What is TSE?
TSE measures the ability of non-native speakers of English to communicate orally in a North American English context.
Who is it for?
The TSE test has two separate registration categories even though the test itself is the same. The registration categories are as follows:
-
TSE-A
For teaching and research assistant applicants
For undergraduate or graduate school applicants
-
TSE-P
For all other individuals who are taking the TSE for personal or professional purposes.
Who administers the test?
The TSE program is administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS) through the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) program.
How is the test scored?
The TSE is scored on a scale of 20 - 60. Scores are reported in increments of 5.
Level Descriptors:
- 60 Communication almost always effective: task performed very competently
- 50 Communication generally effective: task performed competently
- 40 Communication somewhat effective: task performed somewhat competently
- 30 Communication generally not effective: task generally performed poorly
- 20 No effective communication: no evidence of ability to perform task
How long is my qualification valid for?
2 years
Where is this test recognised?
TSE scores are used at many North American institutions of higher education in the selection of international teaching assistants. The scores are also used for selection and certification purposes in the health professions and for the certification of English teachers overseas.
How do I register?
You can register online at: https://toeflrts.ets.org/OnlineRegistration/rts/StartPage.jsp
Alternatively, you can register by mail by receiving a copy of the Information Bulletin for TSE which contains a registration form, general description of the test, the test directions and a sample test. You can download the Bulletin or order it online at: http://toefl.ets.org/cbtpaper_req02a.cfm
If you prefer to complete a paper copy of the registration form, return it to the TOEFL/TSE Services with the test fee (see address below). Copies of the Information Bulletin can also be found at TSE test centres, American embassies, bi-national centres and language schools.
TOEFL/TSE Services
PO Box 6151
Princeton
NJ 08541-6151
USA
When can I take the test?
In test centres located in the US and Canada, TSE is administered 12 times a year. Check the Information Bulletin for test dates
Where can I take the test?
Test centres around the world, check the Information Bulletin for test centre locations.
How is the test structured?
|
Questions |
Task Examples |
Length of Response |
Test Duration |
|
Total: 9 questions |
Tell a story based on a six-picture sequence and answer a related question Describe a graph and answer a related question Respond to two questions about ideas Respond to three questions in the role of someone in a workplace situation |
Each response should be from 30 - 90 seconds |
20 minutes |
Test is delivered via audio-recording equipment and a test book.
Answers are recorded on an answer tape.
There is a warm up at the beginning of the test where the interviewer asks some general questions. This is not scored.







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