Sample Response – Post-secondary
Question A
I heard someone say that the test they took has different questions from mine. Their test sounds easier, and I want to take that one.
- You’re right about the tests being different, but that doesn’t mean that the scores will be. Everyone’s test is a little different because each person can choose some of the questions they would like to answer. This helps tailor the test to determine your exact proficiency level and makes sure our assessment is accurate.
Question B
I don’t think the score that I got on this test reflects my ability. Could you please re-score it?
- I appreciate your concern. It’s important to have a good understanding of your proficiency before going abroad. Last summer I attended a two-day training session where I learned how to use a rubric to rate test-takers’ response on this test. I practiced with other administrators until we were able to arrive at the same score independently. To make sure I am consistent, I still refer back to the anchor papers when I am uncertain.
Question C
I was having a bad day, and I know I did not do as well as I could have on that rest. Could I re-take it?
- I’m glad you’re concerned about doing well on this test. Unfortunately, we can’t let you take it again. This test will give you the same result each time you take it unless you’ve learned something new since the last time you took it. Therefore, your score probably wouldn’t change if you took it again. If it did, it would show me that you studied since the last time you took the test, which is good, but that wouldn’t be fair to the other test-takers.
