Can I fail the TOEIC test?
The TOEIC test is not the kind of test that one "passes" or "fails". Not every job or task requires the same level of English proficiency. Because it was developed specifically to measure the types of English used in the workplace, the TOEIC test measures many levels of ability. It enables people to demonstrate what they can currently accomplish in English.
Many companies use the TOEIC test to set their own standards and may require that employees have a certain minimum TOEIC score because the corresponding level of English is needed on the job. This does not mean that an individual will pass, or fail, the TOEIC test - it simply means that he or she will meet, or not meet, the standards set by a specific company or language school.
Does the TOEIC test measure speaking and writing?
The TOEIC test measures listening and reading directly. These skills can be tested objectively, cost-effectively, and efficiently. Testing speaking and writing directly requires considerable time and expense, both for administering the test and for scoring.
Direct tests of speaking and writing are generally not only less objective, but also less reliable. The decision to test only listening and reading directly on the TOEIC test was a response to the needs of clients and test takers for a rapid, affordable, and convenient service, as well as for high reliability.
The TOEIC test provides an indirect measure of speaking and writing. Studies with large samples of nonnative speakers of English from around the world have confirmed a strong link between TOEIC results and an oral interview. Smaller studies have shown a similar link with writing skills.
From what contexts are TOEIC test questions taken?
These are some examples of the settings and situations you may find in TOEIC test questions:
• Corporate Development: research, product development
• Dining out: business and informal lunches, banquets, receptions, restaurant reservations
• Entertainment: cinema, theater, music, art, exhibitions, museums, media
• Finance and Budgeting: banking, investments, taxes, accounting, billing