About TIE

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I do this test?

The following are all excellent reasons for doing the TIE examination:
  • TIE has been designed according to sound methodological principles.
  • TIE assesses your levels of written and spoken English and separate grades are awarded for each part of the test
  • TIE is certified by IELT and recognised as a valid Exit Exam for English Language courses listed on the ILEP by The Irish Department of Justice and Equality
  • Assessment follows the Common European Framework and the TIE certificate is suitable for inclusion in a European Language or Europass Portfolio.
  • Rigorous quality assurance checks are in place to ensure validity and reliability.
  • TIE can be taken by learners at any level.
  • TIE is available to students every Wednesday and Thursday in Dublin at the IELT premises. 
  • Statements of results are sent to schools or individual candidates within 14 working days.
  • Schools can register candidates by contacting IELT to arrange a date and time for the examination. They can then submit completed application forms at least 10 working days before the examination.
  • Certificates are sent out within six weeks.

How much does it cost?
The cost of the test in 2018 is €105 for adults and €95 for juniors.  Payment must be made at the time of booking the exam.

How do I prepare?
You need to do three tasks and record them in a logbook:

  • Carry out a short project on a subject of interest to you
  • Read a book of your choice in English at your level
  • Follow a News Story in the newspapers and/or on TV or radio.

For advice on how to prepare please refer to the student guidelines or teachers’ handbook available from IELT .


What does the test consist of?
The test is in two parts – a speaking test (OTIE) and a written test (WTIE).
In the oral test you present your project, talk about either your book or news story and talk to your partner to reach a decision based on some material the examiner will give you.
In the writing test you are required to produce two pieces of writing. You write about either your book or news story for the first task and for the second you write something which you have not prepared.

How long does the test take?
The writing test takes 1 hour and the speaking test takes 30 minutes (25 minutes for Junior TIE).

Where can I take the test?
Schools may organise for sessions to take place on their own premises (minimum 12 candidates) or else individuals may take the test on Wednesdays and Thursdays on the IELT premises.

How long in advance must I register?

 A special excel sheet must be filled in by every candidate wishing to do the exam and this together with full payment must be received in order to book the chosen date available.  Test dates get filled up very quickly so it is advisable to book well in advance. 


How do I register?
Schools can register candidates by contacting IELT to arrange a date and time for the examination. They can then submit the completed excel sheets along with full payment for the session. Timetables will then be sent out in advance of the examination to facilitate preparation of rooms for the exam.

Individual candidates should contact TIE at least 14 working days in advance of their preferred date to check availability; they can then submit an application form. In the case of both schools and individuals fees must be paid in advance and under no circumstances will results or certificates be issued before payment has been received.


How is the test assessed?

The test is assessed according to the Council of Europe’s Common European framework of Language Proficiency. The grades for the two examinations are slightly different:


When do I get my results?
Statement of results are issued within 14 working days of doing the test and certificates sent within 6 weeks. All results are sent to the schools or centres entering the candidates and it is their responsibility to ensure that candidates receive their certificates.


Where can I get more information?

You can get more information from the Director of Studies at your school or you can e-mail us on info@ielt.ie.