Authentic communicative skills for real life
GESE exams are for people of all ages who want to develop communicative English language speaking and listening skills for use in real life - whatever the purpose, whether for immigration, work, study, leisure or employment.
Genuine discussion format
GESE exams are one-to-one assessments of English language speaking and listening skills with a Trinity examiner, who encourages the candidate to show what they can do through prompts and authentic interactive dialogue. The exam length is 5-25 minutes depending on the grade.
Focus on building confidence
Because candidates can plan ahead to discuss their own interests and opinions in the exam, this motivates learning and aids natural speech - which helps them to relax and perform at their best during the exam.
Mapped to the CEFR*
GESE is available at 12 levels: Grades 1-12 (pre-A1-C2 CEFR levels).
Grouped by development stage, GESE exams offer a progressive framework for the development of English language skills and an assessment for every learner.
*CEFR = Common European Framework of Reference for languages
Guidance and resources
GESE is designed to support classroom teaching and maps easily to general English language curricula and coursework and Trinity provides a wide range of guidance, videos, support and resources for each level.
Online exams via video conference
Registered centres have the option to book GESE one-to-one assessments as Online sessions in centres via video conference.
Learning progression
For people requiring English language reading and writing skills qualifications in addition to speaking and listening skills, Trinity also offers Integrated Skills in English (ISE) qualifications which are ideal for people seeking to develop transferable skills required for academic study and employability.
Reliable evidence of skills
Trinity's GESE qualifications provide individuals and institutions with reliable evidence of English language speaking skills at different levels from beginner to advanced. Our GESE exams are regulated by Ofqual in the UK. They are listed on the UK's Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) and are aligned with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF).
Trinity's GESE A1-C2 exams have been awarded the ALTE Q-mark by the Association of Language Testers in Europe demonstrating that they meet strictest of quality criteria.
“The way the examiners engage
with the candidates is perfect -
they are invited to discuss and
enjoy the conversation.”
with the candidates is perfect -
they are invited to discuss and
enjoy the conversation.”
