A uae standardized test and ielts vis-à-vis international english standards

This convergent mixed method study aimed at exploring the English context of the widely used Emirates Standardized Test (EmSAT) by juxtaposing it to its sequel, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). For this purpose, the study used the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) international standards which is used as a benchmark for both tests. The study focused on comparing the EmSAT and IELTS test specifications and their alignment with CEFR standards. The test takers reported on the EmSAT in terms of five categories: Test Scoring, Test Presentation and Format, Test Delivery, Test Structure and Preparation Practice. The results of this study revealed that both the EmSAT and IELTS are not aligned rigorously with the CEFR standards. Moreover, the EmSAT aligned mostly with the lower measurement levels of the CEFR while the IELTS aligned with the higher levels of CEFR. The test takers of the EmSAT reported some advantages and disadvantages about the EmSAT. Precisely, the students assigned high agreement with the EmSAT Test Scoring, Test Presentation and Format, Test Delivery respectively and to less degree to Test Structure and Preparation Practice.