Teacher Discussion Forums

Following an interesting exchange under the 'language audit' thread, I thought it might be an idea to share experiences using the Cambridge BULATS test.

I just started using the computer version of the test this week and already one thing I've had to think about is the length of time it takes to do a test. The test can be limited to 75 minutes, but most people want to do a practice session first. Some individuals take the practice quite seriously and want to answer the questions as if it was already the test, which makes the session much longer than 75 minutes.

Consequently, I'm now telling people that their appointment can take up to 2 hours (75 min for the test, up to 20 min for the practice and some time with me to discuss the results and their training needs.)

What is your experience of this test?

Hello Strider,


WHat we do is that before the actual test we go through the practice session, too. However, we run it through the projector and go over it together as a briefing rather than a practice session. This way it only takes 10 - 15 minutes. LOL, I've done it so many times that I've got it memorised!

BTW, we run the BULATS test and our own speaking and writing tests. (The writing test is online.) However, we are also thinking of offering the BULATS writing and speaking tests. Does anyone have experience of this? I would be especially interested to hear about the QC process.

Emile