Business Language Testing Service
BULATS
What is BULATS?
BULATS- Business Language Testing Service was an English language test for business (workplace) environment provided by Cambridge English Language Assessment. It was an alternative to the TOEIC English language test from ETS, measuring the everyday English skills of people working in an international environment. Since 2017, an online version of the test is the only available option for test-takers. It has been officially retired in December 2019.
BULATS could have been taken in two alternatives – Part A- Speaking and Writing or Part B- Reading and Listening (Part B was the more popular option).
Test results:
BULATS used the score from 0-100 points and then provided the CEFR equivalent.
BULATS: CEFR level
90–100: C2 (Upper advanced)
75–89: C1 (Advanced)
60–74: B2 (Upper intermediate)
40–59: B1 (Intermediate)
20–39: A2 (Elementary)
10–19: A1 (Beginner)
(See more information about English proficiency levels in a detailed comparison of BULATS score with CEFR levels, TOEFL, TOEIC and Cambridge ESOL)
An official test result was available immediately and was valid for 2 years (similarly to IELTS).
Test duration:
The BULATS Reading and Listening part took about 60 minutes, the Speaking test 15 minutes, and the Writing test 45 minutes.
Test fees:
The price for one BULATS part is approx. 170 EUR, and both parts cost about 300 EUR.
BULATS and TrackTest English test– how does it compare?
TrackTest English Proficiency Test is a set of six general-purpose English proficiency level tests. They provide an assessment of 4 skills- grammar (use of English), reading, listening, and optionally speaking and writing.
Scale:
TrackTest uses the adaptive placement test and then 6 CEFR proficiency levels (A1 to C2). Results and language certificates are available immediately after the completion of the level tests. Evaluation of the optional speaking test is delivered 6 days after the test completion.
The English certificate has lifetime validity.
Time and place:
TrackTest level tests usually take up to 45 minutes, extra 20 minutes with the Speaking and Writing test.
It is delivered online. It can be taken anywhere (unless the assessing institution requires your on-site presence) or in the assessment center.
Price:
TrackTest access to all English proficiency level tests costs 10x less. During 12 months, you may repeat the same level multiple times after 30 days. See what else is included in the license price.
Companies and organizations using or accepting TrackTest English exams in the business environment.
BULATS and TrackTest side-by-side comparison
| BULATS | Tracktest | |
|---|---|---|
| Scale/grading | Score from 0-100 aligned to the CEFR level | Six CEFR levels (from A1 to C2) and % within the level |
| Assessed skills | Part B: Reading, Listening Part A: Writing, Speaking | Core test (Grammar, Reading, Listening) Complete test (Core + Speaking&Writing) |
| Duration of the test | 60 min + 60 min | 45 minutes + 20 min |
| Results available | Immediately for Reading and Listening | Immediately (+ the S&W exam and verification in 7 days). |
| Validity of the English certificate | 2 years | Lifetime |
| Price | Approx. 300 EUR | Significantly less |