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At what levels is Swedex available?
At present Swedex is available at two levels, A2 and B1 according to the Council of Europe’s Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). An exam at the B2 level is currently being developed. We hope to be able to offer this exam from the spring 2011.
How do I know what my language level is?
You can find out your approximate level by doing Folkuniversitetet’s placement test in Swedish or a self-assessment test where you can try to assess your knowledge of Swedish on your own.
What can I use Swedex for?
Swedex is an international certificate documenting your competence in Swedish corresponding to the A2 or B1 levels according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. It serves as useful documentation if, for example, you want to work in Sweden, continue your studies in Swedish or participate in a course held in Swedish which does not require advanced knowledge of the language. On the back of the certificate there is a description in both Swedish and English of what a learner is able to do at each level.
How can I compare the Swedex level to the Swedish Sfi exam?
Swedex B1 is at approximately the same level as the Sfi course D. While the Sfi exam tests your ability to pass a specific course, Swedex tests your general competence in Swedish.
Does Swedex B1 satisfy the language requirements for entrance to a Swedish university?
No, Swedex does not satisfy the eligibility requirements for university studies in Sweden. There is a special entrance test in the Swedish language for university studies: TISUS.
See www.nordiska.su.se/tisus. The TISUS level is equivalent to C1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages whereas Swedex is currently offered only at the B1 level.
Do I have to attend a specific course in Swedish to take the Swedex examinations?
No. Swedex is an independent examination in Swedish. In other words, it makes no difference where or how you have learnt Swedish.
How can I prepare for the Swedex examination?
One good way to prepare for the exam is to attend a course in Swedish at your level. There is also a mock examination on the Swedex homepage that looks like the real exam. Take a look at it and see what the exam is like.
Where can I take the exam?
You can do the Swedex exams at Folkuniversitetet in Sweden and at 50 other examination centres outside Sweden. See the list of examination centres in Sweden and outside Sweden.
How old do I have to be to take the Swedex exam?
To take the exam you should be at least 14 years old and not have Swedish as your mother tongue. Persons not yet 14 years of age who have special circumstances may also be eligible to take the Swedex exam. Your Swedex examination centre should apply to
Swedex in Gotheburg.
When should I apply to take the exam?
Normally you should apply 5-6 weeks before the exam. It is usually possible to apply up to one week before the exam. Contact the examination centre where you want to do the exam for more information.
How much does it cost to take the Swedex exam?
The fee varies from centre to centre. Contact the examination centre where you want to do the exam for more information.
How do I apply to take the exam?
You apply to the examination centre where you want to do the exam. Click here to see the addresses for all the centres in Sweden and exam centres outside Sweden. You can download the application form here. Send the application form to you examination centre together with a copy of your passport or ID.
What is included in the Swedex exam?
Swedex tests all language skills. The exam is made up of the following papers:
Reading comprehension
Vocabulary and grammar
Listening comprehension
Written production
Oral production
How long does the examination take?
Swedex A2 takes approximately 2 hours for the written parts (including a break). The speaking test is taken individually according to a special timetable and takes about 8 minutes for each person. Swedex B1 takes approximately 3 hours for the written parts (including a break). The speaking test is taken in pairs according to a special timetable and takes approximately 15 minutes per pair. You will also have an additional 15 minutes for preparation.
Am I allowed to use dictionaries, grammars, electronic dictionaries or other aids?
No books or other aids are permitted during the exam.
Can I take the exam more than one time?
Yes, you can do the exam again. You have to retake the whole exam; it is not possible to only retake one part. You must pay the full fee each time you do the exam.
How is the exam assessed?
The results on the written papers (reading comprehension, listening comprehension, vocabulary and grammar and written production) are added together in the assessment. The speaking test is assessed separately. You must pass at least 60% on both the written and the speaking tests to be awarded a grade of Pass. You will receive an overall grade. The following grades will be awarded:
- Pass with special distinction
- Pass with distinction
- Pass
- Fail
Can I pass the exam even if I fail one of the test papers?
You have to pass the speaking test (at least 60%). Your points on the written parts (reading comprehension, listening comprehension, vocabulary and grammar and written production) are added together. You must have 60% of the total points to pass. In other words, it is possible to fail one of the test papers and still pass the exam.
Will I receive a certificate?
When you have passed the exam, you will receive a certificate and a paper with your results on the five test papers separately. Those who do not pass the exam will receive their results on the five test papers.
How long will it take before I receive my certificate?
You should receive your certificate approximately 6-7 weeks after the exam. |
