Why the TOEFL or the IELTS is a Requirement to Go Abroad

I have, in my career as a resource speaker for English proficiency exam orientations, been asked by many people who wish to study, work, and migrate abroad why exams such as the TOEFL and the IELTS exist in the first place. The easiest answer is this: it is a requirement.

But why is a test of English proficiency a requirement? Is it not enough that we, as Filipinos, have been using the English since childhood?

Apparently not. Here are some of the reasons why, despite using English for the longest time, it is still required that we take either the IELTS or the TOEFL.

1.       It is irrevocable proof that you can survive in an English-communicating environment. Regardless of the purpose of going abroad, those who will receive you there need to make sure that the transition for you (and for them) will be as smooth as possible. Assessing your ability to survive in an environment where English is the primary language of communication is important, because the more proficient you are, the better your chances of adapting to their country’s way of life.

2.       English proficiency level varies. Despite coming from the same country, your English communicating skills may significantly differ from others, especially since you are a non-native speaker of the language. This is because the training and the usage of one’s non-native language varies from person to person. Thus, a generalized assumptions regarding proficiency in the language is not a very reliable way of distinguishing the whether the communication skills of a person is adequate. This is why non-native communicators of English are required to take these assessment tests.

3.       It is a good way to up the points needed to be able to migrate. Exam results in the IELTS or the TOEFL do not only vouch for the communicating skills of the candidate, hey are also considered as criteria for points in migration. The higher your test score is, the higher the points you get. Thus there is higher probability that your application to be a migrant would be approved.

4.       Simply this: It is policy. Your future employer/ future school/migration consultant/ agency want hard core, tangible records of your English proficiency through a calibrated, international-standard assessment examination. Who are we to not comply?

English proficiency exams like the IELTS or TOEFL may seem like a waste of time and money for those applying to work, study, or migrate in English-speaking countries, but in truth, these exams do have their advantages.

The question, really, is not why it is a requirement. It would take huge effort to change the system so unless you are willing to go through the effort of changing policies, then you should refocus your efforts in answering the real question: How do I get the scores I need?

Good luck!