SPEAK Test Schedule

The SPEAK test is the institutional version of the Test of Spoken English (TSE), which is administered by the Educational Testing Service. The SPEAK test measures oral proficiency and is frequently used to evaluate the spoken English of international TAs. This test is available ONLY to students holding or under consideration for a teaching assistantship.

Testing Schedule:
The SPEAK test will be given at the following times in Room 250 Van Hise. Students should arrive at least 10 minutes before the test starts to check in.

Spring 2008
Monday, January 14 at 9:30 a.m.
Wednesday, January 16 at 9:30 a.m.
Monday, February 25 at 3:30 p.m.
Monday, March 24 at 3:30 p.m.
Monday, April 28 at 3:30 p.m.

Summer 2008
Monday, July 14 at 1:00 p.m.
Monday, July 28 at 1:00 p.m.

Fall 2008
Monday, August 25 at 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
Wednesday, August 27 at 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
Monday, September 22 at 3:30 p.m.
Monday, October 27 at 3:30 p.m.
Monday, November 24 at 3:30 p.m.

Requirements
Individual students do not need to pre-register. Call 263-3780 for groups of six or more for a single testing session. Students must bring a picture ID and a letter of authorization from their department. Students may take the test only once in a three-month period.

Interpretation of Results
Each college or school determines its own policy of the hiring of teaching assistants, in accordance with general university guidelines. The general guidelines for the use of SPEAK test scores follow.

1) Students with a score greater than or equal to 50 may teach with no further English language testing requirements.

2) Students with a score of 45 can perform instructional duties that require spoken English only if also enrolled in a program to improve English skills.

3) Students with a score lower than 45 cannot perform instructional duties that require spoken English.

Reporting of Results
SPEAK tests will be scored within five days and will be sent to both the student and the department, accompanied by a recommendation for those with scores of 45 or lower. Upon request, scores will be sent by E-mail, followed by a paper copy.