Aptis Candidate

Guide
August 2017

www.britishcouncil.org/aptis
 Aptis Candidate Guide 1

Introducing the Aptis test

Aptis is an innovative global English assessment tool from the British Council.
It is an English test for adults and young adults, which can be used to assess
English language ability in all four skills – reading, writing, listening and
speaking.

Aptis doesn't test at a single level. Instead, it includes a range of questions,

which are designed to allow you to show your best ability. The test results are
reported either on a numerical scale (0–50) or as a Common European
Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level.

There are two tests to choose from. Aptis tests from A1-C on the CEFR and
is suitable for most test-takers. There is also an Aptis Advanced test which
assesses English language ability from B1-C2 and is for higher level
test-takers. If you are taking the Aptis Advanced test, you will find further
details on page 38 and onwards.

It's usually taken on a computer or a tablet, but the core test, the reading
test and the writing test can be taken using pen and paper. In some countries,
it is possible to take the speaking and listening tests over the phone.

The purpose of this guide is to help you prepare for these tests. There is an
overview of the tests and each component is described. There is also advice
on how to prepare for the test and information on how the test is marked.
 Aptis Candidate Guide 2

Contents

Test structure............................................................................................................................ ...............................................3

Aptis core test (grammar and vocabulary)............................................................................................. .................................5

Aptis reading test...................................................................................................................................... ..............................9

Aptis listening test.................................................................................................................................................................13

Aptis writing test.......................................................................................................................................... .........................15

Aptis speaking test................................................................................................................................................................27

How to take the online test...................................................................................................................................................38

Final checklist.............................................................................................................. ........................................................40

 Aptis Candidate Guide 3

Test structure
Aptis consists of five components: core (grammar and vocabulary), reading, listening, writing and speaking. The test-taker,
will prepare for the core test (everyone takes the core test) and all four skill components (reading, listening, writing and
speaking).

Reading Listening Writing Speaking

It is a good idea to take a practice test so that you fully understand what
you need to do. You can find a practice test on the Aptis website at:
www.britishcouncil.org/exam/aptis/take
 Aptis Candidate Guide 4

Test Test design Activity Format

Core Part 1 Grammar Sentence completion. 3-option multiple choice.
25 minutes Part 2 Vocabulary Word matching (similar meaning). Sets of 5 target words with
10 options.
Match words to definitions.

Sentence completion.

Word pairs or word combinations

(words commonly used together).
Reading Part 1 Sentence Choose words to 3-option multiple choice.
30 minutes comprehension complete sentences.
Part 2 Text cohesion Put sentences into the correct 7 sentences jumbled up.
order to make a story.
Part 3 Short text Choose the best word from 10 options and 7 empty
comprehension a list to make a sentence. spaces.
Part 4 Long text Match headings to 7 paragraphs and
comprehension paragraphs. 8 headings.
Listening Part 1 Word and number Listen to a phone message to 4-option multiple choice.
approximately recognition identify specific information.
55 minutes Part 2 Identifying specific Listen to monologues or
information conversation and identify
specific information.
Part 3 Inference Listen to monologues and
conversations and identify the
attitude, opinion or intention.
Writing Part 1 Word-level writing Respond to messages using 1-5 words for each question.
50 minutes individual words.

Part 2 Short text writing Write personal information. 20-30 words.

Part 3 Three written responses Respond to written questions on 30-40 words for each question.
to questions a social network-type website.
Part 4 Formal and informal Write an informal email to a 40-50 words for the
writing friend and a formal email to an informal email.
unknown person.
120-150 words for the
formal email.
Speaking Part 1 Personal Respond to three personal 30 seconds for each
12 minutes information information questions. response.
Part 2 Describe, express Describe a picture and answer 45 seconds for each response.
opinion and provide two additional questions of
reasons and increasing difficulty.
explanations
Part 3 Describe, compare and Describe two contrasting pictures 45 seconds for each
provide reasons and and answer two additional response.
explanations questions of increasing difficulty.
Part 4 Discuss personal Answer three questions 1-minute preparation time.
experience and opinion on an abstract topic.
on an abstract topic 2-minutes response time.
 Aptis Candidate Guide 5

Aptis core test (grammar and vocabulary)

It consists of two parts. The first part assesses your knowledge of English grammar. The second part assesses your
knowledge of English vocabulary.

Test design Description Preparation

Part 1 In this part of the test, you will answer 25 To know which parts of grammar are
Grammar questions. tested, see the British Council / EAQUALS
core inventory. This is free and available
Most of the questions test formal written online at:
English. A small number of questions test http://englishagenda.britishcouncil.org/sites/defa
spoken English such as knowing the ult/files/attachments/books-british-council-
appropriate grammar to use in a particular eaquals-core-inventory.pdf
situation (formal or informal situations, for
example). One great way to prepare for the grammar
test is to use the British Council's
All 25 questions are in the format of LearnEnglish Grammar App:
a 3-option multiple choice. http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/
Complete a sentence by choosing grammar-and-vocabulary
the correct word.

Part 2 In this part of the test, you have 25 questions. To help you prepare for this part of the test, the
Vocabulary These are presented in sets of LearnEnglish website has games and activities to
five words (the words we are testing) with ten help you improve your vocabulary.
options from which to choose. http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en/grammar
-and-vocabulary
There are a number of question types:
There are also many useful websites, for example:
www.englishclub.com
Word matching: find a word with a meaning
similar to the target word. Another useful tip is to take note of interesting
words or word combinations when you read
Word definition: match a definition to the correct English texts.
word.

Word usage: complete a sentence by

choosing the correct word.

Word pairs or word combinations: these are

usually the most difficult questions, as you need
to know what word (from a list) is most commonly
found with the target word (e.g. birthday card is
common but blue card is not).
 Aptis Candidate Guide 6

Sample grammar questions

There are two question types. The first focuses on written English grammar and the second focuses on the use of English
grammar when speaking.

Here are some examples:

1. Written grammar
He me that the machine was broken.
told
spoke
said

My boss says that I to finish the report by Friday.

must
have
should

My new computer works faster than my old one.

many
more
much

I have worked for this company I left university.

since
after
from

2. Spoken grammar
John: She's French, isn't she?
Ahmed: No, she's from Belgium.
exactly
actually
anyway

Zeynep: I really don't feel like going to see that movie tonight.
Peter: Ok. we can go next week instead.
Maybe
However
Nevertheless
 Aptis Candidate Guide 7

Sample vocabulary questions

1/ The first question type tests your ability to match words with similar meanings from a list of options. You need to click
on the arrows and choose the similar word.

Here is an example:

2/ For the next question type you need to match a definition to a word. Click on the arrow and choose the word
that matches the definition.

Here is an example:
 Aptis Candidate Guide 8

3/ The next question type asks you to identify a word from a list that is commonly used with the given word.

4/ There is a final question type that asks you to complete a sentence using a word from a list.
 Aptis Candidate Guide 9

Aptis reading test

The test assesses your reading ability. The tasks become more difficult as the test progresses.

Test design Description Preparation

Part 1 In this part, you need to choose a word (choice of Make sure you read each sentence fully and the
three) to complete the sentence. There are five options before trying to answer this question.
Sentence sentences to complete.
comprehension The best way to become a better reader is to
This part assesses your ability to read a sentence practice. A number of publishers produce graded
and to complete the sentence with an readers that might be of use. For example, try:
appropriate word.
Cambridge Bookworms Starter / Stage 1
Cambridge Readers – Level 1
Penguin Readers – Level 1
Macmillan Readers – Starter / Beginner
Headway Skills series.

Part 2 In this part you will see seven sentences. They Read all of the sentences carefully first. Then,
belong to a single story that has been jumbled up. decide on the order (the first sentence is
Text cohesion Your task is to click on the sentences and drag identified for you).
them to the correct position in the story.
Appropriate readers for this level are:
This part assesses your knowledge of the
Cambridge Bookworms Stage 1 and 2
cohesion of a text. You are looking for clues in
Cambridge Readers – Level 2
each sentence that show how it links to other
Penguin Readers – Level 3
sentences.
Macmillan Readers – Elementary.

Part 3 In this part you will need to read a text (about 150 Read over the whole text before attempting the
words). The task is to complete the text by questions.
Short text selecting the appropriate words (from a list) to fill
comprehension in the gaps. To complete all of the text you need Appropriate readers for this level are:
to understand more than just a sentence. Cambridge Bookworms Stage 2 and 3
Cambridge Readers – Level 3, 4 and 5
This part tests your ability to read and understand
Penguin Readers – Level 4
short texts.
Macmillan Readers – Pre Intermediate.
Part 4 This part consists of a long text (about 750 words) Read the main text carefully but as quickly as you
with a series of headings. The task is to match the can. Then carefully read the headings. Do all this
Long text headings to paragraphs in the text (there are seven before starting the task. Look for clues to connect
comprehension to be done). There is always an extra heading that the headings to the paragraphs; these might be
does not fit with any paragraph. similar words, ideas or topics.

This part is designed to test your ability to read Appropriate readers for this level are:
and understand a long text. In addition, you need
Cambridge Bookworms Stage 4, 5 and 6
to be able to demonstrate an understanding of
Cambridge Readers – Level 4, 5 and 6
how the headings reflect the paragraphs in
Penguin Readers – Level 5 and 6
different ways (sometimes using similar words,
sometimes similar ideas, or by sharing a topic). Macmillan Readers – Intermediate and
Upper Intermediate.
 Aptis Candidate Guide 10

Sample reading questions

Reading part 1
In this part, you must select the appropriate word from a drop-down list. You should complete this part in about three
minutes.
 Aptis Candidate Guide 11

Reading part 2
In the second part, you must sort the sentences into the correct order to make a story. Do this by clicking on a sentence
and dragging it to its correct position.
 Aptis Candidate Guide 12

Reading part 3
In the third part, you must select the word from the group at the bottom of the screen and drag a word into each of the
seven empty boxes. There are ten word options and only seven spaces.

If you change your mind, that's not a problem as you can move the words around until you make you final decision.

Reading part 4
For the final part, it is necessary to scroll the reading text to see all of it. Do this by clicking on the side bar (as shown) and
move the bar up and down.

Select the appropriate heading from the drop-down list on the right-hand side.
 Aptis Candidate Guide 13

Aptis listening test

The listening test has 25 questions. There are a number of things to remember about the listening test:

1. All 25 questions use the 4-option multiple choice format.

2. Each listening input has a single question.
3. You may listen to the question a second time if you want.
4. The three types of questions are described below. In the test, these types of questions may not
appear in this sequence.

Test design Description Preparation

Part 1 In these questions you listen to a short phone Visit the British Council's LearnEnglish website for
message and you need to identify specific lots of very useful activities, tips, Apps and
Word and information such as a number (e.g. phone number, podcasts: http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en
number time) or a word.
recognition

Part 2 In these questions you listen to short There are quite a few useful practice videos and
conversations with two speakers or to a podcasts on the LearnEnglish website, so that's a
Identifying monologue and you need to identify specific very good starting point. In addition, it may be
specific, information. For example, where do they want to useful to try to listen to as much English as
factual go? What do they want to buy? possible (e.g. films, television or radio). If you have
information access to the internet, you can easily find
materials, for example the BBC World Service radio
(http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldserviceradio).

Part 3 In these questions you again listen to short There are a number of higher-level podcasts on
conversations with two speakers or to a the LearnEnglish website. Also try the BBC World
Inference monologue. The focus here is not on Service radio station.
understanding the meaning of what the speakers
are saying, but on identifying clues in their The strategies you need include paying specific
language or tone to help identify the attitude of attention to intonation and stress when somebody
the speaker, their intention or opinion. is speaking. Listening to authentic speech such as
television soap operas or films is a good way to
practice.
 Aptis Candidate Guide 14

Sample listening questions

Remember that if you'd like to hear a question for a second time just click on the Play button. The system will not allow
you to listen more than twice.

Listening part 1

Listening part 2

Listening part 3
 Aptis Candidate Guide 15

Aptis writing test

There are four parts to the writing test. You will fill in forms, interact in a social media-type written conversation and write
emails. All writing tasks are marked by an examiner.

Make sure you fully understand the questions. Plan what you are going to write and then edit your writing before clicking
to the next question. The most common mistakes are the following:

Not answering the questions (going off-topic). Read the question and understand what you need to do.
Writing too much but with poor grammar, spelling and punctuation. Keep to the word count and focus on accuracy.
Not using a variety of sentence structures.
Not writing in sentences or paragraphs.
Using phone texting spelling.

The total time allowed for the writing test is 50 minutes. The timings for each section below are recommendations only.

Test design Description Preparation

Part 1 In the first part you have joined a club, course or In this part, the focus is on communicative
activity and must answer a series of five text competence (i.e. spelling, capitalization and
Word-level messages from other members of the club, course grammar will not be considered).
writing or activity. There is no extended writing in this part
(no sentence writing), just individual words.

You should spend no more than three minutes on

this part.

Part 2 This part is about form filling – this time, you need You are asked to write 20-30 words. The focus is
to write in sentences. on writing sentences that are on-topic and have
Short text accurate grammar, punctuation and spelling.
writing You should spend no more than seven minutes
on this part. A common error is to write more than 30 words
and make too many mistakes. Keep to the word
limit and focus on accuracy. Another common
error is to write in all capital letters.
Part 3 In this part you will have a social network-type Make sure you correctly answer all three questions
interaction. You will receive three questions and and don’t go off-topic.
Three written need to respond.
parts of text, all Focus on accurate spelling and punctuation and
of which require You should spend no more than ten minutes on write text that is cohesive and coherent.
responses this part.
Keep to the word count of 30-40 words per answer.
Part 4 This part requires that you write an informal email For this part, make sure you keep to the word
to a friend and a more formal email to an unknown count of 40-50 words for the first email and
Formal and person. Both emails are in reaction to information 120-150 words for the second email.
informal writing about a change.
Make sure your answers are different. The first
You should spend no more than 20 minutes on email should clearly be an informal email to a
this part. friend or close family member, while the second
should clearly be a formal email to a company.

You are also assessed on how broadly and

accurately you can write so use a wide range of
vocabulary, grammar and cohesive devices.
 Aptis Candidate Guide 16

Sample writing questions

Writing part 1
You need to write five pieces of information. This part is not worth many marks so don’t spend too much time on it.

Example of a high-level answer (5/5) for Part 1:

 Aptis Candidate Guide 17

You need to write five pieces of information. This part is not worth many marks so don’t spend too much time on it.

Example of a low-level answer (1/5) for Part 1:

 Aptis Candidate Guide 20

Writing part 2
There may be one or two questions. The areas assessed are task fulfilment / topic relevance, grammatical range and
accuracy, punctuation, vocabulary range and accuracy, and cohesion. Here is the marking scale:

5 Likely to be above A2 level.

B1 (or
above)

4 On-topic.
Uses simple grammatical structures to produce writing at the sentence level.
A2.2
Mostly accurate punctuation and spelling.
Vocabulary is sufficient to respond to the question(s).
Some attempts at using simple connectors and cohesive devices to link sentences.

3 On-topic.
Uses simple grammatical structures to produce writing at the sentence level.
A2.1
Punctuation and spelling mistakes are noticeable.
Vocabulary is mostly sufficient to respond to the question(s) but inappropriate lexical choices
are noticeable.
Response is a list of sentences with no use of connectors or cohesive devices to link sentences.

2 Not fully on-topic.

Grammatical structure is limited to words and phrases.
A1.2
Little or no use of accurate punctuation. Spelling mistakes common.
Vocabulary is limited to very basic words related to personal information and is not sufficient to
respond to the question(s).
No use of cohesion.

1 Response limited to a few words or phrases.

Grammar and vocabulary errors so serious and frequent that meaning is unintelligible.
A1.1

0 No meaningful language or all responses are completely off-topic (e.g. memorized script,
guessing).
A0
 Aptis Candidate Guide 21

Example of a high-level (5/5) response for Part 2:

Keeps to the word count (20-30 words).

Clear sentences.
Answers on-topic. Replies fully to the input.
Accurate grammar, spelling and punctuation. It is acceptable to have grammar and spelling errors and still
score 5/5 if the errors are not serious (i.e. the writing can be understood and the errors are not basic).
 Aptis Candidate Guide 22

Writing part 3
In part 3, you will answer social media-type questions which will look like the following:
 Aptis Candidate Guide 23

The areas assessed are task fulfilment / topic relevance, punctuation, grammatical range and accuracy, vocabulary
range and accuracy and cohesion. Here is the marking scale:

5 Likely to be above the B1 level.

B2 (or
above)

4 Responses to all three questions are on-topic and show the following features:
B1.2 Control of simple grammatical structures.
Punctuation and spelling mostly accurate.
Vocabulary is sufficient to respond to the questions.
Uses simple cohesive devices to organize responses as a linear sequence of sentences.

3 Responses to two questions are on-topic and show the following features:
B1.1 Control of simple grammatical structures.
Punctuation and spelling mostly accurate.
Vocabulary is sufficient to respond to the questions.
Uses simple cohesive devices to organize responses as a linear sequence of sentences.

2 Responses to at least two questions are on-topic and show the following features:
A2.2 Uses simple grammatical structures to produce writing at the sentence level.
Punctuation and spelling mistakes are noticeable.
Vocabulary is not sufficient to respond to the question(s). Inappropriate lexical choices are
noticeable and sometimes impede understanding.
Responses are lists of sentences and not organized as cohesive texts.

1 Response to one question is on-topic and shows the following features:

A2.1 Uses simple grammatical structures to produce writing at the sentence level.
Punctuation and spelling mistakes are noticeable.
Vocabulary is not sufficient to respond to the question(s). Inappropriate lexical choices are
noticeable and sometimes impede understanding.
Responses are lists of sentences and not organized as cohesive texts.

0 Performance below A2, or no meaningful language or the responses are completely off-topic (e.g.
memorized script, guessing).
 Aptis Candidate Guide 24

Example of a high-level (5/5) response for Part 3:

Keeps to the word count (30-40 words for each answer).

Replies fully to each piece of input.
Sentences follow on from one another in a coherent manner.
Uses a range of grammar and vocabulary.
Accurate grammar, punctuation and spelling. It is ok to have errors but the writing must be understood.
 Aptis Candidate Guide 25

Writing part 4
The areas assessed are task fulfilment and register, grammatical range and accuracy, vocabulary range and
accuracy, cohesion.

6 Likely to be above C1 level.

C2

5 Response shows the following features:

Response on-topic and task fulfilled in terms of appropriateness of register. Two clearly
C1
different registers.
Range of complex grammar constructions used accurately. Some minor errors occur but
do not impede understanding.
Range of vocabulary used to discuss the topics required by the task. Some awkward
usage or slightly inappropriate lexical choices.
A range of cohesive devices is used to clearly indicate the links between ideas.

4 Response on-topic and task fulfilled in terms of appropriateness of register: appropriate register
used consistently in both responses. Response shows the following features:
B2.2
Some complex grammar constructions used accurately. Errors do not lead to
misunderstanding.
Minor errors in punctuation and spelling occur but do not impede understanding.
Sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topics required by the task.
A limited number of cohesive devices are used to indicate the links between ideas.

3 Response partially on-topic and task partially fulfilled in terms of appropriateness of register:
Appropriate register used consistently in one response. Response shows the following features:
B2.1
Some complex grammar constructions used accurately. Errors do not lead to
misunderstanding.
Minor errors in punctuation and spelling occur but do not impede understanding.
Sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topics required by the task.
A limited number of cohesive devices are used to indicate the links between ideas.

2 Response partially on-topic and task not fulfilled in terms of appropriateness of register:
appropriate register not used consistently in either response. Response shows the following
B1.2
features:
Control of simple grammatical structures.
Punctuation and spelling is mostly accurate. Errors do not impede understanding.
Limitations in vocabulary make it difficult to deal fully with the task.
Uses only simple cohesive devices. Links between ideas are not always clearly indicated.

1 Response not on-topic and task not fulfilled in terms of appropriateness of register. No evidence
of awareness of register. Response shows the following features:
B1.1
Control of simple grammatical structures.
Punctuation and spelling is mostly accurate. Errors do not impede understanding.
Limitations in vocabulary make it difficult to deal fully with the task. Errors impede
understanding in most of the text.
Uses only simple cohesive devices. Links between ideas are not always clearly indicated.

0 Performance below B1, or no meaningful language or the responses are completely off-topic
A1/A2 (e.g. memorized script, guessing).
 Aptis Candidate Guide 26

‘Register’ means adapting your language to different situations. For example, your language should be different when you
are writing professionally and when you are writing to a friend. The first part is an intimate or casual register used among
family members and close friends. The second part is a formal register used between strangers. You need to show that you
understand the difference. In the second part you should write formally.

Example of a high-level (5/5) response for Part 4:

Understands the difference in writing to a friend as opposed to writing to an authority. The first text is
casual and the second text is formal.
Answers the input in a coherent manner. The text makes sense.
Writing is clear, assured and precise using a range of cohesive devices to make the writing flow.
Grammar and vocabulary is broad and accurate.
 Aptis Candidate Guide 27

Aptis speaking test

Each question has a maximum amount of time to speak but you can end the recording early by clicking on a stop button. If
you finish early, you may not score at the highest levels.

The most common mistakes are the following:

Not doing a proper sound check.

Not speaking clearly.
Not answering the questions.
Giving under-length answers – not using the full amount of time to speak.
Overusing words such as 'and' and 'so'.
Speaking in simple sentence lists.
Not using a variety of sentence structures.

Test design Description Preparation

Part 1 In this part, you are asked to answer three To prepare for this task it is a good idea to
questions on personal topics. You are expected practice introducing yourself and talking about
Personal to talk for 30 seconds per question. your personal experiences. Think about
information familiar topics (e.g. holidays, weekend activities,
sports) and practice giving general
information.

Part 2 In this part you are asked to describe a You should try to be fluent and spontaneous,
photograph and then answer two questions showing little sign of effort. Make sure you
Describe, express related to the topic illustrated in the photo. The answer all three questions.
opinion and three questions increase in complexity (from
provide reasons description to opinion). You are expected to talk
and explanations for 45 seconds per question.

Part 3 In this part you are asked to compare two To prepare for this task, it is a good idea to
pictures and then answer two questions related to practice comparing two different things (e.g. two
Describe, the topic. The three questions increase in cities or two houses). Focus on describing their
compare and complexity (from description to speculation). You advantages and disadvantages.
provide reasons are expected to talk for 45 seconds for each
and explanations question. With speculation, it is important to make sure you
are using the correct grammatical structures.

Part 4 In the final part you will see a picture and be A common error is to describe the photo. You will
asked three questions about an abstract topic. not receive a high score if you describe the
Discuss You are given one minute to prepare an answer photo. The questions are more abstract (e.g. how
personal and can take notes. You are expected to talk for do you feel about something).
experience and two minutes.
opinion on an Another common error is to go off-topic. Focus
abstract topic on answering each question in a clear, smoothly
flowing, and well-structured speech.

To prepare for this part it is a good idea to

practice speaking for two minutes on an abstract
topic (e.g. How do you feel about ?).

Make sure you practice using your planning time

wisely to structure what you are going to say.
 Aptis Candidate Guide 28

Sample speaking questions

Speaking part 1
In this part you will answer some questions about yourself. Listen to the instructions and speak clearly into your
microphone when you hear the signal.

Each part of the test will appear automatically.

When the time to record comes, the timer begins. This tells you the amount of time you have been recording for (in this
case 14 seconds).
 Aptis Candidate Guide 29

As each new question appears, the same procedure is followed.

 Aptis Candidate Guide 30

The areas assessed are task fulfilment / topic relevance, grammatical range and accuracy, vocabulary
range and accuracy, pronunciation and fluency. Here is the marking scale.

5 Likely to be above A2 level.

B1 (or
above)
4 Responses to all three questions are on-topic and show the following features:
A2.2 Some simple grammatical structures used correctly but basic mistakes systematically occur.
Vocabulary is sufficient to respond to the questions, although inappropriate lexical
choices are noticeable.
Mispronunciations are noticeable and frequently place a strain on the listener.
Frequent pausing, false starts and reformulations but meaning is still clear.

3 Responses to two questions are on-topic and show the following features:
A2.1 Some simple grammatical structures used correctly but basic mistakes systematically occur.
Vocabulary is sufficient to respond to the questions, although inappropriate lexical
choices are noticeable.
Mispronunciations are noticeable and frequently place a strain on the listener.
Frequent pausing, false starts and reformulations but meaning is still clear.

2 Responses to at least two questions are on-topic and show the following features:
A1.1 Grammatical structure is limited to words and phrases. Errors in basic patterns and simple
grammar structures impede understanding.
Vocabulary is limited to very basic words related to personal information.
Pronunciation is mostly unintelligible except for isolated words.
Frequent pausing, false starts and reformulations impede understanding.

1 Response to one question is on-topic and shows the following features:

A1.1 Grammatical structure is limited to words and phrases. Errors in basic patterns and simple
grammar structures impede understanding.
Vocabulary is limited to very basic words related to personal information.
Pronunciation is mostly unintelligible except for isolated words.
Frequent pausing, false starts and reformulations impede understanding.

0 No meaningful language or all responses are completely off-topic (e.g. memorized script,
guessing).
A0
 Aptis Candidate Guide 31

Speaking part 2
In this part you will see a photo and answer three questions. You have 45 seconds to respond to each question.
 Aptis Candidate Guide 32

The areas assessed are task fulfilment / topic relevance, grammatical range and accuracy, vocabulary range and
accuracy, pronunciation, fluency and cohesion. Here is the marking scale.

5 Likely to be above B1 level.

B2 (or
above)

4 Responses to all three questions are on-topic and show the following features:
B1.2 Control of simple grammatical structures.
Sufficient range and control of vocabulary for the task. Errors occur when expressing
complex thoughts.
Pronunciation is intelligible but inappropriate mispronunciations put an occasional strain
on the listener.
Some pausing, false starts and reformulations.
Uses only simple cohesive devices. Links between ideas are not always clearly indicated.

3 Responses to two questions are on-topic and show the following features:
B1.1 Control of simple grammatical structures.
Sufficient range and control of vocabulary for the task.
Pronunciation is intelligible but inappropriate mispronunciations put an occasional strain
on the listener.
Some pausing, false starts and reformulations.
Uses only simple cohesive devices. Links between ideas are not always clearly indicated.

2 Responses to at least two questions are on-topic and show the following features:
A2.2 Uses some simple grammatical structures correctly but systematically makes basic mistakes.
Vocabulary will be limited to concrete topics and descriptions.
Mispronunciations are noticeable and put a strain on the listener.
Noticeable pausing, false starts and reformulations.
Cohesion between ideas is limited. Responses tend to be a list of points.

1 Response to one question is on-topic and shows the following features:

A2.1 Uses some simple grammatical structures correctly but systematically makes basic mistakes.
Vocabulary will be limited to concrete topics and descriptions.
Mispronunciations are noticeable and put a strain on the listener.
Noticeable pausing, false starts and reformulations.
Cohesion between ideas is limited. Responses tend to be a list of points.

0 Performance below A2, or no meaningful language or the responses are completely off-topic
(e.g. memorized script, guessing).
 Aptis Candidate Guide 33

Speaking part 3
In this part you will see two photos and again answer three questions.
 Aptis Candidate Guide 34

The marking scale is the same as for part 2.

5 Likely to be above B1 level.

B2 (or
above)

4 Responses to all three questions are on-topic and show the following features:
B1.2 Control of simple grammatical structures.
Sufficient range and control of vocabulary for the task
Pronunciation is intelligible but inappropriate mispronunciations put an occasional strain
on the listener.
Some pausing, false starts and reformulations.
Uses only simple cohesive devices. Links between ideas are not always clearly indicated.

3 Responses to two questions are on-topic and show the following features:
B1.1 Control of simple grammatical structures.
Sufficient range and control of vocabulary for the task.
Pronunciation is intelligible but inappropriate mispronunciations put an occasional strain
on the listener.
Some pausing, false starts and reformulations.
Uses only simple cohesive devices. Links between ideas are not always clearly indicated.

2 Responses to at least two questions are on-topic and show the following features:
A2.2 Uses some simple grammatical structures correctly but systematically makes basic mistakes.
Vocabulary will be limited to concrete topics and descriptions.
Mispronunciations are noticeable and put a strain on the listener.
Noticeable pausing, false starts and reformulations.
Cohesion between ideas is limited. Responses tend to be a list of points.

1 Response to one question is on-topic and shows the following features:

A2.1 Uses some simple grammatical structures correctly but systematically makes basic mistakes.
Vocabulary will be limited to concrete topics and descriptions.
Mispronunciations are noticeable and put a strain on the listener.
Noticeable pausing, false starts and reformulations.
Cohesion between ideas is limited. Responses tend to be a list of points.

0 Performance below A2, or no meaningful language or the responses are completely off-topic (e.g.
memorized script, guessing).
 Aptis Candidate Guide 35

Speaking part 4
In this part, you again need to answer three questions but this time you answer them all in one response. You have one
minute to prepare a structured response. A timer on the screen will indicate how long you have left. When preparation
time is over, the message at the bottom (‘you now have two minutes to talk') appears and you may speak until the
recording automatically stops after two minutes.
 Aptis Candidate Guide 36

During the preparation time, it is important to take notes, as it will help you organize and remember your response. Rather
than writing out exactly what you want to say, make brief notes and use these to structure your speech. Here are some
examples of note taking:

1. Tell me about a personal achievement or award you have received.

exam certificate
at school
highest score in class
teacher very pleased
parents proud

2. How did you feel about this achievement?

surprised
exam was very difficult
feelings of satisfaction and relief

3. Do awards encourage people to do their best?

awards: a good thing
encourage excellence
evidence/recognition of success
awards: a bad thing
make some people too competitive
can create disappointment if you don't win
 Aptis Candidate Guide 37

Areas assessed are task fulfilment / topic relevance, grammatical range and accuracy, vocabulary range and
accuracy, pronunciation, fluency and cohesion. Here is the marking scale:

6 Likely to be above C1 level.

C2

5 Response addresses all three questions and is well-structured.

C1 Uses a range of complex grammar constructions accurately.
Uses a range of vocabulary to discuss the topics required by the task.
Pronunciation is clearly intelligible.
Backtracking and reformulations do not fully interrupt the flow of speech.
A range of cohesive devices are used to clearly indicate the links between ideas.

4 Responses to all three questions are on-topic and show the following features:
B2.2 Some complex grammar constructions used accurately. Errors do not lead to
misunderstanding.
Sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topics required by the task. Inappropriate
lexical choices do not lead to misunderstanding.
Pronunciation is intelligible. Mispronunciations do not put a strain on the listener or lead to
misunderstanding.
Some pausing while searching for vocabulary but this does not put a strain on the listener.
A limited number of cohesive devices are used to indicate the links between ideas.

3 Responses to two questions are on-topic and show the following features:
B2.1 Some complex grammar constructions used accurately. Errors do not lead to
misunderstanding.
Sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topics required by the task. Inappropriate
lexical choices do not lead to misunderstanding.
Pronunciation is intelligible. Mispronunciations do not put a strain on the listener or lead to
misunderstanding
Some pausing while searching for vocabulary but this does not put a strain on the listener.
A limited number of cohesive devices are used to indicate the links between ideas.

2 Responses to at least two questions are on-topic and show the following features:
B1.2 Control of simple grammatical structures. Errors occur when attempting complex structures.
Limitations in vocabulary make it difficult to deal fully with the task.
Pronunciation is intelligible but occasional mispronunciations put an occasional strain on the
listener.
Noticeable pausing, false starts, reformulations and repetition.
Uses only simple cohesive devices. Links between ideas are not always clearly indicated.

1 Response to one question is on-topic and shows the following features:

B1.1 Control of simple grammatical structures. Errors occur when attempting complex structures.
Limitations in vocabulary make it difficult to deal fully with the task.
Pronunciation is intelligible but occasional mispronunciations put an occasional strain on the
listener.
Noticeable pausing, false starts, reformulations and repetition.
Uses only simple cohesive devices. Links between ideas are not always clearly indicated.

0 Performance not sufficient for B1, or no meaningful language, or the responses are completely
A1/A2 off-topic (memorized or guessing).
 Aptis Candidate Guide 38

How to take the online test

When you start every Aptis test, the introductory screen looks like this:

On screen, the questions will appear like this:

 Aptis Candidate Guide 39

Sound recording
Make sure your test is taken in a quiet room.

The following screen will appear. This allows you to check the sound recording system on your computer.

Once you click Start Check, the screen below appears. You will now need to record a sample of speech.

When you have finished your recording the following screen appears. You can replay the recorded sound. If you can hear
it properly click on Yes (start my test), if not click on No (try again).

During the microphone check, make sure you say a whole sentence and not just one or two words. Assessing the quality of
the microphone needs more than a few words.
 Aptis Candidate Guide 40

Final checklist
We hope that these notes have helped you prepare for your Aptis. Here is a checklist to make sure you are fully prepared:

Review the different grammar parts:

http://englishagenda.britishcouncil.org/sites/default/files/attachments/books-british-council-eaquals-core-
inventory.pdf
Visit the LearnEnglish website to prepare for the grammar and vocabulary test:
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en.
Visit the English Club to prepare for the vocabulary test:
www.englishclub.com.
Review the section 'How to take an online test’ and pay particular attention to the section on the
sound recording.
Do a practice test so that you are familiar with the test structure and software?
www.britishcouncil.org/exams/aptis.
Practise your English skills at every opportunity. Listen to English radio (e.g. BBC World Service),
watch English-language television and films and read the graded readers (e.g. Cambridge, Penguin,
Macmillan and Headway).
Read the tips in this booklet on how to prepare for each test.
For more information, please visit www.britishcouncil.org/aptis

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