The SiL English Subject Tests 2025 are created by graduates from the University of Oxford, ensuring an exam that is both academically challenging and pedagogically robust. The tests feature meticulously structured questions designed to accurately gauge students’ language proficiency, distinguishing high achievers on a national and international scale.
1. Register
Sign up directly via your school or through the SiL’s National Coordinator in your country
2. Get Ready
Practise using English in different settings as often as possible. Look at our Sample papers, and answer keys to get yourself ready for the format of the test.
Look at the curriculum frameworks with sample lists of vocabulary available here.
3. Participate in our English Subject Test 2025
Confirm with the hosting school/National Coordinator which test format you will be taking, (paper or online), Make sure you are well prepared for either type.
4. Awards
Earn a certificate of participation (with distinct levels of achievement) & a detailed result slip.
What sets our SiL Test apart from others?
Precision meets personal attention
Unlike automated grading systems, our Language Testing System is evaluated by our in-house team of specialists, composed of current students and graduates from Oxford and Cambridge University (Oxbridge). This approach ensures that each response is assessed with exceptional accuracy and care, recognising not only the correct answers but also the depth of students’ understanding.
We also offer an online version of the test upon request from National Coordinators or hosting schools. This option allows students to participate globally.
Designed for academic excellence
The Language Testing System is meticulously aligned with the National Curriculum for England, encompassing the objectives and key language components detailed in its appendices.
Our tests are structured to assess the essential skills—reading, grammar, and vocabulary—for each year group, whilst also incorporating slightly advanced language items to challenge students and differentiate ability levels. By mirroring and surpassing the curriculum’s expectations, this test provides a meaningful benchmark for students, teachers, and schools dedicated to achieving excellence in English language education.
Comprehensive Analysis for both Students and Schools
Students and schools receive comprehensive feedback. Every student receives a Certificate of Participation along with a detailed result slip, breaking down performance across key language areas, offering deep insights into strengths, areas for improvement, and strategies for growth.
Additionally, hosting schools benefit from an in-depth analysis report summarising trends, strengths, and shared challenges across the year groups. This data-driven approach, accompanied by qualitative analysis, empowers educators in the school with actionable insights, allowing them to refine their teaching strategies and effectively support their students’ linguistic growth.
About the Chief Test Designer
Our Chief Test Designer brings a wealth of expertise and innovation to the SiL Testing System, as a:
- Masters graduate from the University of Oxford’s Department of Education
- Qualified Teacher in the UK
- TEDx Speaker
With years of teaching experience both in the UK and internationally, Solomon has gained invaluable insights from diverse cultural and educational settings.
Drawing from the recent research and best practices observed, he and his team at SiL have meticulously designed the SiL Subject Tests to challenge students’ abilities while fostering growth and confidence.
Oxford University Cert.
QTS Cert
As a TEDx Speaker, Solomon delivered an inspiring talk on “Reflective Teaching,” highlighting the critical role of introspection and continuous growth in the teaching profession. His educational philosophy, which champions curiosity, critical thinking, and self-awareness, is woven into the very fabric of our SiL Subject Tests. This unique approach ensures that our tests are not only academically rigorous but also profoundly meaningful and engaging for students.
Frameworks & Detailed Guidelines
available
Each question in our SiL Subject Test is carefully designed to align with key curriculum objectives while incorporating advanced questions to challenge and distinguish high-achieving students. This ensures that participants are assessed using a familiar yet aspirational framework that fosters growth and excellence.
Key reminders have been added to the Guides for Parents, Schools, and National Coordinators, which can be accessed conveniently here
SiL English Subject Test 2025
Key Dates and Test Fees
The SiL English Subject Tests 2025 are going to be held between 19th May and 30th May 2025. The registration deadline will be communicated to you by the school or National Coordinator. Note: The latest registration should be by early May (Do note some of our hosting schools or National Coordinators may provide an early-bird discount if you register early, so it is always good to register earlier than later). For the actual dates and fees of the test, please refer to the announcements made by your school (if it is a hosting school for our test), or you can directly contact our SiL’s National Coordinator in your country to make an enquiry / register for the test.
Format and Duration of Test
The SiL English Subject Test is designed to be conducted either in the printed or online format. We provide online versions to accommodate the hosting schools and home-based participating students. The total number of questions is forty across all 9-year levels, with 16 in Reading, 17 in Grammar and 7 in Vocabulary.
Allowed timing for tests:
Years 1-3 papers last for 45 minutes.
Years 4-6 papers last for 60 minutes.
Years 7-9 papers last for 75 minutes.
Each participating student will get a certificate and result slip issued by SiL. Our scheme differentiates the performance of students by the level of awards that they will receive.
The certificate and the scheme are as follows:
-Top Performance Award (+ Medal) for the Top 1% participants.
-Gold Award for the next 10%.
-Silver Award for the next 25%.
-Bronze Award for the next 50%.
-Certificate of Participation to all remaining participants.
*Please note that the percentile may be subject to slight adjustment with reference to the performance of each group of participants. The number of students who are attaining the same overall score is another deciding factor that affects the modulation.
