English Proficiency Exam Practice and Sample Answers

Posted on May 15, 2026 in English

Vocabulary and Sentence Completion

  • The plane finally arrived after a delay of three hours.
  • Appliances and electronics are sold on the second floor.
  • Jennifer said she would forbid her son to play online games if he got low marks on his report card.
  • A notable feature of the symposium was the speech by a famous entrepreneur.
  • You have been an enormous help since I moved out here a few months ago.
  • The black rhinoceros is listed as a critically endangered species.

Reading Comprehension: Festivals and Travel

The Carnival Comparison

  • The passage explains how the carnival started: Passage A
  • The passage says how often the carnival is held: Both Passages
  • The passage suggests what is available to eat at the carnival: Passage A
  • The passage says that people have to pay for parts of the carnival: Passage B
  • The passage describes what people see and do at the carnival: Both Passages
  • The passage explains where the festival is held: Both Passages

Laruna Hotel Features

  • This passage is most likely from a travel brochure.
  • What is the main purpose of the passage? To describe what the Laruna Hotel offers its guests.
  • Which of the following is a feature at the Laruna Hotel? A massage room.
  • According to the passage, the Laruna Hotel restaurant is good value.
  • What must guests at the Laruna Hotel pay extra for? Sailing.
  • Which of the following is a favorite experience of many Laruna Hotel guests? Taking Latin dance classes.
  • Which description best fits the Laruna Hotel? A vacation that includes the beach and some taste of local culture.
  • Which of the facts does the passage tell you about the Laruna Hotel? The number of rooms in the hotel.

Personal Correspondence and Events

Helen’s Birthday Party

  • When is Helen’s birthday? Summer.
  • Who cooked the meat? Patrick.
  • Where was the party? In a garden.
  • Which present did Helen get? Something to wear on her head.
  • Where is Helen going in the evening? To a restaurant.
  • What will Helen’s mother like? Helen’s jewelry.
  • Why did Helen mention Peter in the email? To tell him he left something at the party.
  • Who is Peter? Helen’s colleague.
  • Which day was the party? Saturday.
  • What is Helen’s email mainly about? Thanking people for helping her.

Conversational Responses and Listening

Best Responses for Daily Interactions

  • What is the best response to Speaker 1? What time is breakfast served?
  • What is the best response to Speaker 2? I will tell him if I see him.
  • What is the best response to Speaker 3? Let’s check online and see our options.
  • What is the best response to Speaker 4? I should have studied more for the exam.
  • What is the best response to Speaker 5? OK, I’ll switch it to something more uplifting.
  • What is the best response to Speaker 6? The forecast says it’s going to drizzle tomorrow.
  • What is the best response to Speaker 7? Send me the file and I will print it for you at home.
  • What is the best response to Speaker 8? Let me see if I can be of any help.
  • What is the best response to Speaker 9? There is a rumor that she is going to be the next head of the sales department.
  • What is the best response to Speaker 10? That’s worrisome; you may want to call school to make sure she is OK.

Speaker Matching Exercises

  • Speaker 1: Yes, do not touch it.
  • Speaker 2: Which one did you go see?
  • Speaker 3: Wow, he really is big.
  • Speaker 4: I think math is difficult, too.
  • Speaker 5: How did it break?
  • Speaker 6: I checked, and it was not on.
  • Speaker 7: Oh, congratulations!
  • Speaker 8: Yes, lunch was really good.
  • Speaker 9: There is no room in the dresser drawer.
  • Speaker 10: I’m fine, thanks.
  • Speaker 1: I’ll bring my umbrella tomorrow.
  • Speaker 2: Do you like the color?
  • Speaker 3: This is an old part of the city.
  • Speaker 4: Let’s go dancing.
  • Speaker 5: Near the beach.
  • Speaker 6: Would you like a drink?
  • Speaker 7: My name is Karl.
  • Speaker 8: Yes, I would love to do that.
  • Speaker 9: Yeah, there is one around the corner.
  • Speaker 10: Did you use it?

Advanced Vocabulary and Grammar

  • She is a marvelous student who always has the best grades of her class.
  • Corrina could not pretend she was really enthusiastic about the prospect of another trip to the museum—her fourth this month—but she politely agreed to go with her roommate who is majoring in art history.
  • The main challenge on the tour was that some of the most interesting artifacts were not accessible.
  • People were terrified of her dog because his fluffy coat made him look enormous, but he was really just enthusiastic rather than aggressive.
  • Often regarded as sober and earnest because of her solemn demeanor, Cristina was actually quite a cheerful companion, greeting every experience with good humor.
  • His father stressed that he needed to pass the exam if he was to get into the university he wanted.
  • Anxiety made the actor’s voice tremble when he first emerged onto the stage, but he quickly displayed his characteristically resonant speech.
  • Juan was a very competent manager, but he struggled with time-keeping.
  • Most people find that it is better to have a plan for a long journey, even if you have to change it.
  • His graduation from medical school fulfilled his parents’ great ambition for him.
  • You cannot always trust an individual’s perception of his or her own appearance—Barbara, for example, whom everyone agrees is the most beautiful girl in our class, has always thought herself homely.
  • The director let people know he approved of what they were doing by telling them to “Carry on.”

Financial and Social Articles

Saving Money as a Family

  • What is the article mainly about? Ways of saving money when only one parent is working.
  • What did Pauline and Michael do to save money? They stopped eating at restaurants.
  • Based on the article, what are the benefits of Michael running to work? He does not spend any money on petrol for the car.
  • Which statement describes Pauline and Michael best? They are organized and have good ideas for solutions to problems.
  • When did the couple start saving money? 12 months ago.
  • What is one way the couple prepared for their new financial status? They paid off all debts.
  • Why did Pauline and Michael decide to NOT live with Michael’s parents? Pauline had heard some negative reports from a friend.
  • The article would support which statement about adult parents and adult children? They sometimes find it hard to live together in the same home.

Prescription Drug Advertising

  • The author believes ads for prescription drugs may be harmful: Passage B
  • The passage mentions examples of places where advertisements for prescription drugs appear: Both Passages
  • The author talks about the relative effectiveness of prescription drugs: Neither Passage
  • The author thinks that information in prescription drug ads is useful: Passage A
  • The author believes that medical professionals should decide which drugs people need: Passage B
  • The author believes that critics have not been fair to drug companies: Passage A

Writing Tasks and Sample Essays

  • Write about a memorable experience in your life: One of my most memorable experiences was a surprise birthday party my friends organized. I was genuinely moved, and it reminded me how meaningful strong friendships can be.
  • Write a movie review: I recently watched a film that was both engaging and emotionally powerful. The performances were convincing, and the storyline kept me interested throughout. I would definitely recommend it.
  • Write a room rental description: Bright and comfortable room available in a quiet area. Includes basic furniture and access to shared spaces. Conveniently located near transport and shops—ideal for students or professionals.
  • Write an article on robotics: Recent developments in robotics highlight the growing role of artificial intelligence and healthcare applications. These innovations suggest a future where robots become increasingly integrated into daily life.
  • Write a critique of a celebrity’s behavior: Although highly talented, this celebrity’s recent behavior has raised concerns. Public figures carry influence, so greater responsibility is expected, despite the fact that mistakes are inevitable.
  • Market research comparison: Younger consumers prioritize technology and entertainment, while older groups prefer practicality. As digital trends grow, the younger market shows greater expansion potential, requiring targeted strategies.

Scientific and Cultural Analysis

Mountains and Geography

  • The author describes the origin of the mountains: B
  • The passage explains why this mountain should be considered the highest in the world: A
  • The author mentions an activity the mountain is used for: BOTH
  • The author mentions that there are different opinions on the highest mountain in the world: BOTH
  • The passage mentions dangers associated with the mountain height: A
  • The author suggests that this mountain is really the highest: B
  • The passage explains the cultural significance of a mountain: B
  • The author mentions how the mountain is thought to be currently changing: NEITHER
  • The author believes people should not climb this mountain: NEITHER
  • The author implies that local people do not always agree with how the mountain is used: B

The Water-Bag Theory and Pests

  • The passage mentions experiments conducted in an agricultural environment: B
  • The passage makes a convincing case for the effectiveness of water: NEITHER
  • The passage states that there are more people who do not believe in water-bag theory than there are supporters of the theory: B
  • The passage suggests that people hang water bags and then notice fewer pests: A
  • The author supports the theory that flies are scared of their own reflection: A
  • The passage mentions the claim that water bags make flies look bigger: B
  • The passage mentions the fact that flies have compound eyes: BOTH
  • The passage states that use of water bags is connected to higher levels of fly activity: NEITHER
  • The passage claims that refracted light can affect human optical perceptions: B
  • The passage mentions the claim that refracted light in water confuses flies: A
  • The author of the passage dismisses the water-bag method as ineffective: B
  • The author of the passage cites human beliefs as an explanation: A

Professional and Travel Announcements

Service and Billing Announcements

  • Announcement 1: YOU WANT TO MAKE A PAYMENT
  • Announcement 2: YOU WANT TO INQUIRE ABOUT AN ERROR ON YOUR BILL
  • Announcement 3: YOU NEED TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
  • Announcement 4: YOU WANT TO END YOUR SERVICE
  • Announcement 5: YOU MAY SAVE MONEY BY ANSWERING QUESTIONS
  • Announcement 6: YOU CAN GIVE YOUR OPINION ABOUT THE SERVICES

Airport Announcements

  • Announcement 1: A PLANE IS READY FOR BOARDING
  • Announcement 2: A GATE HAS BEEN CHANGED
  • Announcement 3: A FLIGHT WILL BE LATE
  • Announcement 4: A PERSON IS LATE
  • Announcement 5: A PERSON IS LOST
  • Announcement 6: A PASSENGER MUST OBEY

Listening Comprehension Transcripts

Retiring in Panama

  1. What does the speaker say about health care in Panama? Health insurance policy costs one-third of what it does in the US; Medical services are affordable.
  2. What does the speaker say about the language in Panama? She could live in Panama without knowing the local language.
  3. Why did the speaker finally decide to retire abroad? She spent three winters in Panama.
  4. Which tips does the speaker give before retiring abroad? Take into account the time and cost of returning.
  5. Which statements best describe the speaker? She used to work in health care; She met her current partner at a dance class.
  6. What is one main topic the speaker talks about? Her reasons for retiring abroad.

The Reality of Rocket Science

  1. What does the speaker’s description suggest about the rocket scientist on King of the Jungle? He specialized in aerospace; His professional knowledge was not used.
  2. According to the speaker, which TWO of the following distinguish science from engineering? Science focuses on observation and experimentation; Engineering applies science to practical problems.
  3. The speaker’s explanation of astronautical and aeronautical engineering suggests… Both develop technologies for flight vehicles; Both must solve problems created by extremes of temperatures and load.
  4. The speaker’s comment on the development of a new flight vehicle suggests that… They must make trade-offs between the effects of conditions inside and outside the Earth’s atmosphere.
  5. The speaker’s description of his current project suggests that… Systematically trying out different combinations of materials and making predictions about the outcomes are part of his work.
  6. Which one of the following most accurately restates the primary subject of the speaker’s talk? What rocket scientists actually do.

Business and Marketing Insights

Corporate Logos and Consumer Behavior

  1. What is the purpose of mentioning Nike, Apple, and Coca-Cola? To provide concrete examples of famous corporate logos.
  2. The article suggests that market research studies support which statement? Company logos can influence consumers’ opinions about a product.
  3. Which statement does the quotation in paragraph 2 support? Consumers’ associations with particular shapes are based on real-world experiences.
  4. Which statement about the results of the INSEAD research studies is true? They revealed something new about consumers’ reactions to logo shapes.

Professional Correspondence: Letter to Mrs. Chang

  1. Why did Susan write this letter? To show that she is willing to try an entry-level position in a new industry.
  2. How long has Susan been out of the workforce? Five years.
  3. Why did Susan mention the Moonlight Award? To demonstrate her success working as an award coordinator.
  4. Which statement accurately describes Susan’s accomplishments? She successfully used her professional expertise in a fund-raising project.

Speaking Practice and Personal Responses

  • When is your birthday? My birthday is May 1st.
  • Tell me about your hobbies. I really enjoy dancing in my free time and watching TV series and movies.
  • What type of food do you like and dislike? I like French fries with meat, as well as pizza and sushi. I don’t like vegetables because they are bitter.
  • Do you think people spend too much time on their mobile phones? Yes, I think people spend too much time on their mobile phones. The main reason is that they are addictive. Apps constantly send notifications, which forces us to check them every few minutes. This takes time away from real-life connection.
  • How’s the weather today? Today is cloudy; there are many clouds visible.
  • What do you usually do on the weekend? I usually have lunch with my family on weekends, and we watch movies.
  • What did you do on your last holiday? On my last holiday, I went to the beach because it’s the place that relaxes me the most.

Detailed Writing and Review Samples

  1. Audience Survey Feedback: I have watched a few shows recently, including a drama series and a reality show. I enjoyed the strong characters and engaging storylines in the drama, while the reality shows were entertaining and relaxing.
  2. Movie Review: Warm Christmas is a vibrant return that recaptures the irreverent essence of 31 Minutos. Titirilquén suffers a heat wave, forcing Bodoque to go and find the gifts himself. The film combines absurd satire with rich and careful visual production.
  3. Room Rental Description: Bright, furnished room available in a quiet, modern apartment. It features a comfortable double bed, a large window with city views, a spacious closet, and a desk area. Located just five minutes from the metro station.
  4. Celebrity Critique: Adam Sandler’s recent shift toward serious, dramatic roles—as seen in Hustle and Uncut Gems—is a commendable display of artistic growth. This change demonstrates his willingness to challenge himself and leverage his genuine acting talent.
  5. Goal Achievement Plan: My plan consists of three steps. First, I set specific goals. Second, I break them down into monthly tasks. Finally, I review my progress weekly to adjust my efforts and stay motivated.
  6. Job Advice Email: My advice is to first update your CV and customize it for every job. Also, use LinkedIn to network actively. Finally, prepare for interviews by practicing common questions and researching the company thoroughly.
  7. Market Research Analysis: Our analysis compares Millennials (28–43) and Gen Z (12–27). Millennials prioritize experiences and brand loyalty, while Gen Z seeks authenticity and value, driving trends through social media.