PREPARING FOR THE CANADA GOVERNMENT ENGLISH TEST WHEN APPLYING OR WORKING FOR THE PUBLIC SERVICE
Do you know about the Canada Government English Test (The Government of Canada Second Language Evaluation in the federal public service) needed to apply, to be promoted or keep your job working for the Canadian government? Unfortunately, many do not. This test (there’s also a French test too) should be taken seriously. Many do not. It is not simply a chat, or a basic test for writing and reading skills. Your grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure and how you organize your ideas will be thoroughly tested. You need to prepare. Even native speakers would find the test at least somewhat challenging without any preparation. Whether or not native speakers need to do the test depends on the job, the manager and if you live and work in an environment where you use your native language on a daily basis. It doesn’t matter if you apply for your first job with the Canadian government, or you are a seasoned employee with many years of experience working for the Canadian government. It is not a “walk in the park” (something that is very easy to accomplish) by any “stretch of the imagination” (emphasize that something is not true, does not happen). Take it seriously to avoid disappointment!
So, how do I take the Canada Government English Test seriously? Well, I thought you’d never ask! Before sitting down and preparing the actual test material, you need guidance and direction. Sure, you can scour the Internet and search for information. It is not so easy to find everything, but it is possible if you have the time. It is free. Or, you may register with a school that prepares you for the test. Most schools prepare you in groups to save the school money. It is cheaper than private 1:1 lessons, but not the ideal method. Or, you may hire a private trainer/tutor/teacher/coach who will guide you and give you everything needed to best prepare you. This last option is the most expensive, but it is the ideal and quickest method.
What else will you need before starting to prepare for the test? Well, you need to know the following:
- the latest changes
- the format
- expectations of your English skills needed to achieve your objectives (the language requirements)
- your current English level (are you level A, B, C or Exempt) – you need to prove it!
- the meaning of levels A, B and C
- tips, tricks and strategies
- the important material needed for the test (don’t waste time on the unimportant stuff)
- the types of questions
- past questions and tests to practice with answers
- mock tests (just like the real test with similar questions and the same time limits)
As you can see, there are many other factors (other than just the test material) you should know about the Canada Government English Test. You wouldn’t jump into a lake (even if you know how to swim) without knowing other factors, such as the dangers in the water (i.e. fish, animals, rocks, water temperature, water cleanliness and water currents).
Whatever method you decide, it will take time and probably some money. Make sure you are prepared! Take it seriously! Others are competing with you trying to get ahead! Be sure to visit our shop page if you haven’t already.
Please send us a message using our CONTACT page link if you have a question.