The International ESOL Diploma (9992) is a combination of City & Guilds International ESOL (8984) and International Spoken ESOL (8985). The qualification assesses all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing.

The diploma can be taken at six levels and was developed from the Common European Framework (CEF).

Assessment is covered by taking two papers:

• International Spoken ESOL (8985) which assesses real speaking ability through a one to one structured interview
• International ESOL (8984) - a single exam paper which covers listening, reading and writing.

The testing is on demand, so a candidate and centre can choose their own dates.

Levels and recognition

There are six levels linked to the Common European Framework (CEF). The upper levels, Expert and Mastery, are recognised by many English speaking universities as evidence of language proficiency for entry purposes. Have a look at  who recognises our International ESOL and SESOL Qualifications. You can also browse our recognitions search page for information about other qualifications.

The Diploma is also approved by the UK's Border Agency as evidence of English proficiency for skilled and highly skilled migrants wishing to work or live in the UK. To find out more please visit the dedicated section on the Home Office website.

What is new about the International ESOL Diploma?

The change is the new procedure for gaining the Diploma qualification.

You must register candidates for the Diploma (9992) first (it's free!).

Next register the candidate for International ESOL (8984) and International Spoken ESOL (8985), paying a fee for each.

You need to register for all three qualifications with the same enrolment number.

When you receive the candidate's results for both 8984 and 8985, you should log onto Walled Garden and enter the overall grading module to trigger the Diploma certificate.

For more information about the individual parts of the exam and support materials available look here:
International ESOL
International Spoken ESOL

Visit our fantastic new City & Guilds English website - www.cityandguildsenglish.com

The website contains information, classroom activities, sample writing tasks, tips for teachers & students and much more for all our English language exams; General English, Business English & Young Learner examinations. All materials are free to download and all help support teachers and candidates learn English and prepare for City & Guilds' English language exams.