Most remote employers ask for proof that you can use English clearly—especially for international roles. Online English level tests come in several formats, each accepted by different companies. Picking the right test can shape how far your CV goes in the stack.
If you’re not sure where your skills stand, you can check my English level in just a few minutes before you apply.
Comparison Table: English Level Test Formats Used in Remote Hiring
Online English assessments split into two camps. Some, like IELTS or TOEFL, line up with globally recognized CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) levels—A2 to C2. Others, such as Duolingo English Test and many company-specific exams, set their own scoring benchmarks. Picking the right test is like choosing the right adapter plug for a foreign outlet: the format needs to fit the employer’s needs or it just won’t work.
| Test Provider | Test Format | Duration | Accepted Proficiency Scale |
|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS | Academic/General, In-person/Online | 2h 45m | CEFR (A2-C2) |
| TOEFL | Online | 2h | CEFR (B1-C2) |
| Cambridge English | Various (FCE, CAE, CPE) | 1-4h | CEFR (A2-C2) |
| Duolingo English Test | Online Adaptive | 1h | Proprietary (Linked to CEFR) |
| International English Test (IET) | Online/Adaptive | 30m | CEFR (A1-C2) |
CEFR-aligned scores travel better—they’re like international passports for your skills. Custom tests might be quicker but can feel like showing up to a global conference with only a local ID card.
- IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge: Widely accepted for international hiring.
- Duolingo, IET: Convenient, fast, but some regional or company-specific limits.
- CEFR alignment matters for global roles.
How English Test Results Impact CV Shortlisting for Remote Roles
HR managers rarely read every CV word-by-word. They scan for proof of your English ability as one of the first markers. For remote jobs, the screening often works like airport security: no right documents, no entry. It’s standard for employers to look for clear mention of an English test result and—crucially—its CEFR equivalent, like B2 or C1.
Examples? Tech companies hiring globally might require minimum B2 for most customer-facing roles. For senior or leadership jobs, C1 or even C2 is the bar. A marketing applicant listing TOEFL 95 or an IELTS 7.0 with CEFR C1 written next to it immediately looks more credible than someone claiming ‘good English skills’ without backup. Some applicant tracking systems flag CVs with no English proof and move them aside before a human ever sees them.
The process isn’t random—it’s methodical, like sorting resumes with color-coded tabs. For a deep dive on how employers compare standardized tests, see IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Test Is Harder for Career Success in 2026?; it unpacks what makes some test scores stand out over others in competitive hiring.
- Employers expect test proof, not just a self-rating.
- CEFR anchors your skills to global standards.
- Different remote roles set different bars for score minimums.
English Proficiency Tests and Salary Tiers in Remote Work
Here’s where language turns into real money. Many companies offer clearer salary brackets based on English test results—C1 and above almost always unlock higher brackets or make you eligible for promotions. Think of language skill as raising your maximum ceiling, not just opening the door.
Job ads today may list “starting salary from $2,000 for B2” and “$2,700+ for C1/C2″—sometimes even within the same company, for identical roles if only English skill varies. Verified scores serve as the currency exchange rate: you show you’re worth the premium because your communication won’t hold the team back, no matter the timezone.
- High English level = access to global positions.
- Salary offers rise with verifiable test scores.
- Skill proof can help skip probation or promotion waitlists.
Preparation for these tests is crucial. Today, review a recent job post for your target role and note the exact English requirements—then use a sample test matching that format. This direct approach can focus your practice and save you weeks of guesswork.
FAQ
Which online English test do most remote employers accept?
IELTS and TOEFL remain the safest bets for wide recognition, but International English Test (IET) and Duolingo English Test are increasingly accepted for tech, startup, and customer support roles.
How fast can I get an English level certificate online?
Some tests, like International English Test and Duolingo, deliver digital results and certificates within 24 hours. Bigger exams like IELTS and TOEFL need 3–7 days for official results.
What’s the minimum English level for most remote jobs?
B2 (upper-intermediate) is the basic threshold for many international remote roles. Higher-paying or leadership jobs tend to require C1 or even C2.
Is a CEFR-aligned score really necessary?
For jobs involving international teams or clients, yes. A CEFR score is seen like an international driver’s license for language skills—it’s a universal benchmark that speeds up hiring.
Can I use more than one test score on my CV?
Yes, listing multiple scores (if all are recent and valid) can strengthen your CV—especially if you clarify the CEFR level for each. Just make sure you don’t create confusion by mixing outdated results.