Cambridge Vs Trinity

Trinity vs Cambridge

Let me start by saying that both these qualifications are valuable and worthwhile attaining. Moreover, if you are in any doubt as to which exam or level to take or just want to get more information about any of these or other English qualifications, then please don’t hesitate to drop in to the academy or give us a ring. We are here to help you!

Recognition

Cambridge exams have been around for the longest and are very well established, with over 12000 institutions and organizations worldwide recognizing a Cambridge certificate as a measure of your ability to use the English language.

Trinity is still relatively new when compared to Cambridge but is becoming just as recognized worldwide. Thousands of schools, universities and companies throughout the world recognize Trinity qualifications and the numbers are growing every day. 

Both Cambridge and Trinity are included in the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). And both cater for all levels within the CEFR.

Style of Exam

I know it depends on what your strengths and weaknesses are but I’m sure you’ll agree when I say that all of us get nervous when it comes to exams. That is why I’m going to give you a brief description of what both exams entail.

Cambridge exams are broken down in to various sections; Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking and Use of English. I’m sure if you are reading this then you are familiar with the usual four skills but may be wondering “What is Use of English?” Well it’s unique to Cambridge and consists of 50 questions over five parts. The test lasts 1 hour. The test uses a variety of tasks: multiple choice, gap-fill, word formation, key word transformation and gapped sentences. The Use of English test requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge of English vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to the level of the exam they are sitting.

Apart from the CAE, FCE etc general English, Cambridge also offer business English exams.

More information about the format of the Cambridge exams can be found using the following link:http://www.cambridgeenglish.org/exams/advanced/

Trinity exams follow a different format. Trinity offer a speaking and listening exam (GESE). We’re proud to say that last summer we had a 100% pass rate here at Midleton School for the GESE. This exam involves an interview/conversation with an examiner and depending on the level, you can prepare a topic of conversation. The exam itself only lasts a matter of a few minutes which certainly takes the stress off of the examinee. Also on offer is the Trinity Integrated Skills in English (ISE) exam which tests all the skills reading, writing, listening and speaking. For more specific business related English they also offer the Spoken English for Work exam (SEW).

More information on the Trinity exams can be found using the following link: http://www.trinitycollege.com/site/?id=263

If you want to see how the levels of each exam compare then have a quick look at the chart below:

   

I will finish how I started by saying that both Trinity and Cambridge qualifications are valuable tools to aid your progress professionally and academically. The choice of exam really is down to you and what you want to get out of it.

Hope this post helps you guiding through the choice of these exams :)

See ya!