Pipplet, an interesting alternative to BULATS

The BULATS, also known as Business Language Testing Service, is a business English level test developed by the University of Cambridge in the UK. Although it is one of the most reliable certifications that exists today to assess the linguistic level of a candidate in a professional context, there exists alternatives to BULATS, such as the test developed by the start-up Pipplet, and are just as effective.

BULATS : all you need to know

Today, to assess the English skills of a candidate in a recruitment context, recruiters have a multitude of alternatives to BULATS. Nevertheless, this test designed by the linguistic department of the British University of Cambridge remains one of the most used by employers. A success that is not surprising, given its high reliability (more than 70% accuracy).

BULATS stands for Business Language Testing Service. Unlike the other exams and certifications currently available, it recognizes the language level of the candidate at that time T. In this sense, it does not issue a degree for life. On the contrary, the certificate obtained is only valid for a fixed term (2 years).

Previously, BULATS existed in two formats, namely an online test and another on paper. However, since 2017, the paper version has disappeared. From now on, the exams will solely be done on a computer, and focusing on three key tests, which are:

  • a written portion;
  • an oral portion;
  • and written and oral comprehension

This test is adaptive. In other words, the software adjusts the difficulty of the questions according to the answers provided by the participant, and the exam stops when it has evaluated your true level. As a result, the test can last up to an hour and a half or even two hours.

Concerning the content itself, the oral portion will be corrected by two examiners who will analyze the phrases and the coherence of the answers given by the candidate, while the written portion will be corrected later on by another examiner.

Recruiters should note that equally reliable alternatives to BULATS exist to assess the applicant's level of professional English. Among these, the test we developed.

Pipplet test : an interesting alternative to BULATS

It is a known fact. To hope to catch the eye of the recruiter, job seekers exaggerate their language skills. Businesses understand this well. That's why many demand a high BULATS score. However, despite its high reliability, this test does not always seem to suit the actual needs of recruiters because it is more oriented towards academic skills. Especially since there is sometimes a real gap between the academic language skills of the candidate and the practical skills necessary for the position.

More and more employers are looking for an alternative to BULATS and are turning to our foreign language skills assessment service.

To test the real ability of the candidate to speak and write in a professional context, we use realistic simulation techniques (simulation of meetings with foreigners, making appointments with a foreign client ...). In addition, the tests are evaluated by a native examiner, which provides a score reflecting the actual level of the candidate.
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