WELT - University of Warwick English Language Test
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The University of Warwick has decided to withdraw the Warwick English Language Test (WELT) with effect from The UK Border Agency (UKBA) has recently announced that it intends shortly to introduce new arrangements for testing the English of students applying to study in the UK. It is expected that tests will be required to cover the four skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing, and to demonstrate equivalency to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). The current WELT tests reading and writing, and aspects of grammar and usage, but does not test listening or speaking. Its design also does not allow it to be linked satisfactorily to the CEFR. As the WELT does not therefore meet all the anticipated requirements of the UKBA, the University has decided to withdraw WELT with immediate effect. This will allow applicants to make alternative arrangements in time for 2010 entry. As a licensed sponsor for international students the University of Warwick remains committed to working closely with the UKBA to ensure strict compliance with their regulations. The University regrets any inconvenience the withdrawal may cause to applicants or their advisers. The Centre for Applied Linguistics will recognise and accept for certification all test papers completed up to and including 2nd May 2010. It will not accept any papers taken after that date. The University of Warwick will continue to accept for admissions purposes all WELT certificates issued for test sittings prior to 3rd May. We would encourage other institutions who currently accept WELT for admission purposes to do the same. Nevertheless, we would advise all candidates to confirm with their admitting institution that the institution will recognise a WELT score, and if not, to take an alternative test. We have asked Test Centres to refuse any further registrations for the test upon receipt of our notification. If candidates have already registered with Test Centres to take the test before 5pm (local time) on the 2nd May, these bookings may be honoured. However, if candidates have already registered with Test Centres to take the test after the 2nd May, they should make alternative arrangements. If candidates have any queries, they should contact their local test centre. Relevant information on government procedures can be found on these web pages: Changes to Tier 4 procedures, announced 3 March 2010 Tier 4 Procedures, announced on 22 February 2010 Information for Students on how to apply for a student visa Responsibilities of Sponsoring Organisations If test centres or institutions who recognise WELT have any further queries, they should contact the Deputy Director of the Centre for Applied Linguistics, Susanna Dammann. Email: s.m.e.dammann@warwick.ac.uk The Centre for Applied Linguistics, which is responsible for the WELT, will continue to develop research and teaching in the rapidly expanding field of language testing. The Centre has recently launched a new MA in English Language Teaching with a Specialism in Testing and Assessment |
