What is Kaplan Test of English?
Kaplan Test of English (commonly referred to as KTE) is an adaptive online test that assesses your level of English language proficiency in different skills. During an assessment, you may be asked to listen to conversations, read emails and articles, answer comprehension questions, write an essay, and/or speak into the microphone on your computer.
Normally, when you take a paper-based test in school, every test taker answers the same questions. KTE is different. When you take an adaptive assessment, you answer different questions than other test takers because the testing system chooses questions that match your English level.
Highline College uses KTE’s “Main Flight” test, which consists of Listening and Reading. These sections of your assessment do not have a timer. Each section will end when the testing system has enough information about your English level. Don’t worry if your test is longer or shorter than other test takers’. Just take your time and do your best. However, the total average test time for Listening and Reading is slightly over an hour.
Who needs to take KTE?
Some international students at Highline College are asked to take the KTE test for English placement. Other international students will take a different English assessment, called DSP. Please consult with an ISP Advisor to determine which test, if any, you will be taking. Depending on your application materials and program of study, you may not need to take any assessment at all.
How do I take KTE?
If an ISP Advisor determines that you will need KTE for English placement, our Placement and Testing Center staff will set up a KTE account for you. KTE must be taken in-person and is administered on the Highline Campus at the Placement & Testing Center.
When you’re here in Washington State and ready to take the test, take the following actions:
- Visit the ISP office (Building 25, Room 506) to request your KTE login details. See ISP open hours.
- Bring your login details and a photo ID to the Placement & Testing Center in Building 1 (East Entrance). See PTC open hours. Note that the PTC stops accepting testers one hour before closing.
- Take the test. It typically takes 60-90 minutes to complete.
- Meet with Entry Advising after your KTE test. Entry Advising is located in Building 6, on the 2nd floor. See Entry Advising open hours.
- Return to the ISP office for assistance enrolling in classes.
How can I prepare to take KTE?
We think of KTE as a snapshot in time, showing us what your English skills are today. There is no way to prepare for, or study for, the test. It is important that you are well-rested and comfortable on your test day, so that you can do your best.
Can I take the KTE more than once?
We understand that there may be situations when a student may need to retake KTE for more accurate placement. However, your eligibility to take the KTE a second or third time is determined by many factors, which include your first KTE score, your number of study weeks at Highline College, and your Highline grades. Therefore, we encourage students to plan to take the test just once. Please contact an ISP Advisor for more information.