What is the required score on the STEP test?

When we talk about STEP scores, we are referring to a specific evaluation system used to measure language proficiency. The STEP test is a standardized test to measure the level of proficiency in the English language, an abbreviation for the phrase “Standardized Test of English Proficiency”.

The STEP test is one of the most widely recognized tests in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
STEP test sections

Step scores range between 0 and 100, and express the student’s level of English according to international standards.
The test is divided into four sections:

Reading Comprehension

This section includes questions about understanding texts written in English, and represents 40% of the test. It consists of 40 questions and takes 75 minutes to answer.
The questions in this section vary between questions that require understanding the general meaning of the text, questions that require understanding fine details, and questions that require extracting information from the text.

Syntactic structures

This section includes questions about English grammar, and represents 30% of the test. It consists of 30 questions and takes 45 minutes to answer.
The questions in this section vary between questions that require an understanding of basic grammar rules, and questions that require an understanding of advanced grammar rules.

Listening comprehension

This section includes questions about understanding sentences and dialogues spoken in English, and represents 20% of the test. It consists of 20 questions and takes 30 minutes to answer.
The questions in this section vary between questions that require understanding the general meaning of sentences and dialogues, questions that require understanding fine details, and questions that require extracting information from sentences and dialogues.

Written analysis

This section includes questions about writing paragraphs and sentences in the English language. It represents 10% of the test, consists of 10 questions, and takes 30 minutes to answer.
The questions in this section vary between questions that require writing a paragraph in English, and questions that require writing a sentence. In English.
Step scores show the student's level in each section separately, in addition to a total score calculated based on the sum of the scores for each section.

Step scores express the student's level in six linguistic levels:

Level Step Grades
Foundation level (A1) 0-30 grades
Beginner level (A2) 31-45 degrees
Intermediate level (B1) 46-60 degrees
Above average level (B2) 61-75 degrees
Advanced level (C1) 76-90 degrees
Proficient level (C2) 91-100 degrees

Each language level shows different abilities and competencies of the student in the English language.
Information of interest to you: To obtain optimal step scores, you should focus on each section with poise and prepare for it seriously.

Rules for passing the STEP test

When preparing for an English test, you should be aware of the basic rules that you need to consider.

Here are some rules to keep in mind when preparing for optimal step scores:

● Prepositions and pronouns: These are basics in the English language and must be known well to obtain the desired grades of stipe.
● Uses of words that are used to connect sentences: These words play an important role in making sentences coherent and coordinated.
● Tenses and grammar: To achieve optimal step scores, you should have a good understanding of tenses and how to use them correctly.
● Punctuation: Using them correctly reflects a deep understanding of the language and can help improve step scores.
● Comparative words and adjectives: These words help describe things and matters accurately.

How to improve your score on the STEP test

The STEP test opens many doors for you in education and work. Therefore, you should strive to achieve the highest possible score in this test.
In order to do that, you can follow some of the following tips and instructions:

Prepare well for the exam

Do not leave studying until the last minute, but start preparing early and regularly.
Determine a study plan that suits your time and level, and stick to it.
Use reliable and diverse sources to practice the questions and skills required in the test.
Read the terms and rules of the test: Before you take the exam, make sure that you know well the terms and rules of the test; Such as: time, method of solving it, and the identification documents that you need to bring.

Focus on your weaknesses

After you test yourself on some questions, try to identify your weak points in the English language, whether they are in vocabulary, structures, grammar, listening or reading comprehension, or written analysis.
Then find ways to improve it; Such as: memorizing a list of important words, reviewing basic grammar, watching videos, listening to conversations in English, or reading different texts.

Practice regularly

It is not enough to study just once, but you must train yourself regularly on the questions and skills required in the exam.
The more you practice, the higher your score.
Try to allocate time daily to study, and do not give in to boredom or frustration.
Make training fun and useful by diversifying the resources, activities, and challenges.
Pay attention to details: On the day of the exam, be careful and focus on every detail in the questions and answers.
Read the questions carefully and understand them well before answering them.
Choose the best answer, not the first one that comes to mind.
Avoid spelling, grammatical, and syntactic errors in the written expression question.
Calculate your time wisely and do not waste it on one question. Review your answers before submitting them.

What is the benefit of the Step test?

There are several reasons why getting Step scores is important: Enrollment in universities
Many universities require high Step scores as part of their admission requirements, because these scores reflect the student's level of English.

Exemption from language courses

Students who achieve high Step scores may be exempted from some English language training courses, saving them time and effort.

University department requirements

Some university departments may require a certain level of English, and high STEP scores are considered a qualification to achieve this level.

Submitting job applications

Some companies require STEP scores as part of their hiring requirements, especially if the job requires the use of English.

Registration dates for the STEP test

Registering for the STEP test is an essential step for anyone who wants to measure their level of English. Therefore, it is necessary to know the registration dates and adhere to them:
● Applicants can register for the STEP test at any time during the year.
● It is necessary to book at least 72 hours before the test day.
This guarantees applicants a place in the test and enables them to achieve the desired step scores.
● It is always a good idea to register early and start preparing for the test to ensure optimal step scores.

Cost and payment methods for the STEP test

When thinking about registering for the STEP test, you may have questions about the cost and how to pay.
STEP scores are an investment in your future, but it is good to know how you can pay for the test:
Cost
The STEP test fees are reasonable compared to the value you get from the test.
Obtaining optimal STEP scores can open many doors for you in the educational and career fields.
The cost of the STEP test varies depending on the entity that evaluates the test.
For example, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the cost of the test is about one hundred and fifty riyals and is conducted through the National Center for Measurement.

Payment methods

There are many ways available to pay the test fee; Such as: credit cards or bank transfer.
You should make sure to choose the method that is appropriate for you.

Early registration

Sometimes, there may be discounts for those who register early, this helps you save some money.
Before paying, make sure to review all the details and check that you have chosen the right time and place for the test.
What is the required score on the STEP test? The required score in the STEP test varies depending on the entity requesting it.
In general, there is no passing or failing score in the STEP test, but the applicant receives a score from 0 to 100 that expresses his level of English.
The applicant also receives a certificate Its level is determined from A1 to C21.
However, some authorities may specify a specific score as a condition for admission or qualification.
For example, some military colleges in Saudi Arabia set a minimum score of 75% on the STEP test.
Some educational and scholarship programs also set different degrees depending on the required level. Therefore, the applicant must ensure the requirements of the entity to which he wishes to apply.
Who can take the STEP test? Individuals can take the STEP test from the third year of secondary school onwards.

How often should the STEP test be performed?

Individuals are allowed to take the test up to five times within a three-year period.
If they want to take the test a sixth time, they must wait three years from the date of the first test.
What are the official documents required to take the STEP test? An official document such as a driver's license, passport, or ID card must be presented to register for the STEP test.

What is the validity of the STEP test results?

STEP test results are valid for three years from the date the test was taken.
STEP test results After taking the test, it is corrected and its results are sent to the relevant educational or job authorities within a period not exceeding three weeks.
This work is done entirely electronically during that period
In conclusion, STEP scores are more than just a test score, but rather an indicator of the level of the English language and may be a gateway to many educational and career opportunities.