About
This test is not open to persons who are already students.
ALL applicants to the University are required to take a proficiency test in English, unless exempted (see Exemptions section).
The English Language Proficiency Test is designed to determine whether individuals applying for admission to undergraduate degree programmes at the UWI Global campus possess a satisfactory level of proficiency in reading and writing English. This assessment ensures that applicants are adequately prepared to meet the language demands of academic coursework and scholarly communication at the tertiary level.
Important Information
- Candidates are permitted to attempt the ELPT only once
- Test mode: Online only (not face-to-face).
- ID requirement: Candidates must present a valid government-issued photo ID to access the exam.
- Missed exam policy: Candidates who miss their scheduled test must submit a medical certificate in order to be allowed an alternate testing date without having to pay a second fee.
- Further communication: All additional details, including login instructions and technical requirements, will be sent to candidates via email.
Exemptions
All applicants are invited to take the English Language Proficiency Test (ELPT), except for persons with the following qualifications:
- Grade 1- CXC English A examination
- Grade A - GCE O Level English Language examination
- Grade A- GCE A/O Level General Paper examination
- Grades 1 or 2 CAPE (Caribbean Advanced Proficiency
Examination) Communication Studies. - Grade B+ or above College English Skills I or II - College of Bahamas
- Grade B+ or above Advanced Communication or Business Communication - University of Technology (UTECH)
- Grade B+ or above Freshman Composition I or II - Northern Caribbean University (NCU).
- Persons who are already holders of an undergraduate degree from the UWI or from an approved English-speaking university, and persons with a Grade B+ or above in a college English course from an approved University.
- Persons holding a UWI Certificate in Advanced Nursing Education and Administration OR a UWI Licentiate of Theology.
- Persons holding a UWI Diploma in Mass Communications who have passed the course ‘Media & Language’ (MC52A)
- TOEFL (Paper Test Score 580+ or Electronic minimum writing score 22)
- Persons who passed (within the past 5 years) the UWI English Language Proficiency Tests offered by any UWI campus
Applicants who do not possess one of the above qualifications or a pass in the English Language Proficiency Test (ELPT) must successfully complete the FOUN0003 - Communication and use of English course before they are eligible to register for the FOUN1001 - English for Academic Purposes course.
Test Dates
The test will be administered twice each academic year; once before each intake period (i.e., in July/August and November/December.
The test dates for the 2025-2026 academic year are as follows:
- Wednesday July 30, 2025 at 11:00 am Belize Time/ 12:00 pm Ja Time/ 1:00 pm EC Time
- Wednesday November 26, 2025 at 11:00 am Belize Time/ 12:00 pm Ja Time/ 1:00 pm EC Time
Test Format
The test is divided into two sections: a multiple-choice component and an essay writing component. Candidates are required to pass both sections in order to be deemed proficient.
The test focuses on three core areas:
- Grammar
This section assesses the candidate’s ability to recognise correct versus incorrect sentence structures, rather than testing formal grammatical knowledge. Presented in a multiple-choice format, this section may include questions on:
a) Grammar of the simple sentence
b) Grammar of complex and compound sentences
c) Idiomatic usage
d) Writing mechanics and spelling - Reading
Also part of the multiple-choice section, this component requires candidates to read several short passages and answer questions that assess their understanding of the main ideas and supporting details. - Writing
In the essay writing section, candidates must produce a coherent and well-structured essay based on a given topic. This section evaluates the ability to communicate ideas clearly, logically, and in standard written English.
Test Registration Procedure
Information about registration for the ELPT will be sent via email by the Global Campus Site (GCS) Office to which the student is assigned and/or the Academic Programming and Delivery (APAD) Division.
- Registration for theJuly 30 test can be done via this form: https://forms.gle/CdT4JSHKyd8gBD827
- Application and payment for the test will be online, unless otherwise instructed.
- The cost of the test is USD $25.00.
- Candidates will receive an email acknowledging receipt of their registration and further instructions.
Preparing For The Test
Sample questions will be shared with all candidates via email for practice. Instructions will also be shared to guide candidates with access to the test page to complete the set-up of the online proctoring tool. This step is essential and should be completed as soon as possible during the practice test period. Candidates should avoid attempting to complete the set-up on the actual test day.
Test Results
Test results will be accessible via the Student Portal within three weeks of the test date. An email will be sent to all candidates to confirm the release of results.
To view results: See the ‘ELPT Test Score’ link in the ‘Exams and Academic History’ section of the Student Portal.
