Taking the test

For most candidates, exam day is a very important day.

In this section, read more about:

• how we administer the examinations
• how you can prepare for the examinations
• what you (do not) need on the day of the examination
• the examinations glossary

• We regularly and systematically conduct quality controls in accordance with our continuous commitment to quality. 
• We regularly and systematically evaluate all those who work for the examinations.
• We systematically train all those who work for the examinations according to the guidelines set by the examining bodies.
• We regularly inspect all examination venues and constantly seek new ones that meet the criteria set by the examining bodies.
• We use effective technological means in all our transactions with examinations stakeholders and modern technical equipment in all our examinations administrations.
• We provide special accommodations for those candidates who require special examining conditions.
• We communicate continuously with the educational community in Greece and take into consideration the proposals and suggestions of Language School Owners and language teachers.
• We create a friendly examination environment that provides candidates with the most effective examination conditions.

All members of the Hellenic American Union Center for Examinations and Certifications work hard to ensure excellent examining conditions for all candidates.

We are at your disposal – before, during, and after the examinations – to answer any questions you might have regarding the exams that the Hellenic American Union administers.

• Become familiar with the structure of the test. Learn more about its sections and the number of questions that you will be asked to answer.
• Become familiar with the duration of the test. Practice without breaks and follow closely the guidelines and instructions provided.
• Follow the instructions, directions and suggestions of your teachers.
• Be prepared for the actual test conditions:
  • If you are taking any of the YLE examinations, you may mark your answers with pencil during all sections and coloured pencils (black, blue, brown, green, grey, orange, pink, purple, red, and yellow) wherever this is required. If you are taking the KET for Schools, ECCE, and ECPE, mark your answers with pencil only during all sections. If you are taking the PET for Schools, FCE, CAE, and CPE, mark your answers with pen only during the writing section.
  • During all examinations (except for YLE examinations), mark all your answers on the answer sheet, not in the test booklet. If you are taking any of the YLE examinations, mark all your answers in the test booklet.
  • Do not make any other marks on your answer sheet.
  • If you change your mind about an answer, erase your first mark completely.
  • Fill in one circle for each problem.
  • If you are not sure about an answer, you may guess.
  • In the test booklet you can only keep notes or underline the parts you believe might help you answer correctly the questions posed.

Remember:

• Work on past papers or mock tests does not replace systematic work on language.
• Succeeding in past papers or mock tests does not guarantee success on the actual test.

On the day of the examination, you need to:

• have your identity card, passport, driving licence or temporary identity card (‘tautoprosopia’ with a stamped photo) from the official authority. If you do not bring one of the above mentioned documents, you will not be allowed to enter the examination room.
• bring a watch or clock (except for Cambridge English exams), a soft (#2) pencil and/or pen, and an eraser
• be at the testing center at least 30 minutes before the beginning of the test
• follow the instructions given by the examiner in charge
• behave in a manner that will facilitate the test procedure
• remain calm and focused on your examination and do not allow stress to affect you; staying calm and collected is highly recommended throughout the test!

On the day of the examination, do not:

• bring your cell phones or other electronic devices (all kinds of portable media players, etc)
• bring books, notes, or other aids
• feel stressed

Τhe meaning of the words you will hear during the exam