Frequently Asked Questions about the MELAB

If you are unable to find the answer to your question below, please check our general FAQ.

How often can I take the MELAB?

You must wait a calendar month between tests. For example, if you take the test in June, you must wait until August or later to take the MELAB again. You may take the MELAB a maximum of six times in any consecutive twelve-month period.

I'm looking for practice materials for the MELAB. Where should I go?

Visit the support materials section of our MELAB resources section for currently available MELAB sample materials.

What is the content of the MELAB?

The content of the test is aimed toward the level of English a student might encounter in an American university setting. On the listening test, speakers use standard American English at a normal rate of delivery. Grammar items focus on control of forms and structures of English that people might use when talking with each other. Vocabulary words tested are those frequently encountered in written sources. Reading comprehension passages—on a variety of subjects—are taken from books and magazines. Find out more in the MELAB format section.

Can I take the optional MELAB speaking test by itself?

No, the speaking test may not be taken separately. You may take the speaking test only in conjunction with the MELAB examination. Speaking test scores are reported only if you took the speaking test during your most recent MELAB examination. In other words, you cannot carry a previous speaking test score over to a more recent MELAB score report.

Who scores the MELAB speaking test?

The MELAB speaking test is administered by well-qualified, carefully trained, and regularly monitored examiners using CaMLA training materials. View Speaking Test Examiner Qualifications (PDF).

How long does it take to get my MELAB scores?

Total turnaround time, from the time MELAB test papers are received at CaMLA until the time you receive your results, will be 4 to 6 weeks. Rush service is available for the reporting of scores. Read more about this in the MELAB results section.

Where are my MELAB scores reported?

You will automatically receive one unofficial copy of your MELAB score report, issued by the test center where your MELAB was administered. Official MELAB score reports will be sent to up to two universities or institutions that you listed at the bottom of the Official MELAB Identification Form (PDF) before taking the test. Find out more information on score reporting in the MELAB results.

What is a MELAB Score Report?

Score reports include scores of performance on the different parts of the MELAB. Scores on parts 1, 2, and 3 are averaged to produce a MELAB final score. If the test taker took the optional speaking test, the speaking score is also shown on the score report. MELAB reports also include brief biographical information, the test date, and test location. No special test certificate is awarded.

How long are my MELAB scores valid?

MELAB test scores are valid for two years from the administration date, and no score reports can be issued for tests taken more than two years from the test date.

What is a passing MELAB score?

There is no official passing score on the MELAB, although different institutions and organizations that accept MELAB scores may require certain minimum scores for their purposes. View the MELAB results section for more information on scoring.