Using the Internet-based TOEFL (iBT) and the International English Language Testing
System (IELTS) to assess the spoken English competency of prospective GTAs who are
non-native speakers of English
University of Kansas, Lawrence
June 4, 2007
The Board of Regents policy on spoken English competency requires that non-native speakers of
English who are appointed to GTA positions earn a score of 50 on the Test of Spoken English
(TSE) or the Speaking Proficiency English Assessment Kit (SPEAK) test. Prospective GTAs also
must be interviewed by at least three institutional representatives, at least one of whom must be a
student.
At present, the TSE is being phased out and two new tests will be accepted in its place: (1) the
Internet-based TOEFL exam (iBT) developed by Educational Testing Services and (2) the
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) developed by the University of
Cambridge ESOL program. Both tests include a component that measures spoken English.
Departments may offer GTA positions to non-native speakers of English who (1) achieve the
minimum scores of 50 on the TSE or SPEAK test, 26 on the spoken component of the iBT, or 8
on the spoken component of the IELTS and (2) pass the interview required by the Board of
Regents.
In order to gather data about the comparability of these test scores, the Applied English Center
(AEC) will administer the SPEAK test to GTAs, upon arrival, who have the minimal score of 26 on
the iBT or 8 on the IELTS. A graduate student who has been offered a GTA position on the basis
of a minimal score on the iBT or IELTS will not forfeit the GTA position if he or she does not score
50 on the SPEAK test. However, the AEC may recommend that the student take specific AEC
courses to help overcome any deficiencies. Incoming graduate students who scored less than 26
on the spoken component of the iBT or 8 on the spoken component of the IELTS also are
encouraged to take the SPEAK test. In Fall 2008, the Office of the Provost will consult with
departments and the AEC to ensure that the score equivalencies are appropriate.
Evaluation of English language competency before extending offer of GTA appointment:
1. Spoken English competency as measured by:
Test
TSE, SPEAK
iBT
IELTS
2. Interview with three institutional representatives, including one student
Min. Score
50
26
8