Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp English language test: Assessment tools for business

A woman sat in a call centre with a headset smiling

You may have heard about Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp, an English test you can take remotely. You may have also heard that companies often use it for interviewing job candidates.?

But what does the test assess? And is it the right English proficiency test for you - or your company?

In today's language learning blog post, we¡¯ll cover everything you need to know about Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp. You¡¯ll find out who it¡¯s for, which language skills it tests, and why companies use it to assess candidates.

What is Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp?

Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp allows companies to quickly and efficiently evaluate the English language proficiency of their current or future employees. It helps HR managers assess candidates' language skills; as a result, companies can use it for recruitment, training, or promotion purposes.

The tests use artificial intelligence, machine learning, and auto-marketing technologies to streamline testing. This way, they can score assessments automatically, quickly, reliably, and securely.

Who is the Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp test for?

Imagine that HR Manager Maria has to hire a dozen new customer service representatives for her company. She only has a month to do it and is already overwhelmed with her other HR duties. And now, she has to screen tens - and potentially hundreds - of candidates. Above all, she needs to find people with a good enough English level to excel in a demanding customer service position.?

Test takers can complete Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp English tests online or offline, anytime, from anywhere. So if Maria chooses to use Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp tests to assess her candidates, she can run and deliver hundreds of standardized tests and get instant results.

Moreover, the administration of the test is very intuitive, so it won¡¯t take up too much of her time. And the easy-to-understand detailed score reports that it provides will make her hiring decisions all the easier.?

Similarly, a job seeker will be delighted to take an online English test from the comfort of their own home. Since test delivery is flexible, they can choose a time that suits them. All they need is a reliable internet connection and a headset with a built-in microphone.

The test will provide solid proof of the candidate's English level by evaluating language skills accurately and reliably. So they can demonstrate to the company just how well-equipped they are to do the job they're applying for.

How is Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp structured and which skills does it test?

Different companies have different assessment needs. Some need their employees¡¯ language skills to be well-rounded. Others focus on speaking skills. Others put a stronger emphasis on writing. Therefore, the Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp suite has four types of English proficiency tests to cater to all these needs:

1. The Professional English Test?

The Professional English Test is the most thorough of the 4 test types. It takes 60 minutes to complete and assesses all four skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. It has 10 different task types covering a broad range of language abilities. The Professional English Test is a comprehensive test. So, it¡¯s the best choice for companies that need their employees to have mastered all aspects of the English language.

2. The English Speaking and Listening Test

The English Speaking and Listening Test?is a shorter, 17-minute English proficiency test focusing on evaluating speaking and listening skills. It assesses the candidate¡¯s ability to communicate effectively in English with tasks that target fluency, pronunciation, vocabulary, and sentence mastery. Thanks to this, it¡¯s best for companies whose employees use spoken English primarily. For example, call centers, hotels, or delivery drivers.?This test replaces the Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp English Test, which retired in 2024.

3. The English Writing Test

The English Writing Test takes up to 35 minutes to complete. It allows companies to gauge the writing abilities of candidates. It tests skills such as grammar, vocabulary, organization, voice & tone, and reading comprehension.?

This English test for interviews is ideal for companies whose employees primarily use English in writing. For example, they use English for taking notes, responding to emails and chats, or writing product descriptions.

4. The English 4-Skills Essentials Test

The English 4-Skills Essential test is for companies looking to hire employees who are proficient in all four English language skills. Companies usually use it for filling entry-level positions. The test has a shorter time frame of 30 minutes and can be delivered flexibly online. Therefore, it¡¯s ideal for fulfilling urgent recruitment needs.?

What are the key benefits and features of Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp tests for administrators?

The tests are straightforward to administer. They seamlessly blend into an HR manager¡¯s routine. Here are some of the key benefits of it's English proficiency tests for administrators:

1. Automated scoring?

Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp has been perfecting its AI-based assessment technology for over 25 years. Because of the incredible amount of research that has gone into creating a reliable scoring system, it is able to automatically mark tests without the need for a human scorer. This provides a wide range of benefits for companies.?

Firstly, they can save time and money when testing job candidates. Secondly, unlike human scorers, Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp is free of bias and scores every candidate in a completely objective and consistent way. And thirdly, it prevents cheating by automatically alerting administrators of any suspicious test-taker behavior.?

2. Score reports

Another huge benefit is that it presents instant results in easy-to-read score reports. These contain detailed information about the candidate¡¯s language abilities. And they highlight skills that companies deem important so administrators can evaluate them at a glance.?

Score reports assign a CEFR or equivalent Global Scale of English score to the candidate. Consequently, the candidate¡¯s results become comparable to international standards. And the score reports contain suggestions for improvement, so candidates like Fred can practice the tasks that they¡¯re not yet proficient at.

3. ScoreKeeper test administration tool?

Last but not least, the tests come with the handy ScoreKeeper administration tool. It lets administrators deploy tests and review score reports in an easy-to-use platform. ScoreKeeper was designed with HR professionals in mind. As a result, managing tests, uploading rosters, and exporting results with the tool is a breeze.

Why do HR managers choose Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp tests?

From the above points, it¡¯s easy to see why an HR Manager would choose Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp.?

Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp automated language tests are an essential tool for scaling up your recruitment and candidate testing efforts. Most importantly, they allow HR Managers to save time and resources. And they let them focus on what they do best instead of trying to screen hundreds of candidates for English skills.?

It doesn¡¯t just significantly speed up the hiring process and cut down on costs. Above all, it lets HR departments manage secure, reliable, and bias-free standardized tests in bulk.

If you think that your organization could benefit from a quick, easy and reliable automated English proficiency test,?find out more about Versant by ÃÛÌÒapp.

Hire with confidence using our simple guide to language skill assessment

Find out when the best time to administer language assessment is, how to leverage results for business growth, and more.

5 steps to assessing candidates English language skills

More blogs from ÃÛÌÒapp

  • Woman working in front of a laptop writing something down and smiling

    Learning a language while working full-time

    By
    Reading time: 4 minutes

    Mastering a new language can be a game-changer for your career. Whether it's for expanding your professional network, exploring new job opportunities, or simply enhancing your cognitive skills, learning a language is an invaluable investment. But how can you juggle language learning with a demanding full-time job? Here are some practical tips designed for busy professionals.

    1. Set clear goals

    Before you start, it's crucial to set clear, achievable goals. Whether you aim to hold basic conversations, read professional documents, or become fluent, having a specific target will keep you motivated and focused.

    2. Integrate learning into your daily routine

    Finding time to study can be challenging, but integrating language learning into your daily routine can make it more manageable:

    • Commute time: Use your commute to listen to language podcasts or audiobooks.
    • Lunch breaks: Dedicate 15-20 minutes of your lunch break to review vocabulary or grammar.
    • Evening wind-down: Spend 10 minutes before bed practicing speaking or writing.

    3. Use online resources

    Modern technology provides a plethora of tools to help you learn a new language without disrupting your schedule:

    • Language learning apps: Apps like Mondly by ÃÛÌÒapp allow you to practice during your commute or lunch break.
    • Podcasts and audiobooks: Listen to language lessons during your commute or workout.
    • Online courses:? Many websites offer structured courses that you can complete at your own pace.

    4. Stay motivated

    Staying motivated is crucial to your success. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and remind yourself of the benefits of being multilingual:

    • Track your progress: Keep a journal of your language learning milestones and achievements.
    • Find a study buddy: Partner with a colleague or friend who is also learning the language to keep each other accountable.
    • Reward yourself: Treat yourself when you reach your language learning goals.

    5. Explore company resources

    Some companies offer resources or discounted access for learning. It's always worthwhile to check if your employer provides:

    • Language classes: On-site or online language classes.
    • Learning platforms: Subscriptions to language learning platforms.
    • Education reimbursement: Financial assistance for language courses as part of professional development.

    6. Use your work environment

    If your workplace has international colleagues, take advantage of this opportunity to practice. Try to speak with them in their first language or ask for help with pronunciation and vocabulary. Not only will this provide real-world practice, but it will also strengthen your professional relationships.

    7. Be consistent and patient

    Consistency is key when learning a new language:

    • Daily practice: Even 10-15 minutes a day can lead to significant progress over time.
    • Patience: Language learning is a gradual process. Celebrate small milestones and remain patient with your progress.

    Balancing a full-time job with language learning is no small feat, but it's entirely possible with the right strategies. By setting clear goals, integrating learning into your routine, leveraging technology, practicing consistently, engaging with native speakers, making learning fun and staying motivated, you can achieve fluency without sacrificing your professional responsibilities. Ready to start your language learning journey? Take the first step today and open a world of new opportunities.

  • A woman sat outside in a forest relaxing with her eyes closed

    10 tips for student wellbeing at back to school time

    By Donatella Fitzgerald MBE
    Reading time: 5 minutes

    Donatella Fitzgerald is a teacher, teacher trainer, and trained to teach the MISP Mindfulness in Schools Project (from pre-school to teens) and has completed Module 1 on the Teacher Training Pathway with the Mindfulness Network in collaboration with Bangor University. Her specialist interest areas are Extensive Reading Projects, CLIL, Citizenship, Mindfulness, Plurilingualism and Artificial Intelligence in Education. ?In her current role as ELL Consultant at ÃÛÌÒapp in Italy she works with teachers and students every day to find solutions to help them achieve their teaching and learning goals. In 2024, she was awarded an MBE (Member of the British Empire) in the King¡¯s Birthday Honours List for Services to English Education and Youth Engagement.

    The first weeks back at school after a break can be both exciting and overwhelming. It¡¯s a time of new beginnings, fresh challenges, and opportunities for growth. Prioritizing wellbeing during this period is crucial for a smooth transition and long-term success. Students may be feeling anxious and unsettled due to starting a new school year, or even a new school. In today's fast-paced academic environment, maintaining mental, emotional, and physical health is more crucial than ever. Here are some tips to help your students stay balanced and thrive throughout the school year.

  • A man looking at a openlaptop with a pen in hand, smiling at the laptop

    7 myths about learning a new language debunked

    By
    Reading time: 3 minutes

    Learning a new language can be an incredibly rewarding experience, opening doors to new cultures, enhancing career opportunities and providing cognitive benefits. However, many myths about language learning can discourage potential learners or lead them astray. Today, we're debunking seven common language learning myths to help you on your linguistic journey.

    Myth 1: "You need to start young to be fluent"

    Truth:

    It's never too late to learn a new language. While children may pick up accents and intonation more easily, adults often have the advantage of better-developed cognitive skills and life experiences that can aid in understanding complex grammar and vocabulary. Numerous studies have shown that adults can achieve fluency with dedication and the right learning strategies.

    Myth 2: "You have to live in a country to learn the language"

    Truth:

    Thanks to technology, you can immerse yourself in a new language without leaving your home. Tools like language learning apps, online courses, virtual tutors and even social media can provide ample opportunities for practice and immersion. Living in a country where the language is spoken can be beneficial, but it is not a necessity.

    Myth 3: "You must be naturally gifted to learn languages"

    Truth:

    Language learning is less about innate talent and more about consistent practice and effective methods. Anyone can learn a new language with the right mindset and resources. Persistence, motivation and using varied learning techniques can significantly enhance your ability to learn.

    Myth 4: "It's all about memorizing vocabulary"

    Truth:

    While vocabulary is essential, language learning involves much more than rote memorization. Understanding grammar, practicing speaking and listening, and getting a feel for cultural nuances are equally important. Engaging in conversations, reading and writing in the language can make the learning process more holistic and enjoyable.

    Myth 5: "You can't learn multiple languages at once"

    Truth:

    Learning multiple languages simultaneously is possible, though it does require careful planning and organization. The key is to manage your time effectively and ensure that you are not overwhelming yourself. Using different methods and tools for each language can help keep them distinct in your mind.

    Myth 6: "Watching movies and listening to music doesn't count as learning"

    Truth:

    Consuming media in your target language can be an excellent way to improve your listening skills and cultural understanding. Movies, TV shows, music and podcasts expose you to natural language usage, slang and colloquial expressions that textbooks may not cover. It's a fun and engaging complementary method to more formal study.

    Myth 7: "If you can't speak perfectly, don't try"

    Truth:

    Perfectionism can be a significant barrier to language learning. Making mistakes is a natural part of the learning process. The more you practice speaking, the more confident and proficient you'll become. Focus on communication rather than perfection, and don't be afraid to make errors¡ªthey're your stepping stones to fluency.

    Conclusion

    By debunking these myths, we hope to encourage more people to take up the challenge of learning a new language. Remember, the most important factors are consistency, practice and a willingness to learn from mistakes.

    Ready to tackle a new language? Start today and immerse yourself in the endless possibilities that come with being multilingual. Explore the benefits with our post, 'Being bilingual can help keep your brain in good condition'.