Linking an English Proficiency Test to the CEFR: Setting Valid Cut Scores

Abstract

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is widely used as a reference in EFL English education, and therefore linking English proficiency tests to the CEFR is imperative if test scores are interpreted according to the CEFR levels. This study aimed to align a FRELE-TH-based test, an English proficiency test developed by Chiang Mai Rajabhat University in Thailand, with the CEFR using the Yes/No Angoff method to derive cut scores. The participants were nine university English lecturers purposively selected as judges. These judges made three rounds of consideration regarding the possibility that a borderline test-taker of each CEFR level would correctly answer the test questions. Their judgments, 1 for ‘Yes’ and 0 for ‘No’, were then calculated for the cut scores for A1, A2, B1, B2 and C1 which were 22, 36, 57, 80 and 105, respectively. The test scores can now be interpreted in relation to the CEFR, and this meaningful interpretation is useful for further enhancement of students’ English abilities. For further study, triangulation of data using a different but appropriate standard setting method should be undertaken to increase validity of the derived cut scores.