SPEAK Test Procedures
The SPEAK (Speaking Proficiency English Assessment Kit) is a standardized test of oral English proficiency, which is administered by the Center for Teaching Excellence. The SPEAK Test takes place in a campus computer lab. Test-takers listen to an audio program while they follow along in a test booklet and respond to items that are read and heard. Responses are recorded by a computer. Test-takers are rated on Overall Communication Ability (a passing score is 50 out of 60 possible points).What Test-Takers Should Do on the Day of the SPEAK Test
- Confirm the test time with a Departmental ITA Representative.
- Bring a picture ID (student ID or driver's license) and University Identification Number (UIN, printed on student I-Cards) to the test. Leave other materials at home (e.g., pens, papers, recording devices, cell phones, etc.).
- Arrive at the designated computer lab shortly before the assigned
test time. The test itself will last approximately 25 minutes.
Advice to Test-Takers
- Try to sound as natural as possible.
- Focus only on your response, not on the voices of others taking the test.
- Do not use memorized answers.
- Try to say as much as you can in the time allotted for each answer. Minimized or incomplete answers will be graded accordingly.
- Adhere to the UIUC Code of Policies & Regulations, especially section 33 covering Academic Integrity.
What Happens After the SPEAK Test
Results are sent to departments approximately four to five weeks after the test. The Center for Teaching Excellence is NOT permitted to release results to students directly. Inquiries about test results should be directed to departmental representatives.
If a prospective ITA does NOT pass the SPEAK Test, s/he may retake the test (maximum of 3 SPEAK attempts). However, to be eligible to retake the SPEAK Test; an English improvement activity must be completed. Options include enrollment in an ESL course (504, 506, or 510) in the semester after the SPEAK was taken or ten hours of participation in CTE-approved tutoring.
A SPEAK Appeals request may be made to the Graduate College if a department feels that a specific score does not adequately reflect oral English ability.