Aptis Exam – Examen Aptis

Aptis exam

Advantages –
The APTIS test, developed by the British Council, is a flexible English language proficiency exam designed to assess practical communication skills. It is commonly used by organizations, governments, and educational institutions to evaluate English ability in a professional or academic context. The test is available in different versions (e.g., Aptis General, Aptis Advanced, Aptis for Teachers, Aptis for Teens), but the core format remains similar.

Structure of the Exam

The APTIS test is computer-based and divided into five components. Four of them assess the main language skills, while one evaluates grammatical and vocabulary knowledge:

  1. Grammar and Vocabulary (Core Component)
    • 25 grammar questions and 25 vocabulary questions (50 in total).
    • Multiple-choice format.
    • This section underpins the rest of the test and is compulsory.
  2. Speaking
    • Conducted via a computer with microphone and headset.
    • Test-takers respond to prompts such as describing a picture, expressing opinions, or telling a short story.
    • Designed to measure fluency, accuracy, and ability to communicate ideas.
  3. Listening
    • Includes short audio clips (monologues, conversations, announcements).
    • Questions focus on identifying specific details, gist, and inference.
    • Typically presented in a multiple-choice format.
  4. Reading
    • Tasks range from matching headings to texts, reordering paragraphs, and answering comprehension questions.
    • Tests the ability to understand texts of varying lengths and styles, from notices to longer articles.
  5. Writing
    • Carried out on the computer.
    • Tasks may include completing forms, writing short messages, and composing longer texts such as emails or short essays.
    • Assesses accuracy, coherence, and appropriateness of written communication.

Timing

  • The total duration is usually 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on the version of the test and whether all four skills are taken.
  • The Grammar & Vocabulary section typically lasts about 25 minutes.
  • Each skill paper (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) takes 30–50 minutes.

Scoring

Institutions can choose to administer the full test (all skills) or select specific skills relevant to their needs.

Results are reported on a 0–50 scale per component, then aligned to the CEFR levels (A1–C).