GUS CANADA ASSESSMENT POLICY

1. Policy Statement

This policy outlines the process and conditions for students wishing to complete GUS Canada Assessment to evaluate the level of English proficiency before applying to GUS Canada institutions.

2. Scope

Since most activities at GUS Canada institutions are conducted in English, it is essential that students who select English as their language of instruction possess strong English writing, comprehension and speaking skills to prepare them for the rigors of the academic curriculum and any workplace components of the program (such as co-op placements).

3. Process

The Gus Canada Assessment is an assessment instrument used to evaluate the English language proficiency of students who have applied for admission to GUS Canada institutions.

The assessment consists of an online test developed by Oxford University Press (designed to assess knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, and phrasing skills), and a Speaking and Listening Assessment. Speaking and Listening Assessment is a proctored interview conducted online using Zoom or Skype.

4. GUS Canada Assessment Levels and Criteria

GCAS Level*	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3	Level 4	Level 5	Level 6
IELTS	3.5 – 4	4 – 4.5	4.5 – 5	5 – 5.5	5.5 – 6	6 – 6.5
CEFR	A2	B1	B1+	B2	B2+	C1

*All equivalencies are estimated

GUS Canada Speaking and Listening Assessment Rubric

	Grammar (range & accuracy)	Vocabulary (range & control)	Fluency & Coherence	Phonological control
6 C1*	The speaker has a high degree of grammatical accuracy and can use a range of complex structures with some flexibility.	Vocabulary is broad, the speaker can use some less common idiomatic vocabulary appropriately, can select from several options in almost all situations.	The speaker produces clear, well-structured language, can express themselves fluently and spontaneously.	Pronunciation is accurate with only occasional lapses.
5 B2+	The speaker has good grammatical control with occasional mistakes when using complex structures.	Vocabulary is sufficient to be understood in most settings and words are used with their correct meaning.	The speaker speaks confidently and naturally with no distracting hesitations. Ideas flow smoothly.	Pronunciation is mostly accurate, with correct inflections, numbers of syllables. Mispronunciation of some words/ sounds is possible.
4 B2	The speaker uses grammar appropriately. Mistakes are rare and do not lead to misunderstanding.	Vocabulary is sufficient to discuss most general topics and field of specialization.	The speaker usually can maintain a flow of speech, with some occasional noticeable pauses.	Pronunciation is generally appropriate, accent (if any) has little to no effect on intelligibility.
3 B1+	The speaker occasionally uses inappropriate verb tenses and/or incorrectly uses parts of speech, however, has the ability to correct grammar without prompts.	Vocabulary is moderate, although the speaker sometimes needs help identifying the correct words. There are only occasional problems with correct meanings of words.	The speaker hesitates several times, but generally seems to know the desired words, even if it is necessary to think about them a bit.	Pronunciation is satisfactory; however, words sometimes have incorrect inflections or are otherwise sometimes hard to understand.
2 B1	The speaker can use some simple grammar correctly. Complex structures (if any) contain errors and may lead to misunderstanding.	Vocabulary is limited however the speaker can explain personal views and opinions on topics such as family, hobbies, work, travel.	The speaker responds slowly, with noticeable pauses but can maintain a conversation on familiar topics.	Pronunciation is moderate, may be difficult to follow due to frequent mispronunciations
1 A2	The speaker makes frequent use of inappropriate verb tenses and/or incorrectly constructs sentences or uses parts of speech.	Vocabulary is very limited and/or incorrect words are often used	The speaker has many hesitations and great difficulty remembering or selecting words	Pronunciation is very hard or impossible to understand by a native speaker

*Council of Europe (2020), Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, teaching, assessment – Companion volume, Council of Europe Publishing, Strasbourg, available at www.coe.int/lang-cefr

5. GUS Canada Assessment Eligibility

Please note that the GCAS test may or may not be accepted as proof of English proficiency depending on the student’s nationality. Our institutions reserve the right to determine conditional admission eligibility based on study permit application requirements.

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Global University Systems (GUS) is an international network of higher-education institutions, brought together by a shared passion for accessible, industry-relevant qualifications.

In Canada, GUS delivers a wide variety of programs, including those offered by the Toronto School of Management, Trebas Institute, the Canadian College of Technology and Business and The Language Gallery.

GUS Canada Assessment Services
22 College Street Suite
Toronto, ON, M5G 1K2, Canada
T: +1 416-800-2204
E: gcas@guscanada.ca