iTEP Administrator Guide 02NOV17

iTEP GUIDE
ADMINISTRATOR WORKBOOK
Ó 2017 iTEP International, LLC

2 | ...iTEP Administrator Workbook
Thank you for being a part of the iTEP family!
Included in this packet is comprehensive information for anyone who will be administering iTEP.
If you have any questions about what is included in this packet, please reach out to iTEP directly
by phone or email.
Contact Us:
818-887-3888 info@iTEPinternational.com
8:00 to 17:00 Pacific Any time, please allow 24 hours for response
iTEP is available to discuss any of your English testing needs. Please feel free to contact us using
the information above with any questions, suggestions, or to place orders.
Ó 2017 iTEP International, LLC.

iTEP Administrator Workbook|...3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. iTEP Technical Specifications ........................................................................................... 4
1.1. Minimum Technical Requirements ............................................................................................. 4
1.2. Windows Setup Instructions ....................................................................................................... 5
1.2.1. Running iTEP on Windows using Internet Explorer Kiosk Mode ........................................ 5
1.2.2. Running iTEP on Windows using Chrome Kiosk Mode ....................................................... 6
1.2.3. Running iTEP on Windows in Browser Mode ..................................................................... 7
1.3. Mac Setup Instructions ............................................................................................................... 8
1.4. Chromebook Setup Instructions ................................................................................................. 9
2. iTEP Administration Instructions ....................................................................................10
2.1. Windows Administration Instructions ...................................................................................... 10
2.2. Mac Administration Instructions .............................................................................................. 11
2.3. Chromebook Administration Instructions................................................................................. 12
2.4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about iTEP Testing ........................................................... 13
2.5. Troubleshooting Measures for iTEP Testing ............................................................................. 14
3. iTEP Online Systems .......................................................................................................15
3.1. Use of myTEP Administrative Accounts .................................................................................... 15
3.2. Tests Available .......................................................................................................................... 16
3.3. Tests Administered ................................................................................................................... 17
3.4. View Graded Tests .................................................................................................................... 18
3.5. Additional myTEP Account Features ......................................................................................... 19
3.5.1. User Information .............................................................................................................. 19
3.5.2. Retrieve Archived Test Results ......................................................................................... 19
3.5.3. Grade Tests....................................................................................................................... 19
4. Testing Best Practices ....................................................................................................20
4.1. Mail-Merge and Notepaper Organization ................................................................................. 20
4.2. Proctor Quick Reference Guide ................................................................................................ 21
5. iTEP Product Information ...............................................................................................22
5.1. Uses of iTEP ............................................................................................................................... 22
5.2. iTEP General Testing Structure and Method............................................................................. 23
5.2.1. Delivery Method ............................................................................................................... 23
5.2.2. Examinee Experience ....................................................................................................... 23
5.3. iTEP Academic (Post-Secondary Level Testing) Test Content ................................................... 24
5.4. iTEP SLATE (Secondary Level Testing) Content ......................................................................... 25
5.5. iTEP Placement (Fixed-Form Single-Use Testing) Content ........................................................ 26
5.6. iTEP Scoring System .................................................................................................................. 27
5.7. iTEP Exam Development ........................................................................................................... 27
5.8. iTEP Validity and Reliability Overview ....................................................................................... 28
5.8.1. Reliability .......................................................................................................................... 28
5.8.2. Internal Consistency Reliability ........................................................................................ 28
5.8.3. Test-Retest Reliability ....................................................................................................... 29

1. iTEP TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

1.1. Minimum Technical Requirements
In order to administer the Internet-based iTEP exam successfully, your system’s Internet
connectivity, hardware, and software must conform to the following minimum specifications:
Internet
Broadband Internet connection:
o Download speed – 750 kbps minimum
o Upload speed – 250 kbps minimum
NOTE: To see if your computer meets the Technical Requirements, go to:

https://www.besexam.com/test
Hardware
• Operating System: Windows 7 or newer, Mac OS X, or ChromeBook
• Headset, keyboard, mouse
o Microphone if using “Plus” tests
o Webcam for added security
Software
Adobe Flash Player version 10.0 or higher (required for Internet Explorer)
• Verify your Flash installation here: http://www.adobe.com/products/flash/about/
• Download Flash Player here: http://www.adobe.com/go/getflash/
• Please note: Flash is not required for Chrome, Firefox, or Safari browsers.
Any of the following browsers are recommended:

• Microsoft Internet Explorer browser (version 10 or higher) (PC ONLY) (requires Flash)
o Download IE here: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/winfamily/ie/
• Google Chrome browser (latest version) (PC or Mac or Chromebook) (no Flash required)
o Download Chrome here: https://www.google.com/intl/en/chrome/browser/
• Mozilla Firefox browser (latest version) (PC or Mac) (no Flash required)
o Download Firefox here: http://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/new/
• Safari browser (latest version) (Mac ONLY) (no Flash required)
o Built into Mac computers

1.2. Windows Setup Instructions

1.2.1. Running iTEP on Windows using Internet Explorer Kiosk Mode
A. The desktop icon for iTEP IE will run the test in this secure mode that helps prevent
access to other screens and programs on your computer. You will need to connect a
headset and microphone to the computer. Tests outside of kiosk mode will not be
considered secure and may be invalidated by iTEP International.
B. If Flash is not already installed on your computer, download the Flash software from the
following link: http://www.adobe.com/go/getflash/
C. You must download the iTEP IE desktop icon on each computer that will be used for the
test (this only needs to be done once per computer). To download the icon, navigate to
the following URL in your browser’s address bar:
https://www.besexam.com/download.php
Open the web page and follow the on-screen instructions to download the icon.
D. The iTEP IE icon is labeled “Begin iTEP IE” and will automatically appear on your desktop.
See the image below. Now that the iTEP icon is installed, double-click the icon to display
the welcome screen, and then click on the “Click to begin” button to start the Technical
Checklist.
E. As the Technical Checklist is running, you will see a box appear asking you to "Allow" or
"Deny" the Flash software. Click “Allow” AND “Remember”. Once this step has been
completed on a computer, you will not need to repeat it again, as the computer will
remember the setting.
F. The amount of time to transmit the data to our server can take longer than expected.
Please inform test-takers that they should be patient while the data uploads.
G. You can remove the iTEP IE software from Start | Programs | iTEP IE | Uninstall iTEP IE.

1.2.2. Running iTEP on Windows using Chrome Kiosk Mode
A. The desktop icon for iTEP Chrome will run the test in this secure mode that helps prevent
access to other screens and programs on your computer. You will need to connect a
headset and microphone to the computer. Tests run outside of kiosk mode will not be
considered secure and may be invalidated by iTEP International. Chrome has built-in
software to record audio.
B. You must download the iTEP Chrome desktop icon on each computer that will be used
for the test (this only needs to be done once per computer). To download the icon,
navigate to the following URL in your browser’s address bar:
https://www.besexam.com/download.php
Open the web page and follow the on-screen instructions to download the icon.
C. The iTEP Chrome icon is labeled “Begin iTEP Chrome” and will automatically appear on
your desktop. See the image below. Now that the iTEP icon is installed, double-click the
icon to display the welcome screen, and then click on the “Click to begin” button to start
the Technical Checklist.
D. As the Technical Checklist is running, you will see a box appear asking you to "Allow" or
"Block" access to your microphone and camera. Click “Allow” in each case. Once this step
has been completed on a computer, you will not need to repeat it again, as the computer
will remember the setting.
E. The amount of time to transmit the data to our server can take longer than expected.
F. You can remove the iTEP Chrome software from Start | Programs | iTEP Chrome |
Uninstall iTEP Chrome.

1.2.3. Running iTEP on Windows in Browser Mode
A. iTEP testing in Browser Mode allows test administration without any download. You will
need to connect a headset and microphone to the computer. Browser Mode testing may
be completed in the browsers listed on page 4. Tests run in Browser Mode will not be
considered secure and may be invalidated by iTEP International.
All Browsers except Chrome and Firefox

B. If Flash is not already installed on your computer, download the Flash software from the
following link: http://www.adobe.com/go/getflash/
C. Go to the following website to access the test:

Click on “Click to Begin” to begin going through the Technical Checklist.
D. As the Technical Checklist is running, you will see a box appear asking you to "Allow" or
"Deny" the Flash software. Click “Allow” AND “Remember”. Once this step has been
completed on a computer, you will not need to repeat it again, as the computer will
remember the setting.
Chrome and Firefox instructions

E. Go to the following website to access the test:
Click on “Click to Begin” to begin going through the Technical Checklist
F. As the Technical Checklist is running, you will see a box appear asking you to "Allow" or
All Browsers
G. The amount of time to transmit the data to our server can take longer than expected.

1.3. Mac Setup Instructions

considered secure and may be invalidated by iTEP International. It is recommended to
use Windows for secure testing.
Safari instructions
A. Go to the following website to access the test: https://www.besexam.com/test
B. Click Safari at the top left of your browser and select “Settings for this website...”. Change
the Auto-Play setting to “Allow All Auto-Play”, change the Camera and Microphone
settings to “Allow”.
C. Click on “Click to Begin” to begin going through the Technical Checklist.
Chrome and Firefox instructions

D. Go to the following website to access the test: https://www.besexam.com/test
E. As the Technical Checklist is running, you will see a box appear asking you to "Allow" or
All Browsers
F. The amount of time to transmit the data to our server can take longer than expected.

1.4. Chromebook Setup Instructions

considered secure and may be invalidated by iTEP International. It is recommended to
use Windows for secure testing.
B. Go to the following website to access the test:

C. As the Technical Checklist is running, you will see a box appear asking you to "Allow" or
D. The amount of time to transmit the data to our server can take longer than expected.

2. iTEP ADMINISTRATION INSTRUCTIONS

2.1. Windows Administration Instructions
A. Make sure you have the needed Test IDs and Passwords for the administration. These
should be requested from iTEP International in advance of any test administrations.
You can also verify if there are any available test IDs on the admin login panel (guide on
page 16).
B. Depending on the setup you followed in section 1, please select your instructions:
You will find the iTEP icon that Follow setup instructions in section 1.2.3
was downloaded during setup for Browser Mode. Then follow the on-
on your desktop labeled either screen instructions for the “Technical
Begin iTEP IE or Begin iTEP Checklist” on your computer to make
Chrome. Double-click the iTEP sure your computer has the proper tools
desktop icon to launch the test. and access essential for iTEP to function
Follow the on-screen instructions OR properly. In the case of Internet
for the “Technical Checklist”. Explorer, make sure the latest version of
Flash is installed on your computer. If
there are any problems with the
technical checklist, please refer to the
FAQs and Troubleshooting procedures
on pages 13 & 14.
C. Once you have successfully completed the “Technical Checklist”, click “Next” to view the
Login screen where you can input your Test ID Number and Password.
Please Note: If you are taking this test simply to get familiar with iTEP (i.e., a sample test
and not an actual test administration), it is not necessary to complete all of the
information on the registration screen. Please include your first and last name and your
e-mail address, and you can put random letters or numbers in the other fields. However,
there must be some data in each required field.
D. When you reach the “End of Test” screen in kiosk mode, exit by pressing the code
CTRL+ALT+W. You may exit the test in Browser Mode by closing the tab or window.
*Please note that only Test Center Administrators or Proctors should have this code.
Students should not be given the code, as they should not be the ones exiting the test.
Please review the iTEP Technical FAQs and Troubleshooting on pages 13 & 14 for help with any
technical questions you may have.

2.2. Mac Administration Instructions

should be requested from iTEP International in advance of any test administrations. You
can also verify if there are any available test IDs on the admin login panel (guide on page
16).

C. Follow the on-screen instructions for the “Technical Checklist” on your computer to make
sure your computer has the proper tools and access essential for iTEP to function
properly. If there are any problems with the technical checklist, please refer to the FAQs
and Troubleshooting procedures on pages 13 & 14.
D. Once you have successfully completed the “Technical Checklist”, click “Next” to view the
Login screen where the student can input the Test ID Number and Password.
there must be some data in each field.

2.3. Chromebook Administration Instructions

should be requested from iTEP International in advance of any test administrations. You
can also verify if there are any available test IDs on the admin login panel (guide on page
16).

C. Follow the on-screen instructions for the “Technical Checklist. If there are any problems
with the technical checklist, please refer to the FAQs and Troubleshooting procedures on
pages 13 & 14.
D. Once you have successfully completed the “Technical Checklist”, click “Next” to view the
Login screen where the student can input the Test ID Number and Password.
there must be some data in each field.

2.4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about iTEP Testing

I am in the middle of taking my exam and the power goes out. What do I do?
iTEP tests are designed in a way that every time you finish a section, the section will be saved
automatically. So, if you experience any power outages and your computer shuts down, you can
restart your computer, launch iTEP again, and enter the same Test ID and Password. This will take
you through the iTEP Recovery Procedure. It will take you to a screen that shows the name of
the test-taker, along with the test ID number. Click “Yes” if the information listed is correct. The
next page will list the incomplete test sections and if you are ready to start, click “Next” to
proceed. If one of the incomplete test sections is not listed, please call iTEP International (818-
887-3888) or call our technical help line (866-825-1894) to have that section reset.
I recovered my test after a power outage but the section I was working on
during the power outage was skipped. How can I go back to this section?
It can happen that a test may skip a section and/or may run into other technical errors. If you
experience any errors, we can reset various sections of the test for a retake. Please call iTEP
International (818-887-3888) or call our technical help line (866-825-1894).
My system becomes unresponsive, the application freezes. What can I do?

If your system locks up, freezes, or shuts down, you will need to follow the iTEP Recovery
Procedure by exiting the exam, restarting the computer, and/or clearing your iTEP browser’s
cache. Please contact iTEP International or the technical help line to reset any sections of the
exam that were skipped due to the Recovery Procedure.
I can’t hear anything. What might be the problem?

The key to having a great testing experience relies on successfully executing the Technical
Checklist. The iTEP application will only use the general settings on your system. If you are able
to run iTunes or other sound-related applications or websites, iTEP will work as well. Please verify
that your volume is turned up. On rare occasions, the computers’ sound card settings may need
to be adjusted. If the troubleshooting instructions on the next page don’t solve the problem,
please contact iTEP International directly (818-887-3888).

2.5. Troubleshooting Measures for iTEP Testing

If the Technical FAQs (on page 13) have not solved the issues you are encountering, please follow
the steps below to troubleshoot the issue.
Ø Restart the iTEP Program – exit iTEP and re-enter the test ID and password. The Test
Recovery Procedure will begin from there.
Ø Restart the computer – if restarting the iTEP program does not solve the issue, the
computer may be caching a problem in its memory. A restart will likely clear any caching.
Ø Clear your iTEP browser’s cache – similar to restarting the computer, clearing the cache
on your iTEP testing browser will prevent any cached files from causing the issue.
Ø Uninstall and reinstall Flash (then restart the computer) – iTEP uses Adobe Flash for
recording audio in the Internet Explorer browser. Occasionally, Flash updates interfere
with the running of the exam, but the problem can be resolved when the computer is
restarted after an update, but before starting iTEP again.
Ø Uninstall and reinstall iTEP icon (Windows) – in case the iTEP icon is not connecting to
iTEP via the internet, remove the iTEP icon and “reinstall” it to make sure the latest
information is available to your computer. As with any new software, it is highly
recommended to restart the computer after this procedure. See page 5 or 6 for how to
remove the icon.
Usually one of the first 3 steps of troubleshooting resolve the issue. If you proceed through each
of the steps above and still cannot resolve your technical issue, please send a troubleshooting
report to iTEP International. In an email, please send the following information:
Ø Describe what happened leading up to the technical issue.

Ø List what steps (above) that you have taken so far to troubleshoot the problem.
Ø Provide the Test ID(s) affected and test-taker(s) name(s).
Ø Provide information on the default browser used and version of Flash installed.
Ø List the page of the iTEP test on which the error first occurred.
Ø Describe what happened on that page. A screenshot of the problem is very helpful.
Contact Us:
Please provide the above information to your representative at iTEP by email and follow-up with
the office by phone for time-sensitive assistance.
818-887-3888 info@iTEPonline.com

3. iTEP ONLINE SYSTEMS

3.1. Use of myTEP Administrative Accounts
iTEP provides testing institutions with access to an administrative panel that supplements the
iTEP experience. The following procedures will allow you access to this panel.
A. Please access the “iTEP Local Admin Panel” by going to the following link:
https://www.besexam.com/login.php
B. Enter your unique Username and Password and press the “Submit” button Your iTEP
representative can provide you with this Username and Password upon request.
C. Upon logging in, you will be taken to the iTEP Admin Panel Local Administrator Homepage.
On this screen, you will be able to select the appropriate pages/functions by clicking on
one of the six images on that page.

3.2. Tests Available

This page shows all of the Test ID Numbers, Passwords, and Test Versions that you have available
in your inventory and that are ready to be administered. The following is a description of each
column’s function, starting from the left.
A. Date Purchased: Displays the date of each purchase made.
B. Test ID #s, Passwords, and Versions: Displays the Test ID Numbers, Passwords, and the
test Version for each test in your inventory that is ready to be administered. The
“Assigned To” column indicates if the ID has been administered by a partner (if
applicable).
C. Tests Available (Version and Total columns): Displays the total number of each test
version, and the total number of tests available in your inventory
D. Print Test ID Numbers and Passwords: By selecting the check box(es) next to the Version
and clicking the “Print Test ID Numbers and Passwords” button, a page will open that will
allow you to print the list of Test ID Numbers, Passwords, and Versions that you selected.
E. Email Test ID Numbers and Passwords Button: By selecting the check box(es) next to the
Version and clicking the “Email Test ID Numbers and Passwords” button, a page will open
that will allow you to email the list of Test ID Numbers, Passwords, and Versions that you
selected.
F. To access the list of available tests in CSV format, click on the “Get Available Test CSV”
link at the top of the table. This will take you to another page prompting you that the CSV
file has been created. Upon clicking the “here” link in the middle of the page, you will be
prompted to choose where on your computer you’d like to save the CSV file.
G. Assign Tests: This function is deactivated for most programs, but it can be used to assign
the selected test IDs to partner institutions administering iTEP.

3.3. Tests Administered

You can access all tests administered in your organization from this page. Tests can even be
viewed here if they have not been graded yet. The following is a description of each function on
this page, starting from the left.
A. Date Purchased: Displays the date of each purchase made. Clicking on this heading allows
you to sort the list using this category.
B. Date Administered: Displays when the test was administered. Clicking on this heading
allows you to sort the list using this category.
C. Candidate Name: Displays the last name, first name, and middle name of each test-taker.
Clicking on this heading allows you to sort the list using this category.
D. Test ID #: Displays the Test ID Number for the test administered.
E. Version: Indicates which version and the type of test administered.
F. Form: Displays the test form that was used for a particular test.
G. # of Total Tests Administered Y-T-D: Shows the number of tests of each version and the
total number of tests administered by your organization Year-To-Date.
H. View Grades & Reg. Info and Writing & Speaking Answer: By clicking the “view” link in
each of these columns, you’ll be able to view the grade and registration information for
each test-taker as well as his/her writing and speaking submissions.
I. You can access the list of administered tests with registration information and grades in
spreadsheet format by clicking on the “Get CSV” link at the top of the table. This will take
you to another page where clicking the “here” link in the middle of the page, you will be
prompted to choose where on your computer you’d like to save the CSV file.

3.4. View Graded Tests

Here you can access a list of tests that have been graded. Core tests appear on this list
immediately after the tests have been completed, while Plus tests will appear once their Writing
and Speaking sections have been graded (within 24 hours).
You can sort the tests by test date or version for ease of access. Below describes what can be
viewed once tests are sorted by checking one or more boxes under a single column. You must
click the column heading to access the results.
A. View Grade and Profile: You’ll be taken to a page where you can see test-takers’ grades
and registration information.
B. View and Print Score Report: A pop-up window will appear with the score reports for all
the tests selected in PDF form. You can print the score report(s) by clicking on File | Print.
C. Email Score Report: This will take you to a page where you can enter the email address
of the party to whom you’d like to send the selected score report(s).
D. Email Test Takers: This function will automatically email the scores and score reports to
the selected test-takers, using the emails they provided during registration.
E. View Skill Levels: This feature can compile all test-taker data to create trend charts. The
student scores are spread across the CEFR (Common European Framework) levels. Please
ask your iTEP representative if you have any questions about the results appearing in
these charts.
F. Archive Test: This will remove the test(s) from the “Graded Tests” screen and store them
in the archive. You can retrieve archived tests by means of the “Retrieve Archived Test
Results” icon on the main admin screen.

3.5. Additional myTEP Account Features

3.5.1. User Information
This page includes the names and information of specific individuals that have the ability to
access the Local Administrator Panel. You can access the list of these individuals in your
organization by clicking the “Users” button on the homepage. You may edit your own individual
contact and log-in information. Please contact your iTEP Representative to add, remove, or
change any other login information.
3.5.2. Retrieve Archived Test Results
To access the results of your archived tests, click on the “Retrieve Archived Test Results” link and
follow the on-screen instructions. To see all administered and archived tests, you may simply
leave all the fields blank and click the “Find” button.
3.5.3. Grade Tests
This page is disabled for most clients. This allows institutions, who wish to use their own staff to
grade tests, to enter the writing and speaking information into the system for easy tracking and
archiving. Ask your iTEP representatives if you have questions about this testing model.
Please contact your iTEP representative with any questions about the functionality of the myTEP
administrative online panel.
Contact Us:

4. TESTING BEST PRACTICES

4.1. Mail-Merge and Notepaper Organization
When administering iTEP, it is important to ensure that each ID is only allocated to one test-taker.
Methods vary in how administrators organize the IDs, from printing out the list of available IDs
and crossing them out one-by-one when used, to using the CSV function to pre-assign IDs to test-
takers and only using unassigned IDs for new test-takers. Below is a description of the Mail-Merge
and Notepaper method that can simplify the allocation of test IDs to large administrations.
Creating the Mail-Merge Notepaper Document

Most word processors have a “mail merge” function that allows you to create a generic template
of a document that will fill certain fields with information generated from a spreadsheet. With
iTEP’s CSV function, you can generate a notepaper document that pre-fills the test ID and other
important fields so that test-takers and administrators do not need to worry about it during
registration. Below is an example template:
iTEP Note Paper
(Please leave this with the test administrator when you exit the test)
1. Go to besexam.com/test
2. Complete technical checklist
3. Enter Test ID: <<Test ID>> Password: <<Password>>
4. Enter registration information:
Last (Family) Name:
First Name:
Date of Birth: using Month/Day/Year, Ex. September 19, 1990
Email:
Gender:
Nationality:
Passport or School Identification Number:
Native language (Your 1st Language): _____________
Level:

4.2. Proctor Quick Reference Guide

Test Administration Procedures
Prior to test day:
Ø Get Test ID and Password from iTEP International (at least 2 business days in advance).
Bring printed Mail-Merge Notepapers if available.
Ø If test IDs were previously ordered, check the “Tests Available” section of the admin panel
for any available test IDs (page 16 of iTEP Administrator Workbook).
On test day, prior to arrival of test-taker:

Ø Have a headset with a microphone for each test-taker and confirm that it is working.
Ø Go through the Technical Checklist on each computer before the test-taker arrives to
ensure all programs are up-to-date.
Ø After successful completion of the Technical Checklist, leave the Candidate Login page
displayed on the computer for the test-taker.
Upon arrival of test-taker:

Ø Once the test is started, ensure that the same test ID and password are not used again by
another test-taker.
Ø Watch over test-taker during exam to ensure no cheating, talking, or using of electronic
devices. They may take notes.
Test Reset Procedures

Ø If you experience technical problems and need to have a section of the exam reset, please
call iTEP offices (818-887-3888) or email your iTEP representative. Typical iTEP hours of
availability are 8am to 6pm Pacific, M-F.
Ø If you are unable to reach iTEP International staff, you can call our Technical Support line
at +1-866-825-1894. Please note that the Technical Support line can only reset sections
of the exam; they do not provide any other technical support.
We recommend keeping a copy of this document where iTEP is being administered.

5. iTEP PRODUCT INFORMATION

5.1. Uses of iTEP
iTEP Academic is commonly used for:
Ø Making admissions decisions
Ø Placing students within language programs
Ø Guiding course instruction and curriculum development
Ø Evaluatng pre- and post-course progress
Ø Determining eligibility for scholarships
iTEP does not require any specialized academic or cultural knowledge, so it is well-suited for
testing in any academic discipline. The assessment evaluates examinees’ ability to apply their
English knowledge and skill to process, learn from, and respond appropriately to new information
that is presented in English.
iTEP was designed and developed to provide English language proficiency scores that are valid
for many types of educational decision-making. The developers of iTEP recognized that in order
to thoroughly evaluate English proficiency, the assessment needed to include items that
evaluated both written and spoken language, as well as the examinee’s grasp of English grammar.
In addition, iTEP developers made the distinction between receptive language skills (i.e., listening
and reading) and expressive language skills (i.e., writing and speaking).
When language proficiency is measured accurately, reliably, and comprehensively, educators or

administrators can use examinees’ scores on the assessment to make more rigorous, evidence-
based decisions. iTEP was developed with these goals in mind. Furthermore, iTEP uses the best
technology available and on-demand support to help ensure an engaging, user-friendly examinee
and administrator experience.
iTEP is recognized by the Academic Credentials Evaluation Institute (ACEI) as an approved

internationally regarded English proficiency exam that meets institutional standards. ACCET, the
U.S.-based Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training has determined that iTEP
satisfies the requirement of a nationally recognized English assessment exam to validate
Intensive English Program (IEP) curricula. In addition, iTEP International is committed to actively
engaging with the international education community through memberships with organizations
such as NAFSA, EnglishUSA, TABS, TESOL, ACEI, ACCET, and AISAP.

5.2. iTEP General Testing Structure and Method

5.2.1. Delivery Method
iTEP is administered via the Internet. Items are administered to examinees at random from a
larger item bank, according to programming logic and test development procedures that ensure
each examinee receives an overall examination of comparable content and difficulty to other
examinees. A static paper-and-pencil version of iTEP Core is also available.
The examinee inputs responses to the test in the following manner:

Ø During the Grammar, Listening, and Reading sections, the examinee selects from a list of
multiple-choice options for each question.
Ø Writing samples are keyboarded directly into a text entry field.
Ø Speaking samples are recorded with a headset and microphone at the examinee’s
computer.
5.2.2. Examinee Experience
Prior to the start of the test, the examinee logs in and completes a registration form. The system
guides the examinee through a series of steps to ensure technical compatibility and to prepare
him/her for the format of the assessment.
Each section/skill has a fixed time allotted to it. In the Grammar and Reading sections, examinees
can advance to the next section if there is time remaining, or they are free to use any extra time
to review and revise their answers. In the Listening section, the prompts each play only once and
once submitted, an item response cannot be reviewed or changed. In the Writing section, there
are fixed time limits for each part, but examinees may advance to the next section before time
expires. In the Speaking section, there are fixed time limits for each part and examinees cannot
advance until time expires.
The directions for each section are displayed for a set amount of time and are also read aloud.
The amount of time that instructions are displayed varies according to the amount of text to be
read. If an examinee needs more time to read a particular section’s directions, he or she can
access them by clicking the Help button, which displays a complete menu of directions for all test
sections.
Following each section of the test, examinees see a transition screen indicating which section will
be completed next. This transition screen provides a 15-second break between sections, and
displays a progress bar showing completed and remaining test sections. After the last test section
is completed, examinees see a final screen telling them the test is complete and to wait for
further directions from the administrator.

5.3. iTEP Academic (Post-Secondary Level Testing) Test Content

In each section, examinees will encounter content and questions targeted to varying levels of
proficiency.
I. Grammar (Structure) — 10 minutes/ two parts
Part 1. Thirteen fill-in-the-blank, multiple-choice questions testing the examinee’s

familiarity with a key feature of English structure; questions range from beginner to
advanced.
Part 2. Twelve multiple-choice questions where the examinee selects the part of speech
with incorrect English structure; questions range from elementary to advanced.
I. Listening — 20 minutes/ three parts
Part 1. Four high-beginning to low-intermediate level short conversations of two to three

sentences, each followed by one multiple-choice question.
Part 2. One two- to three-minute intermediate level conversation, followed by four
multiple-choice questions.
Part 3. One four-minute upper level lecture, followed by six multiple-choice questions.
II. Reading — 20 minutes/ two parts
Part 1. One intermediate level passage of about 250 words in length, followed by four
Part 2. One upper level paragraph of about 450 words in length, followed by six multiple-
choice questions.
III. Writing — 25 minutes/ two parts
Part 1. The examinee is given five minutes to write a 50- to 75-word note on a supplied
topic, geared to the low-intermediate level.
Part 2. The examinee is given 20 minutes to write a 175- to 225-word piece expressing
and supporting his or her opinion on an upper level written topic.
IV. Speaking — 5 minutes/ two parts (plus one-minute warm-up section)
Part 1. The examinee hears and reads a short question geared to low-intermediate level,
then has 30 seconds to prepare a spoken response and 45 seconds to speak.
Part 2. The examinee hears a brief upper level statement presenting two sides of an issue,
then is asked to express his or her thoughts on the topic, with 45 seconds to prepare and
60 seconds to speak.

5.4. iTEP SLATE (Secondary Level Testing) Content

proficiency.
I. Grammar (Structure) — 10 minutes/ two parts

advanced.
Part 2. Twelve multiple-choice questions where the examinee selects the part of speech
with incorrect English structure; questions range from elementary to advanced.
II. Listening — 20 minutes/ three parts
Part 1. Four high-beginning to low-intermediate level short conversations of two to three

sentences, each followed by one multiple-choice question.
Part 2. One two- to three-minute intermediate level conversation, followed by four
Part 3. One four-minute upper level lecture, followed by six multiple-choice questions.
III. Reading — 20 minutes/ three parts
Part 1. Two low-intermediate level passages of approximately 50 words in length,

followed by two multiple-choice questions.
Part 2. One intermediate-level passage of approximately 200 words in length, followed
by four multiple-choice questions.
Part 3. One low advanced passage of approximately 500 words in length, followed by six
IV. Writing — 25 minutes/ two parts
Part 1. The examinee is given five minutes to write a 50- to 75-word note on a supplied
topic, geared to the low-intermediate level.
Part 2. The examinee is given 20 minutes to write a 175- to 225-word piece expressing
and supporting his or her opinion on an upper-level written topic.
V. Speaking — 5 minutes/ two parts (plus one-minute warm-up section)
Part 1. The examinee hears and reads a short question geared to low-intermediate level,
then has 30 seconds to prepare a spoken response and 45 seconds to speak.
Part 2. The examinee hears a brief upper-level statement presenting two sides of an
issue, then is asked to express his or her thoughts on the topic, with 45 seconds to prepare
and 60 seconds to speak.

5.5. iTEP Placement (Fixed-Form Single-Use Testing) Content

proficiency. The iTEP Placement test is not timed by the system and should take about 45 minutes
to complete.
I. Grammar (Structure) — one part

advanced.
II. Listening — three parts
Part 1. Six high-beginning to low-intermediate level short conversations of two to three

sentences, each followed by some multiple-choice questions (ten total).
Part 2. One situational dialogue, followed by three multiple-choice questions.
Part 3. One three-minute lecture, followed by five multiple-choice questions.
III. Vocabulary – two parts
Part 1. Six questions to select the best word that completes the sentence.
Part 2. Four questions to select the closest synonym.
IV. Reading — three parts
Part 1. Four questions about a recipe.

Part 2. One low level passage of approximately 160 words in length, followed by four
Part 3. One upper level passage of approximately 450 words in length, followed by six
V. Optional Writing Prompt
Part 1. Institutions have the option to request the addition of a writing section, which
consists of a single writing prompt at the end of the test. The writing sample is not graded
by iTEP, but it will appear on the score report to allow teachers and staff to evaluate a
sample of the student’s writing.

5.6. iTEP Scoring System

iTEP computes an overall proficiency level from 0 to 6, as well as individual skill proficiency
levels from 0 to 6 for each skill. Linguistic sub-skill scores are also provided (e.g. parts of speech,
synthesis, main idea) in order to give a more detailed picture of the examinee’s level in the
Grammar, Listening, and Reading sections. The Overall score represents the combination of
scores across each skill. For greatest accuracy, Overall scores are reported to one decimal point
(e.g., 0.0, 0.1, 0.2, ... , 5.9, 6.0).
Each section is graded as follows:

Ø The Grammar, Listening, and Reading sections are scored automatically by the computer.
Each response is worth one point. There is no penalty for guessing.
Ø The Writing and Speaking sections are evaluated by native English-speaking, ESL-trained
professionals, according to a standardized scoring rubric. Raters attend refresher training
sessions throughout the year to ensure continued adherence to the rubric.
Ø For computing the Overall score, each test section is weighed equally.
Ø The official score report presents an individual’s scoring information in both tabular and
graphical formats. The graphical format, or skill profile, is particularly useful for displaying
an examinee’s strengths and weaknesses in each of the skills evaluated.
5.7. iTEP Exam Development

iTEP International adheres to a continuous cycle of item analysis to ensure the content of the
assessment adheres to the reliability and validity goals of the assessment. The cycle begins with
item writing, enters an expert review and content analysis stage, and then works through a
number of statistical analyses to evaluate the difficulty level and other psychometric properties
of the item. Items that do not meet quality standards during the content analysis and/or
statistical analysis phase are either removed from further consideration, or repurposed if it is
determined that minor adjustments will improve the item. Items that meet quality standards
during the content analysis and statistical analysis phases are retained in the assessment. In order
to maintain a secure assessment and minimize the likelihood of an item being shared among
examinees over time, all items used in the assessment are retired after a certain length of time.
Items may also be identified as having “drifted” in difficulty over time, indicating that the item
may have been compromised; these items are retired immediately upon identification.

5.8. iTEP Validity and Reliability Overview

5.8.1. Reliability
The reliability of a test refers to the degree to which the test provides stable, consistent
information about a test-taker. Demonstrating a test’s reliability is important because if a test is
not stable and consistent—whether across the items in the test, across repeated administrations
of the test, or across repeated ratings of test performance by trained raters—then the case can
be made that the results cannot be relied upon as accurate.
5.8.2. Internal Consistency Reliability
Internal consistency reliability refers to the stability of the items within a particular test,
or in this case, within each section of the test. When it can be shown that the items within a test
are statistically related to each other, the case can be made that the test is consistent in its
measurement. The internal consistency reliability results, which can be interpreted as
conceptually similar to Cronbach’s alpha estimates, are provided in Table 1. As shown, all values
exceed the .70 criterion and exceed (Grammar) or approach (Listening and Reading) the .80
criterion.
Table 1. Internal Consistency Reliability Estimates for Relevant iTEP

Academic Sections
Section Number of Items Internal Consistency Reliability (µ)

Grammar 25 .89
Listening 14 .78
Reading 12 .77
Note. N = 17,731. The Internal consistency reliability estimates are

not Cronbach’s alpha values, but can be interpreted in a similar
manner to Cronbach’s alpha.

5.8.3. Test-Retest Reliability
Test-retest reliability refers to the stability of test scores across repeated administrations
of the test. A high level of test-retest reliability indicates that the examinee is likely to receive a
similar score every time he or she takes it—assuming the examinee’s actual skill in the domain
being measured has not changed. Values can range from -1.0 to 1.0, with values at or exceeding
.70 typically considered desirable. As can be seen, the Overall score exceeds this threshold.
Table 2. Test-Retest Reliability Estimates for iTEP Academic
Test Test-Retest Reliability

Overall .77
Overall – Core only .71
Note. N = 198. The OVERALL – Core score was approximated by

removing the Speaking and Writing section scores from the Overall
scores of examinees who completed the longer iTEP Academic-Plus.

Thank you for choosing iTEP.
Please contact us with any questions.
Contact Us:
www.iTEPexam.com

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iTEP GUIDE

Ó 2017 iTEP International, LLC

Thank you for being a part of the iTEP family!

Ó 2017 iTEP International, LLC.

Ó 2017 iTEP International, LLC.

1. iTEP TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

NOTE: To see if your computer meets the Technical Requirements, go to:

Any of the following browsers are recommended:

Ó 2017 iTEP International, LLC.

1.2. Windows Setup Instructions

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1.2.2. Running iTEP on Windows using Chrome Kiosk Mode

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1.2.3. Running iTEP on Windows in Browser Mode

All Browsers except Chrome and Firefox

C. Go to the following website to access the test:

Chrome and Firefox instructions

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1.3. Mac Setup Instructions

C. Click on “Click to Begin” to begin going through the Technical Checklist.

Chrome and Firefox instructions

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1.4. Chromebook Setup Instructions

B. Go to the following website to access the test:

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2. iTEP ADMINISTRATION INSTRUCTIONS

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2.2. Mac Administration Instructions

B. Go to the following website to access the test:

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2.3. Chromebook Administration Instructions

B. Go to the following website to access the test:

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2.4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about iTEP Testing

My system becomes unresponsive, the application freezes. What can I do?

I can’t hear anything. What might be the problem?

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2.5. Troubleshooting Measures for iTEP Testing

Ø Describe what happened leading up to the technical issue.

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3. iTEP ONLINE SYSTEMS

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3.2. Tests Available

A. Date Purchased: Displays the date of each purchase made.

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3.3. Tests Administered

D. Test ID #: Displays the Test ID Number for the test administered.

E. Version: Indicates which version and the type of test administered.

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3.4. View Graded Tests

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3.5. Additional myTEP Account Features

3.5.2. Retrieve Archived Test Results

3.5.3. Grade Tests

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4. TESTING BEST PRACTICES

Creating the Mail-Merge Notepaper Document

iTEP Note Paper

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4.2. Proctor Quick Reference Guide

On test day, prior to arrival of test-taker:

Upon arrival of test-taker:

Test Reset Procedures

We recommend keeping a copy of this document where iTEP is being administered.