New English Proficiency Test to Replace TOEFL in Korea

A new government-administered test of English proficiency for elementary and secondary students will be introduced during the second half of 2009, replacing international and domestic tests like the TOEFL, TOEIC and TEPS. The tests will assess speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. The Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development hinted the test may also replace the English section in the current annual College Scholastic Ability Test. ……. new tests for adults will also be introduced in 2011. "It may be possible to replace the CSAT's English section with these tests starting in 2011 if the new tests for students prove successful.…… many parents have expressed concerns that the new test may be of little help in keeping Korean money in Korea or improving English education. …….. None of the English proficiency tests developed by Korean universities have been recognized by foreign universities yet, and it is likely that anyone wishing to study abroad will still have to sit the TOEFL. [View Full Article]