IELTS and TOEFL is a monopolistic tax on the higher education system. In 2024 it should be simple to book an english test online and get a result in a few days. The high cost and inefficiencies is an added burden placed on students which means they miss deadlines and it puts off students from applying to universities. We will aim to fix this.
In the landscape of higher education, the dominance of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) has long been a contentious issue. Often described as a monopolistic tax, these tests impose significant financial and logistical burdens on students seeking to prove their English proficiency. As we move into 2024, the need for a more accessible and efficient solution has never been more apparent.
The High Costs and Inefficiencies of IELTS and TOEFL
The IELTS and TOEFL tests are not just expensive; they are also often inconvenient. Many students find themselves needing to travel to another city, sometimes even another country, to take the test. This adds not only to the financial burden but also to the stress and time required for the application process. The inefficiencies don’t end there; the waiting period for results can be excruciatingly long, causing students to miss crucial application deadlines and, in some cases, deterring them from applying to universities altogether.
A Vision for Change: An Online English Test
The solution to this problem is clear: an online English test that is easily accessible, quick, and cost-effective. In 2024, the technology exists to make this a reality. Students should be able to book a test online, take it from the comfort of their own homes, and receive results within a few days. This would not only alleviate the financial strain on students but also streamline the application process, making higher education more accessible to a wider range of individuals.
The Impact of a New Online English Test
The introduction of a new online English test could have a profound impact on the higher education system. By removing the barriers imposed by the current monopolistic testing systems, more students would have the opportunity to study abroad, enriching the diversity and talent pool at universities worldwide. Moreover, it would level the playing field, ensuring that English proficiency is not just a privilege for those who can afford the high costs and logistical challenges of IELTS and TOEFL.
Conclusion
The time has come to challenge the monopoly of IELTS and TOEFL and embrace a more equitable and efficient system for English proficiency testing. As we look towards the future, the development of a new online English test represents a crucial step towards making higher education more accessible and inclusive. It is a change that is not just desirable but necessary, and one that I am committed to making a reality.
