back that is quite helpful in explaining in a brief format some of the reasons using TOEIC tests provides quality advantage.

Those who want a bit more detail can also explore this publication fully focused on explaining TOEIC reliability, validity, and fairness. 

What is the purpose of the TOEIC tests?

The TOEIC tests are English language proficiency tests for people whose native language is not English. The tests assess the everyday English skills of people in the global workplace who may communicate in English both with other non-native speakers and those from English-speaking cultures. TOEIC tests use authentic tasks that reflect the kinds of language people actually use in the global marketplace.

The introduction of the TOEIC Speaking & Writing tests supplements the TOEIC Listening & Reading test, allowing direct evaluation of all four English-language skills.

Are the TOEIC tests superior and more scientific than other English tests?

The TOEIC tests meet the high ETS Standards for Quality and Fairness. This means that:

·         Different (alternate) versions of the same test yield scores that have the same meaning

·         All test takers are given access to materials that help them to understand test procedures

·         The difficulty of test questions is appropriate for efficient testing

·     Enough aspects of English language proficiency are tested to allow a test taker’s language skills to be reliably assessed. For the Speaking and Writing tests, scores do not depend on who (among many trained readers) scores the tests.

The ETS Standards for Quality and Fairness meet the “Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing” published jointly by the American Educational Research Association, the American Psychological Association and the National Council on Measurement in Education to promote the sound and ethical design, development, and delivery of fair, reliable and useful products and services.

A typical ETS test undergoes more than twenty reviews and quality assurance steps to determine its clarity, relevance, and freedom from bias, before tests are administered in an operational test. ETS is committed to ensuring fairness and opportunity for all learners worldwide.

How do ETS tests compare with other assessments?

ETS research has demonstrated that TOEIC test scores are strongly related to many other measures of English language proficiency such as TOEFL, the Michigan tests, and language standards such as the Common European Framework Reference. This indicates that the TOEIC tests are a valid measure of English language proficiency. In addition each form of the test undergoes a stringent fairness review to ensure that the test is unbiased and fair to candidates worldwide.

  What scores are needed to pass TOEIC tests?

The TOEIC tests are not the kind of tests that one “passes” or “fails.” Not every job or task requires the same level of English proficiency. Because they were developed specifically to meet the needs of the workplace, the TOEIC tests measure many levels of ability. They enable test takers to demonstrate what they currently can accomplish in English. They also make it possible for learners to set attainable goals and to measure their progress as their English includes

ETS provides support such as “Can Do” tables and academic descriptors to help companies set their own score standards based on the levels of English needed to carry out particular responsibilities.

Will ETS disclose TOEIC test items and answers after a test administration?

No. TOEIC test forms must be maintained under secure conditions. If the items and answer sheets were disclosed, such exposure would erode the integrity of the testing program.

The TOEIC program considers the maintenance of security to be of utmost importance. To offer score users the most valid and reliable measurements of English-language proficiency available, the TOEIC program continuously reviews and refines procedures to increase the security of the test before, during, and after administrations.

Who uses TOEIC tests?

For over 30 years, businesses, government, agencies, and English-language learning programs around the world have looked to TOEIC as the standard for English language assessment in the workplace. Today more than 10,000 institutions in 120 countries turn to TOEIC tests in making their hiring, placement, and training decisions. TOEIC is used across a wide range of industries, from electronics, manufacturing, and energy companies to the hospitality, healthcare, and financial sectors.

Who takes TOEIC tests?

Over 6 million individuals take TOEIC tests every year. They include—

·         Personnel who use English in real-life work settings such as businesses, hotels, hospitals, restaurants, international meetings, conventions, and sports events

·         Managerial, sales, and technical employees in international business, commerce, and industry who require English to communicate in their workplace.

·         Individuals preparing to enter the workplace

Throw out that questionable in-house today and add TOEIC tests to provide quality, widely recognized language assessment!

 —Lia Nigro, TOEIC USA Team