The new version of Linguaskilll is still an online, on-demand and highly accurate test of English. What makes it different from the previous version is that it is now a certificated exam, meaning that it can be used with confidence for high stakes purposes. For example, to test that students meet the English level required for graduation or admissions, or that prospective employees have the right skills to perform a certain job. The main changes to Linguaskill are that:
- Students will receive a certificate issued and underwritten by Cambridge
- It now reports to C2 (210 on the Cambridge English Scale). This means that higher education institutions and employers have more precise information on a candidate’s language level at the higher CEFR levels
- The Speaking and Writing modules have been revised
- There are new task types and content for Reading and Listening
- Now contains tasks and questions that prompt responses at the higher levels. This enables test takers to achieve certification to C2 if that is what they require
- Now comes with a range of integrated security features which are designed to prevent malpractice This means that organisations who need proof of English ability can be confident that a Linguaskill certificate holder meets the required level.
The new version of Linguaskill supports university entrance, progression or graduation, as well as admissions onto pathway and English Medium Instruction (EMI) courses. It can also be used in non-academic contexts such as teacher recruitment and training. The aim of the exam is to assess whether a candidate’s English language ability is at a level where they are ready to engage in university activities where they can develop the appropriate academic skills e.g. research skills, technical literacy, etc.
Linguaskill Business is for university students on business related courses, looking to enter the workplace at graduate level, or employees using the test for professional development or job promotion.
The aim of the exam is to assess whether a candidate’s English language ability is at a level where they are ready to engage in professional activities and operate successfully in workplace environments.
Yes, the new version of Linguaskill is recognised by organisations around the world. Test takers should always contact an institution directly for information on their specific admissions requirements. Discover a full list of recognising organisations.
No, the new and old versions of Linguaskill have differences in the test construction and task types. The practice materials are therefore specific to each version of the exam. Please consider which version of the exam you are taking and use the appropriate practice materials. Your local Cambridge Office and/or Test Centre will be able to guide you to the correct material.
New version of Linguaskill – 4 modules, Cambridge Certificate – New practice test materials
Old version of Linguaskill - 3 modules, Test Report - Old practice test materials
A new, short online course – Linguaskill Online Tutor Intro – is now available for the new version of the exam. It’s ideal for candidates looking for a concise but focused introduction to Linguaskill or Linguaskill Business. For a free demo of Linguaskill Tutor Intro, simply sign up for a free teacher’s account in Cambridge One and search for Linguaskill Online Tutor Intro demo in the My Library tab. For more help, please go to our Cambridge One Help Centre.
- Enhanced test day security will apply Secure exam browser locks down the exam to prevent malpractice
- Enhanced mandatory exam day ID checks and a candidate photo on their certificate
- Pre-Release Results Checks will run automatically and will include statistical and automarker checks
- Imposter detection through voice recognition & AI-powered facial recognition identity checks
- Human invigilators for in-centre testing
- Integrated Remote Proctoring with live proctors only for remote testing. AI Remote Proctoring even with in-centre testing. Available from April 2025.
All Linguaskill results are available within three to five working days of taking the exam.
As the certificate is provided digitally, there is no need to wait for a printed certificate. The certificate will therefore be available at the same time that results are ready, within three to five days of taking the exam. At that point, the certificate will be available to the candidate via the exam administration platform.
There is no set expiration for a Linguaskill certificate. Organisations that recognise Linguaskill as part of their admissions processes, recruitment policies or other purposes can choose how recently the test must have been taken.
Organisations that recognise Linguaskill can use Cambridge’s Result Verification Service (RVS) to check whether a result is authentic. This can be done instantly and securely through our Results Verification Service portal.
Candidates can also quickly and easily share their results with Recognising Organisations through Linguaskill’s administration platform. The Recognising Organisations will be notified and able to view details for each test component the candidate chose to share – via the RVS – including:
- Candidate full name, DOB and Test Day Photo
- Test results & test date
- Cambridge English Scale score and CEFR level
Yes, the Linguaskill Results Checker will still be available for organisations that need to check a result for the older version of Linguaskill.
Please check with the employer or educational institution to which you are applying for confirmation of their acceptance criteria.
We have a dedicated support site and a helpdesk available 24/7. Our exam administration platform delivers millions of test experiences a year and can process many tens of thousands of candidates taking the test simultaneously. Should a candidate not be able to complete their test:
- Exams can be restarted with no loss of time to the student
- Exams can be taken securely at a slightly different time, should the internet connection become overloaded
Our helpdesk is available 24/7. Centres who administer the test will also be able to provide support.
Yes, as with all Cambridge exams, there are special arrangements available for candidates with special requirements. Details can be found on our support site.
If you are a student or employee who wishes to take Linguaskill, you can use the Find a Centre service on our website to find your nearest centre. Please check which version of the test the Centre is offering and that it meets your needs.