Alternative Language Evaluation Options for Students

Pipplet • 21 avril 2020
For many of us, learning a new language takes a lot of effort and commitment. Along with grammar mishaps, confusing conversations, and lapses in vocabulary comes gradual progress. However, it can sometimes be hard to measure your competency in a language in specific situations. Two of the most common language evaluation options for students include tests such as the IELTS and TOEFL. However, there are other great alternatives worth considering.

We take a look at the pros and cons of the IELTS and TOEFL exams and why it’s important to have other options. We also outline some of the top alternative language tests.

The Pros and Cons of IELTS and TOEFL

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) are two of the most well-recognized language tests in the world. They’re widely used to assess speaking, reading, and writing abilities. However, like any service, these two have their positive and negative points:  

The Pros:

The Cons:

The Importance of Having Language Evaluation Options

Although the IELTS and TOEFL exams have their benefits, they’re by no means perfect. Their focus tends to be purely on academic English, and test results can often take a while to come through. 

In the wake of the COVID-19 crisis, it’s also become obvious that there’s a need for remote language assessments. This option isn’t something that’s traditionally been available with the TOEFL and IELTS qualifications. 

Similarly, with more businesses shifting to online remote working, there will undoubtedly be new global opportunities for multilingual students. These candidates need a flexible and convenient way of proving their language abilities.  

With these factors in mind, it’s clear that having the choice of alternative language tests gives students the ability to find one that fits all of their needs. Options such as remote online language tests and virtual language assessments become incredibly useful.

A Top Alternative Language Test

Of the several alternatives to the TOEFL and IELTS qualifications, we feel that Pipplet’s own online language assessment is the ideal fit for all students. The Pipplet Fluency Exam (FLEX) gives you the chance to test your oral and written language skills remotely and get a recognized certification.


We’ve based our FLEX tests on the CEFR standard, meaning you get an accurate way of comparing your abilities. The scenario-based questions test a range of skills, ensuring your proficiency is truly tested. 


The focus of Pipplet’s language test is also on providing a service that can be accessed from anywhere. All you need is a computer with a working microphone. Our FLEX tests take just 30 minutes to complete, and you then get your results within 24 hours. 


Along with your test score, you also get a detailed assessment of your strengths and weaknesses, and you can share your results on LinkedIn.


We believe that FLEX provides the ideal way of remotely testing your language skills - it’s a convenient and affordable alternative to the TOEFL and IELTS assessments


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