Let's Check Your English Level for Language Study Abroad

Hello, this is Awork Academy.

When you go on a language study abroad program, there's something that happens before classes even begin.
That's the English level test.

At language schools, not all students study in the same class.
Based on the results of the level test, students are divided into classes that match their English ability,
and take lessons together with classmates at the same level.

This is because
it improves comprehension in class and helps you make even better progress in English.

So how are the English levels for language study abroad divided?
It varies a bit by school, but generally they are divided into the following stages.

English level guide for language study abroad

1) Beginner

This is the most basic level, for those who can barely speak English at all.
Since English is part of compulsory education in Japan, it's very rare for Japanese students to be placed at this level.

2) Elementary

At this level, you can speak in short phrases using simple words.
If you feel that you're "not good at English" or "lack confidence," you may fall into this level.

3) Pre-Intermediate

At this stage, simple exchanges in English are possible, and
it's the level that the largest number of students belong to.

4) Intermediate

At this stage, you can handle everyday conversation without trouble, and
many students finish their language study abroad at this level.
While you may not be fluent, you're able to hold conversations and simple discussions.

5) Upper Intermediate

At this stage, you can handle everyday conversation without trouble, and
many students finish their language study abroad at this level.
While you may not be fluent, you're able to hold conversations and simple discussions.

6) Advanced

This is the top level, where you have almost no trouble conversing with native speakers or other foreigners,
and feel no hesitation speaking English.
It could also be described as the stage where you develop your own personal style of expression.

No need to worry even if your level is low

In Japan, since you study English for about 12 years, from elementary school through high school,
even if you feel like you "can't speak English at all,"
it's very rare to actually start from the Beginner level.

Most Japanese students start from an intermediate level.

And what matters most is this:
even if you start from a low level, there's absolutely no need to feel discouraged.

Your English level

How much you study

Your attitude toward learning

Your ability to keep going

—these are what will always help you improve, no matter when you start.

In fact, many people start from a low level
and go on to finish their language study abroad after reaching an advanced class.

While respecting your own pace,
set a target level and work toward achieving it little by little.

Summary | The level test is the starting point of growth

This time, we introduced the English level test given during language study abroad, and a guide to the levels.

The level test isn't meant to point out "what you can't do";
it's the starting point for learning in an environment that suits you.

On Awork Academy's official website,
we share useful information about language study abroad life on a variety of topics.

If there's anything you're curious about, please feel free to contact us anytime.