LanguageCert Academic Test Format: Complete Guide to All 4 Sections

The LanguageCert Academic test takes 2 hours 34 minutes and has 4 sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. It’s approved by the Australian Department of Home Affairs for all visa types, and many test-takers find it more approachable than PTE or IELTS. Here’s what you need to know about each section.

Overview of the LanguageCert Academic Test

LanguageCert Academic is a computer-based English proficiency test you take at authorised test centres worldwide. It uses CEFR levels (B1 to C2) to measure your English, which maps directly to Australian visa requirements.

Here’s what makes it different from other tests:

• Human examiner for Speaking (you talk to a real person via video call)
• Audio plays twice in Listening (not just once like PTE)
• Flexible timing in Writing (you decide how to split your 50 minutes)
• No integrated scoring (each section is scored independently)

The test is accepted for Australian skilled migration visas including subclass 189, 190, and 491. Results come within 5 working days.

Overall Test Structure

Total: 2 hours 34 minutes

Explore each section in detail:

One thing I really like about this test: you can take the written sections (Listening, Reading, Writing) on one day and Speaking on another. Handy if you need time to prepare separately.

Pro Tip: The written sections are computer-delivered at the test centre. Speaking happens via video call with a trained examiner, not AI.

Speaking Test Format (14 Minutes)

This is where LanguageCert really stands out. You’re not talking to a computer. You’re having a conversation with an actual human examiner.

The Speaking section has 4 parts:

Why This Matters

With a human examiner, you can self-correct if you make a mistake. Say something unclear? Just rephrase it. The examiner understands context and natural hesitations.

Compare that to PTE where you’re speaking into a microphone and an algorithm decides if your pause was too long. Many students find the human interaction less stressful.

Key Point: The examiner scores your communicative effect, not just your pronunciation. If you get your message across clearly, that counts.

Writing Test Format (50 Minutes)

You get 50 minutes total for 2 writing tasks. And here’s the thing: you decide how to split that time.

Part 1 gives you an infographic (chart, graph, or diagram) and asks you to write a report describing the data. You need to identify trends, make comparisons, and draw conclusions.

Part 2 is a classic academic essay. You’ll discuss a topic, present arguments, and give your opinion. Standard essay structure works well here: introduction, two body paragraphs, conclusion.

No Integrated Scoring

Unlike PTE where Writing affects your Reading score (yes, really), LanguageCert keeps things separate. Your Writing score is just about your writing. Makes preparation more straightforward.

Pro Tip: Most students spend about 15 minutes on Part 1 and 35 minutes on Part 2. But if you’re faster at essays, adjust accordingly.

Reading Test Format (50 Minutes)

Reading has 30 questions across 5 parts. Each part tests different skills.

Part-by-Part Breakdown

Part 1a shows highlighted words in a text. You choose the best synonym from 3 options. This is pure vocabulary, so read the sentence carefully for context.

Part 1b is gap-fill with 3 options per gap. Grammar focused. Think prepositions, articles, verb forms.

Part 2 gives you a text with 6 removed sentences. You match them from 8 options (2 are distractors). Look for pronouns and linking words that connect sentences.

Part 3 has 4 short texts on a common theme. Questions ask you to find specific information. Scanning skills matter here.

Part 4 is one longer academic text with multiple-choice questions. This tests detailed comprehension and inference. The trickiest part for most students.

Listening Test Format (40 Minutes)

The Listening section has 30 questions in 4 parts. And here’s the best part: every audio clip plays twice.

Why Audio Playing Twice Helps

In PTE, audio plays once. Miss something? Too bad. In LanguageCert, you get a second chance. Use the first listening to get the general idea, then the second to confirm your answers.

Part 3 note-taking tip: You fill gaps with a maximum of 3 words each. Write exactly what you hear. Spelling matters.

Part 4 features 3 different speakers in a debate or discussion. You need to identify who says what and track different viewpoints. Tricky, but the double listening helps.

Key Point: Use the time before each audio to read the questions. Know what you’re listening for before the clip starts.

Timing Summary and Test Day

Here’s your test day at a glance:

You’ll take Listening, Reading, and Writing back-to-back at the test centre. Speaking can be same day or scheduled separately.

No breaks between written sections, so pace yourself. And drink water before, not during.

How LanguageCert Compares to PTE and IELTS

Many students ask which test is “easier.” Honestly? It depends on your strengths. But here’s how they compare:

Who Should Choose LanguageCert?

If you’re uncomfortable talking to a computer for Speaking, LanguageCert’s human examiner is a relief. If you struggle with Listening because audio goes too fast, the double playback helps.

But if you want the fastest results or prefer fully computer-based testing without video calls, PTE might suit you better.

The Bottom Line: LanguageCert removes some of the pressure points that trip students up in other tests. The human Speaking examiner and double Listening audio make it feel less like a race against the clock.

Understanding the LanguageCert Academic Test Format

The LanguageCert Academic test format follows a clear structure designed to assess your English language proficiency across all four skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Unlike some other English language tests, this LanguageCert exam separates the written exam from the spoken exam, giving you flexibility in your preparation and test booking.

Before your test date, you’ll want to review the qualification handbook which outlines exactly how each section works. The LanguageCert Academic exam format is straightforward: you complete the written exam (listening, reading, writing) at a test centre, then schedule your spoken exam via video call.

How Marvel Edu Helps You Prepare

Marvel Edu’s LanguageCert platform gives you everything you need to prepare effectively:

The platform covers all 13 question types across Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Practice mode lets you focus on weak areas, while timed mode builds exam-day stamina.

Why Marvel Edu? The same AI technology trusted by 85,000+ PTE test takers is now available for LanguageCert Academic.

Exam Preparation Tips

Proper preparation makes all the difference for any English test. Here’s how to approach your LanguageCert Academic exam preparation:

Start with mock tests to understand the LanguageCert test format. Practice papers help you get familiar with question types and timing. Many test takers find that doing timed practice under exam conditions builds confidence.

Focus your preparation on areas where you need improvement. If listening is your weak point, practice with academic conversations and lectures. For writing, work on structuring reports and essays within the time limits.

On exam day, arrive at the test centre early. Bring your identification and test booking confirmation. The written exam takes about 2 hours 20 minutes, so pace yourself through each section.

Test Results and What They Mean

After completing the LanguageCert exam, you’ll receive your test results within 5 working days. Your test report shows CEFR levels for each skill, which maps directly to Australian immigration requirements for English language proficiency.

For visa application purposes, you need to demonstrate competent English at minimum. Higher education institutions and immigration authorities recognise LanguageCert Academic as proof of language proficiency for academic English requirements.

Unlike LanguageCert International ESOL exams or LanguageCert ESOL tests designed for general purposes, the LanguageCert Academic exam specifically targets those needing English proficiency for university admission or skilled migration.

Comparing English Language Tests

When choosing between different English language tests, consider your strengths. PTE Academic uses computer scoring. IELTS Academic has human examiners. The Pearson Test of English and Cambridge English exams each have their own formats.

LanguageCert Academic stands out because it combines human examiner interaction in speaking with the efficiency of computer-based written sections. The Occupational English Test serves healthcare professionals specifically, while LanguageCert Academic works for general skilled migration and higher education institution admission.

Whether you’re applying for a UK visa, Australian PR, or university admission, understanding the LanguageCert Academic test format helps you prepare effectively. With proper exam preparation, mock tests, and focused practice, you can achieve the English proficiency scores you need.

Quick Reference Checklist

Here’s what to remember about the LanguageCert Academic format:

✅ Total test time: 2 hours 34 minutes

✅ 4 sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking

✅ Speaking is with a human examiner via video call

✅ Listening audio plays twice in every part

✅ Writing has flexible time allocation (you decide)

✅ No integrated scoring between sections

✅ Results in 5 working days

✅ Accepted for Australian skilled migration visas

❌ Don’t confuse with LanguageCert ESOL (different test)

❌ Don’t expect home-based testing for visa purposes (test centre only)

❌ Don’t assume PTE timing applies here