The English Language Program administers two kinds of English language placement tests: the English Placement Test (EPT) and the International TA Placement Test (IPT).
ENGLISH PLACEMENT TEST
Who Should Take the EPT?
The English Placement Test (EPT) is administered to all students interested in enrolling in the ESLP courses except ESLP 6021. This exam must be taken by international undergraduate students who are required to take the test when they are admitted to Marquette. Additionally, any undergraduate or graduate student whose native language is not English and who is interested in enrolling in an ESLP course is welcomed to take the test.
What is the Format of the EPT?
The English Placement Test (EPT) is a three-hour exam that consists of three sections: writing, listening, and reading. The writing section requires students to read a short passage and to respond by writing a short essay, using information from the text along with their own thinking and reasoning. The listening section asks students to choose appropriate responses to short phrases, a short lecture, and a conversation heard on a tape. The reading section involves reading short texts and answering questions about them. This section also includes grammar and vocabulary items.
When is the EPT Offered?
The English Placement Test (EPT) is administered during the new International Student Orientation Program the week before each semester starts, during the first week of fall and spring semesters, and at other times throughout the year as needed.
To find out the dates and times of the next available EPTs and/or to register to take the EPT, contact Jean Richie at jean.richie@marquette.edu.
INTERNATIONAL TA PLACEMENT TEST
Who Should Take the IPT?
The ITA Placement Test (IPT) is required for all new incoming international TAs who are non-U.S. citizens and whose native language is not English. The IPT may place students into ESLP 203 (American Language and Culture for International TAs) and the other ESLP courses.
What is the Format of the IPT?
The ITA Placement Test (IPT) consists of the English Placement Test (EPT) plus a Micro-Teaching Assignment, which assesses the ITAs’ speaking and presentation skills. The Micro-Teaching Assignment asks the TAs to give a 6-8 minute presentation on a basic concept in their field to an introductory undergraduate audience with little to no background in their field. After the presentation, the TAs are asked to field questions related to the presentation and/or their field.
When is the IPT Offered?
The ITA Placement Test (IPT) is administered during the International Teaching Assistant Program held two weeks before the start of the fall semester. It is also offered during the new International Student Orientation Program, which takes place the week before each semester starts. The test should be taken before international TAs begin their employment.
If you are a new international TA and have not received information about the International Teaching Assistant Program and/or the IPT, please contact Jean Richie at jean.richie@marquette.edu.
