Linking English-Language Test Scores Onto the Common European Framework of Reference - An Application of Standard-Setting Methodology

Sep 30, 2026

The Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) describes language proficiency on a six-level scale across reading, writing, speaking, and listening. This study links CEFR levels to scores from three English-language assessments: the TOEFL iBT, the TOEIC, and the TOEIC Bridge. Experts used standard-setting methods, including a modified Angoff approach and a modified examinee paper-selection procedure, to build score linkages. Results establish links for TOEFL iBT at B1, B2, and C1, and for TOEIC at A1–C1 (excluding Reading at C1), with TOEIC Bridge mapped to its targeted CEFR levels.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryResearch & Report

FormatPDF

Pages84

Reading Time3 h 32 min

AccessFree to download

Abstract

Key words

TOEFL program background

Standard-setting and linking study

ISSN 1930-9317 TOEFL iBT Research Report TOEFLiBT-06 June 2008 Linking English-Language Test Scores Onto the Common European Framework of Reference: An Application of Standard-Setting Methodology Richard J. Tannenbaum E. Caroline Wylie Listening. Learning. Leading.® Linking English-Language Test Scores Onto the Common European Framework of Reference: An Application of Standard-Setting Methodology Richard J. Tannenbaum and E. Caroline Wylie ETS, Princeton, NJ ETS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. As part ofits educational and social mission and in fulfilling the organization's non-profit Charter and Bylaws, ETS has and continues to learn from and also to lead research that furthers educational and measurement research to advance quality and equity in education and assessment for all users of the organization's products and services. Copyright © 2008 by ETS. All rights reserved. No part of this report may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. Violators will be prosecuted in accordance with both U.S. and international copyright laws. ETS, the ETS logos, GRADUATE RECORD EXAMINATIONS, GRE, LISTENING. LEARNING. LEADING., TOEFL, the TOEFL logo, and TOEIC are registered trademarks of Educational Testing Service (ETS) . The TEST OF ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE is a trademark of ETS. TEST OF ENGLISH FOR INTERNATIONAL COMMUNICATION and TOEIC BRIDGE are trademarks of ETS. College Board is a registered trademark of the College Entrance Examination Board. Abstract The Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) describes language proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening on a 6-level scale. In this study, English-language experts from across Europe linked CEFR levels to scores on three tests: the TOEFL® iBT test, the TOEIC® assessment, and the TOEIC Bridge™ test. Standard-setting methodology (a modified Angoff approach and a modified examinee paper selection approach) was used to construct the linkages. Linkages were established for TOEFL iBT at levels B1, B2, and C1 . Linkages were established for TOEIC at levels A1 through C1, with the exception of Reading atthe C1 level. The TOEIC Bridge test was linked to its three targeted levels of the CEFR. Thereport details the methods, procedures, and results of the study. Key words: English-language tests, TOEFL, TOEIC, TOEIC Bridge test, Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), standard setting The Test of English as a Foreign Language™ (TOEFL®) was developed in 1963 by the National Council on the Testing of English as a Foreign Language. The Council was formed through the cooperative effort of more than 30 public and private organizations concerned with testing the English proficiency of nonnative speakers of the language applying for admission to institutions in the United States. In 1965, Educational Testing Service (ETS) and the College Board® assumed joint responsibility for the program. In 1973, a cooperative arrangement for the operation of the program was entered into by ETS, the College Board, and the Graduate Record Examinations®(GRE®) Board. The membership of the College Board is composed of schools, colleges, school systems, and educational associations; GRE Board members are associated with graduate education. The test is now wholly owned and operated by ETS. ETS administers the TOEFL program under the general direction of a policy board that was established by, and is affiliated with, the sponsoring organizations. Members of the TOEFL Board (previously the Policy Council) represent the College Board, the GRE Board, and such institutions and agencies as graduate schools of business, two-year colleges, and nonprofit educational exchange agencies. 􀂙 􀂙 􀂙 Since its inception in 1963, the TOEFL has evolv

FAQs

What is the purpose of linking test scores to the CEFR?

The study links CEFR proficiency levels to scores from TOEFL iBT, TOEIC, and TOEIC Bridge so that language proficiency can be mapped onto standardized test results.

Which standard-setting methods were used in the study?

The report uses a modified Angoff approach and a modified examinee paper selection approach to construct the linkages.

How were CEFR levels linked for TOEFL iBT and TOEIC?

TOEFL iBT was linked at CEFR levels B1, B2, and C1. TOEIC was linked at A1 through C1, except for Reading at the C1 level.

Sep 30, 2026

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