Each test can be used independently of the others, or they can be used in various combinations. This principle of flexibility allows BULATS to customise the service for different situations.
All the tests aim to be relevant to people using the language at work. They cover areas such as descriptions of jobs, companies and products, travel, management and marketing, customer service, planning, reports, phone messages, business correspondence and presentations. The tasks in the test are generally practical ones, e.g. taking a phone message, checking a letter, giving a presentation, understanding an article, writing a report.

BULATS is a collaborative venture between University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations and three leading European language institutes: the Alliance Frană§aise, the Goethe-Institut and the Universidad de Salamanca, ensuring the rigour of the tests, the accuracy of each language version and the reliability of the results.

All the tests aim to assess candidates across the six levels of the A.L.T.E. Framework, i.e. the same test is used for all candidates whatever their level. (0-5 of the A.L.T.E. Framework correspond to the Council of Europe Framework levels A1-C2.)

Who is BULATS for?
BULATS is designed for the growing number of organisations which rely on the language skills of their employees in order to operate effectively: companies trading in international markets; national and local government departments; or any organisation for whom good, bi- or multilingual communication is an important part of the working day.

Download the Candidate Handbook in English (PDF)

Download the Candidate Handbook in French (PDF)

Download the Candidate Handbook in German (PDF)

The Computer Test

The BULATS Computer Test provides a fast, versatile and accurate method of testing language ability in the world of work. A highly sophisticated program, the BULATS Computer Test allows on-demand assessment of all levels of language ability in English, French, German or Spanish.
Each language option is available on a separate CD, allowing users to purchase only those languages which are of most relevance to their employees. On-screen instructions are given in all test languages, as well as in Italian and Portuguese.

The BULATS Computer Test is more than just a set of questions, it exploits the latest developments in language testing technology to provide a fast, fully functional, 'stand-alone' method of assessing language ability.

Candidates need no formal preparation in order to take a test, if a 'snapshot' of current ability is required. Questions are presented on-screen, and candidates answer using keyboard and mouse. On-screen help is also available as are practice screens, helping candidates familiarise themselves with the format of the program and the technology used. It is the responsibility of the end user to determine the appropriate level of invigilation for the test.

The Standard Test

The Standard Test can be used as a pencil and paper alternative to the Computer Test to assess listening and reading skills, and knowledge of grammar and vocabulary. It lasts 110 minutes: 50 minutes for listening and 60 minutes for reading and language knowledge.

The Speaking Test

The test is conducted for individual candidates by a single examiner. It is recorded on tape and re-assessed by another examiner. The test has 3 parts and lasts a maximum of 12 minutes.

Part 1: Interview (4 mins)
This is a face-to-face interview with the examiner where candidates are expected to answer questions about themselves, their work or their studies, and their interests.

Part 2: Presentation (4 mins)
The candidate is given a choice of three topics and has one minute to prepare a short presentation on one of the topics. This is followed by some questions on the presentation.

Part 3: Information Exchange and Discussion (4 mins)
This part involves a simulated situation, which is presented on a task sheet and the candidate and examiner take on roles to carry out a task. The candidate's role will require him/her to take the initiative in the task. This is followed by a short discussion on a related topic.

Assessment
Candidates are assessed by the examiner conducting the test and by another examiner who listens to a recording of the test. They are assessed on:

• how accurately and appropriately they use the language (grammar and vocabulary)
• how well they develop the conversation and organise their ideas
• how fluently they speak
• how comprehensible their pronunciation is
• how positively they contributed to the conversation.

The Writing Test

The Writing Test has two parts and lasts 45 minutes.

Part 1: Short Message/Letter (50-60 words) 15 mins
The candidate is given a short text, such as a letter, memo or advert, and guidelines for writing a reply or follow-up message or letter.

Part 2: Report or Letter (180-200 words) 30 mins
The candidate writes a short report or letter following brief instructions. For this part, candidates choose a task from two alternatives.

Assessment
Candidates are assessed independently by two trained assessors. They are assessed on:

• how accurately and appropriately they use the language (grammar and vocabulary)
• how well they organise their ideas
• how effectively the piece of writing achieves its purpose.