Test of English Proficiency (South Korea)

The Test of English Proficiency (TEPS) is a standardized English language proficiency test developed and administered in South Korea by Seoul National University Language Education Institute. It is widely used as a measure of English language skills for academic and professional purposes within South Korea.

TEPS assesses reading, listening, vocabulary, and grammar. The test is designed to evaluate the examinee's ability to understand and use English in various real-life contexts. Unlike some other standardized English tests, TEPS is primarily focused on British English pronunciation and usage, although American English is also understood and accepted.

The TEPS exam is often used by universities in South Korea for admissions, scholarship applications, and graduation requirements. Many companies also use TEPS scores in their hiring and promotion processes. The test is seen as a reliable indicator of an individual's functional English abilities.

TEPS is structured with multiple-choice questions across its sections. Scores are reported on a scale, typically ranging from 0 to 990, with higher scores indicating greater English proficiency. The specific grading system and score interpretation may vary slightly depending on the version of the test.

The TEPS program also includes various versions tailored for different age groups and skill levels, such as Junior TEPS and S-TEPS, each with its own format and scoring system. These versions cater to younger learners and individuals with lower levels of English proficiency.

TEPS faces competition in South Korea from other international English proficiency tests such as TOEFL and TOEIC. Each test has its strengths and weaknesses, and the choice of which test to take often depends on the specific requirements of the institution or organization to which the examinee is applying.