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Test Information for Australian Schools

What is the AEAS test?

AEAS has been an industry leader in the provision of high quality assessment services for international school students since 1985.

The AEAS Test is designed specifically for school age students. Tests are tailored to assess the learning standards of students from primary years through to senior secondary years.

What is covered in the AEAS test?

The AEAS Test is more than an English language proficiency test. It includes

  • English language proficiency
  • General ability
  • Mathematical reasoning

The combined assessment provides a comprehensive English and ability profile for each student. Results can indicate a student’s suitability for the year level for which they have applied, and also areas in which they may require support – both are critical issues when students are changing between school systems, academic calendar years and/or language of instruction.

The AEAS Report includes a detailed account of English language proficiency.  It offers a valid and reliable way of identifying a student’s English language level, and the minimum number of weeks of intensive English language required to prepare a student for mainstream classes.

For further information on AEAS testing, please contact [email protected] or [email protected].

Find out how…

  • your school can arrange testing
  • to interpret the AEAS Report
  • the information can guide admissions staff when considering student applications
  • to set entry requirements based on the AEAS Report
  • the AEAS Report can inform academic staff when students are commencing at the school, in case individual support is needed

Download our information booklet

Why should my school use the AEAS test?

Selecting an AEAS Test ensures

  • a test designed specifically for school students, which is content and context appropriate
  • a testing experience and process of the highest integrity
  • regular updating of all test content and questions, strengthening the security and integrity of the test
  • a range of testing methodology including a written test, multiple choice and item completion questions, completed under formal examination conditions
  • face to face interviews which strengthen the accuracy of assessment of speaking skills
  • additional observational information enabled by face to face testing
  • independent, objective, trained and qualified test administrators
  • testing conducted under formal examination conditions and in a quiet place
  • thorough screening of student identification and documentation for authenticity.

AEAS testing arrangements are subject to regular quality assurance and monitoring.

AEAS works with experts in relation to test specifications, test development and methodology and trialling and analysis of test items. These experts include the Language Testing Research Centre at the University of Melbourne, and Educational Measurement Solutions.

AEAS testing is a vital component of our international student recruitment process.

It serves as a definitive benchmark for assessing a student’s English language proficiency at the time of application.

With a student’s AEAS Report, we’re empowered to make informed decisions, fostering fairness and accuracy in our student selection process.

Mike Howell, Director of Community Relations, The Geelong College, Victoria, Australia

When should my school use the AEAS test?

Pre Admission Testing

Why should your school test?

  1. Guiding admissions decisions
    • The AEAS Test and Report standardises and simplifies the application and admissions process
    • Informs and guides staff engaged in decision making about a student’s eligibility for entry to your school
  2. Understanding education background of student
    • The AEAS Test enables schools to understand standards and year levels of other school systems and schools in other countries, compared to those of your school
  3. Understanding school reports from around the world
    • The AEAS Test provides schools with a reliable assessment on which to understand a student’s English proficiency and general learning capabilities
    • Test results provide a context for meaningful interpretation of school reports from around the world
  4. Knowing a student is ready for your school
    • Allows schools to appropriately plan for and support the needs of students and their teachers

When should schools refer students for testing?

  1. Prior to the student submitting an application, with the AEAS Report being included with the student’s application, and/or
  2. Prior to the school offering a place of admission

Pre Commencement Testing

Why should students sit a pre commencement progress test?

  1. For students who have completed an intensive English language course and are due to commence at an English medium school
    • Provides a current assessment of the student’s progress, readiness for entry to English medium mainstream classes and any need for ongoing support
  2. For students where there is a significant time lag between pre admission testing and commencement at school
    • Provides a current assessment of progress and enable schools to plan for the needs and abilities of students

Who can arrange pre commencement testing?

  1. Testing can be organised by individual students by registering for a scheduled test date
  2. Testing can be organised by schools for individuals or groups of students
  3. Schools can arrange group testing to take place at their school, with an AEAS Test Administrator.

Schools should contact [email protected] to discuss testing options, arrangements and group test fees.

Benchmark Testing

The AEAS test is a reliable and standardised tool for benchmarking English language progress and proficiency for school students studying in an international or bilingual school, or studying at an English medium school.

Why should schools use AEAS to benchmark student progress?

  1. To assess students’ progress at key points in their studies, such as at commencement or completion of academic school years
  2. Provide an early opportunity to address concerns about progress with individual students
  3. Use results to inform review and modification of English language curriculum and development
  4. Use results to provide feedback to teaching staff

How can schools arrange benchmark testing?

Schools can arrange benchmark group testing to take place at their school. Arrangements can be tailored to school requirements.

Schools should contact [email protected] to discuss testing options, arrangements and benchmark test fees.