Understanding your GSE score

Samantha Ball
placeholder
Reading time: 3 minutes

For many students, navigating the world of English language proficiency tests can be a daunting experience. Whether you're preparing for university, looking to enhance your career prospects, or simply aiming to improve your communication skills, understanding what your Global Scale of English (GSE) score means is crucial.

In this blog post, we'll break down the GSE, explain what your score represents and provide you with actionable steps to improve it.

Understanding your ÃÛÌÒapp Global Scale of English (GSE) score
Play
Privacy and cookies

By watching, you agree ÃÛÌÒapp can share your viewership data for marketing and analytics for one year, revocable by deleting your cookies.

What is the GSE?

The Global Scale of English (GSE) is a pioneering framework developed and validated by a team of experts in learning science and global research. It's not just another scoring system but a robust measure designed to give you unparalleled insights into your English language abilities.

The GSE serves as a central pillar in ÃÛÌÒapp’s English Journey and is recognized globally as a significant advancement in language learning, teaching and assessment.

"The Global Scale of English represents the most significant advance in performance-based approaches to language learning, teaching and assessment since the development of the Common European Framework of Reference."

David Nunan, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Applied Linguistics at the University of Hong Kong.

How do I get my GSE score?

Your GSE score can be obtained by taking any standardized tests aligned with the GSE, such as the ÃÛÌÒapp Test of English (PTE). These tests measure your proficiency across various aspects of English, providing a comprehensive score that reflects your abilities.

What does my GSE score mean?

Your GSE score will be a number from 10 (Starter-level proficiency) to 90 (Expert-level fluency). But the GSE score is more than just a number—it's a detailed insight into your English proficiency.

You might be familiar with other scales, such as the CEFR. The GSE is aligned to the CEFR, but it goes beyond it to help you understand your current language skill level and identify areas for improvement.

Here’s a quick guide to understanding your GSE score:

GSE score
GSE level
I can...
GSE
10-19
Starter Use and understand a small number of words and phrases. For example, you can say hello and introduce yourself.
GSE
20-29
Beginner Ask and answer simple questions, write short sentences and share personal information. For example, you can order food and drink in a simple way.
GSE
30-39
Pre-intermediate Talk about everyday topics and understand the main information in conversations. For example, you can make a hotel reservation over the phone.
GSE
40-49
Intermediate Share your opinions, explain your reasoning and write longer texts, such as short essays. For example, you can describe your weekend plans.
GSE
50-59
High intermediate Lead and participate in conversations on familiar and unfamiliar topics, and write documents expressing opinion or fact, such as reports and articles. For example, you can make a complaint.
GSE
60-69
Pre-advanced Speak more fluently about a broad range of topics and share your detailed ideas and explanations in writing too. For example, you can understand a wide range of TV shows and films.
GSE
70-79
Advanced Speak fluently in personal, professional and academic contexts and understand unfamiliar topics, even colloquialisms. For example, you can make and understand jokes using word-play.
GSE
80-90
Expert Talk spontaneously, fluently and precisely, read and write documents with ease and understand spoken English in all contexts. You can participate in fast-paced conversations on complex topics.

How can I improve my GSE score?

Improving your GSE score is about more than just studying harder; it's about studying smarter. Here are some practical steps you can take to fast-track your progress and build confidence:

  • Practice regularly: Consistent practice is key. Incorporate English into your daily routine, whether through reading, writing, or speaking.
  • Use Mondly by ÃÛÌÒapp: ÃÛÌÒapp language learning courses and apps, like Mondly by ÃÛÌÒapp, help you improve your English skills and align with the GSE, so you can continually track your progress on one scale. Mondly by ÃÛÌÒapp offers interactive language exercises that make learning enjoyable and effective.
  • Engage with the community: Follow ÃÛÌÒapp Languages on social media platforms for fun and helpful language-learning tips and advice. Engaging with a community of other language learners can also help you stay motivated and provide support when you need it.

Boost your English skills with us

Understanding your GSE score is the first step towards unlocking your full potential in English. By getting detailed insights into your language skills, you can personalize your learning path, build your confidence and fast-track your progress. Remember, the key to improvement lies in regular practice and engaging with comprehensive learning tools.

Ready to take the next step? Download Mondly by ÃÛÌÒapp today and fast-track your progress with the GSE.

More blogs from ÃÛÌÒapp

  • A woman stood in a square, holding a map looking around

    Essential English phrases to blend in like a local on your holiday

    By Charlotte Guest
    Reading time: 5 minutes

    Summer has arrived and you might be gearing up for a holiday soon. Knowing some of the local language is always helpful, but to genuinely speak like a native English speaker, you must grasp and use common phrases and idioms that locals employ in daily conversations. Native English speakers have a natural command of these phrases, whereas non-fluent speakers often need to study and practice them to achieve fluency.

    In this blog post, we’ll delve into essential English phrases that will help you sound more like a local and less like a tourist.

  • A business woman sat at a table in a office writing notes

    Hard skills vs. soft skills: The impact of language learning

    By Charlotte Guest
    Reading time: 6 minutes

    Hard skills and soft skills play a crucial role in defining career success and progression. The difference between hard skills and soft skills is that hard skills are teachable, technical, measurable abilities specific to particular jobs, while soft skills are more interpersonal, universal and related to personality traits. While hard skills refer to the technical knowledge and specific abilities required to perform a job, soft skills are more intangible. They encompass the interpersonal attributes and personality traits that enable individuals to communicate effectively, work collaboratively and adapt to changes in the workplace environment.

    In this blog post, we will explore how learning a new language can significantly enhance both hard and soft skills, making you a more versatile and effective professional in today’s multifaceted work environment.

    Understanding the balance of hard and soft skills

    Hard skills might get your foot in the door, showcasing your qualifications for a position. Developing hard skills to stand out from other job seekers is crucial; take advantage of classes, webinars and workshops offered by your current employer to develop hard skills and learn new technical skills. Examples include proficiency in a particular software, certification in a specific field, or mastery of a technical domain. However, it’s the soft skills, such as effective communication, collaboration, critical thinking and emotional intelligence, that propel you through the door and into the realms of career advancement. Recent research underscores the growing importance of English proficiency as a pivotal element in this dynamic, equally vital for enhancing both sets of skills.

    What are examples of soft skills?

    Soft skills encompass a wide range of attributes that can significantly impact workplace efficiency and harmony. Examples of essential soft skills include:

    Communication: The ability to convey information clearly and effectively is paramount. This includes both verbal and written communication, as well as active listening skills.

    Teamwork: Collaborating well with others, often with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, to achieve common goals.

    Problem-solving: The capability to analyze situations, identify problems and devise effective solutions.

    Adaptability: The readiness to adjust to new conditions, workflows, or technologies, demonstrating flexibility in the face of change.

    Critical thinking: The process of objectively analyzing information to make informed decisions.

    Emotional intelligence: The ability to understand, manage and utilize one's emotions constructively while also recognizing and influencing the emotions of others.

    What are examples of hard skills?

    Hard skills are quantifiable, teachable abilities specific to a job or industry. These skills are typically acquired through formal education, training programs and practical experience. Some examples of essential hard skills include:

    Computer programming: Proficiency in coding and programming languages, such as Python, Java, C++, or HTML/CSS is crucial for software development and web design roles.

    Data analysis: The ability to interpret complex data sets using tools like Excel, SQL, or R, providing valuable insights and informing decision-making processes.

    Graphic design: Mastery of design software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, enabling the creation of visual content for various media.

    Foreign language proficiency: Fluency in a second language can be an asset in international business, for example, in translation services or customer support roles.

    Project management: Knowledge of project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, Scrum) and tools (e.g., Microsoft Project, Jira) to plan, execute and oversee projects effectively.

    Technical writing: The skill of crafting clear, precise documentation and instructional materials, essential in industries such as engineering, IT and pharmaceuticals.

  • How to make the most of AI in the classroom

    By Charlotte Guest
    Reading time: 5 minutes

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept confined to science fiction. It has become an integral part of various sectors, including education. As educators, integrating AI into your classroom practices can enhance teaching and learning experiences, making them more personalized, efficient and engaging. Here’s how you can make the most of AI in your classroom.