Aptis scores reflect candidates ability to understand and communicate in English. 

All Aptis reports include a unique QR code and a link which provide digital result verification, confirming the authenticity of test results. This feature uses blockchain credentials with the highest level of security, verifying all test reports issued by the British Council. 

How are the results presented?

The results from Aptis are presented in two ways:

  • numerical score: A scale of 0 to 50 for each skill tested and a score for the Grammar and Vocabulary component
  • CEFR level by skill: A CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) level is allocated for each skill tested. Each CEFR band describes the English language competence in a specific skill and is described on the back of the individual report
  • an overall CEFR level if all four skill components have been completed.

Preview a sample Aptis results report (PDF).

Why is Grammar and Vocabulary reported differently?

The grammar and vocabulary score is only reported as a score out of 50. However, since Grammar and vocabulary knowledge underpins all language skills, it is essential in assigning the correct CEFR level for each skill.

If the score falls on the threshold between two CEFR levels in a particular skill, the grammar and vocabulary score is taken into account to assign the correct CEFR level. This increases the accuracy of the CEFR level allocation for each skill tested and the fairness of the test results.

What is the relationship between the CEFR level and the numerical score?

The overall CEFR level and numerical score are independently calculated, so there is no direct relationship between the two.

The overall CEFR calculation is based on the levels for each of the four skills and does not take into account whether a candidate achieved the lower or higher end of the numerical score range for each skill.

It's possible for two candidates to receive a wide range of numerical scores but have the same overall CEFR level. For example, a candidate could also receive a lower numerical score than another candidate but in fact achieve a higher overall CEFR level.

For more information see our Aptis Scoring document (PDF).

What is the best way to compare Aptis results from different English skills?

The numerical scores required to achieve a CEFR level differ for each skill.

This means that the numerical scores are not directly comparable between the different skills. If you need to compare the writing abilities of two candidates, for example, we recommend referring first to the CEFR level and then to the numerical score for a more detailed comparison.

How to compare overall English proficiency?

When comparing English language ability between two candidates, or over different test sittings, it's best to refer to the overall CEFR level of a four-skills test, rather than the total numeric score out of 200.

Because of the different calibration of each of the skills against the CEFR, candidates with the same total numerical score could be awarded a different overall CEFR level.

How do you ensure the Aptis standards?

Aptis test specification, task development and rating scales are based on the CEFR.

We have a comprehensive research agenda, ongoing control and monitoring to ensure the reliability and accuracy of Aptis scores. 

More information on how Aptis scores are aligned to the CEFR can be found in the Aptis scoring report.
Share this