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TOLES Advanced

Law
Language:
English

The Test of Legal English Skills (TOLES) is the undisputed market leader in certifying proficiency in Legal English, with 12 years of service in providing reliable, valid assessments of language skills. The TOLES is a practical, industry-specific test that meets the needs of international and local law firms for reliable measurement of Legal English ability. The TOLES Exam Body is a member of the International Division of the Law Society of England & Wales. The TOLES exams focus on accuracy of language use, a strong legal vocabulary and familiarization with modern legal style. The TOLES ADVANCED exam is considered the standard of achievement in legal English.

The exam has a heavy focus on the vocabulary and grammar required for contract drafting. It also encourages knowledge of the plain English style of writing favored these days by leading commercial law firms. The exam requires sensitivity to register, and an understanding of how formal and informal English is used in a professional workplace. The examination lasts 2 hours. Please note that although TOLES is a no-fail exam, a low score cannot actually prove the good knowledge of Legal English required by employers. The maximum score possible at Advanced level is 100. Any candidate scoring in the 81-100% category genuinely has very similar legal English skills to a native English-speaking solicitor, barrister or attorney.

Explanation of TOLES ADVANCED Grades (max 100)

 

TOLES Advanced exam results are reported within a four-band scale.

  • BAND ONE (81-100%) This candidate is assessed as having EXCELLENT legal English skills at Advanced exam level.
  • BAND TWO (61-80%) This candidate is assessed as having VERY GOOD legal English skills at Advanced exam level.
  • BAND THREE (41-60%) This candidate is assessed as having SATISFACTORY legal English skills at Advanced exam level.
  • BAND FOUR (1-40%) This candidate is assessed as having LESS THAN SATISFACTORY legal English skills at Advanced exam level.


Who is the TOLES Advanced exam for?

The TOLES Advanced certificate is ideal for lawyers, law students and legal translators.

What level of English is required for the exam?

Good knowledge of English language (C1) is required.

When is the examination held and what is the examination fee?

The exact dates are announced at the beginning of each year. For 2025 the exam will be held on January 23rd and June 26th. The examination fee is €150.

How can I prepare and register for the examination?

You need to register at least 6 weeks before the exam date. Please call 2103680006 for details on registration procedures and preparation options.

Are there any sample test papers I can see?

Yes, you can download TOLES Advanced sample papers here.

What kind of recognition TOLES Advanced has?

Law firms and organizations that have already entered candidates for the TOLES exams include:

  • The Law Society of England and Wales
  • Linklaters Oppenhoff and Radler
  • Allen&Overy LLP
  • Baker and McKenzie
  • PricewaterhouseCoopers
  • KPMG
  • Sony Ericsson
  • Daimler Chrysler
  • European Court of Justice
  • European Central Bank
  • Deutsche Bundesbank
  • Qatar Steel Company
  • Qatar Petrochemical Corporation
  • DuPont
  • Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer
  • Siemens

Does the TOLES exam certificate ‘expire’ after a certain period of time?

No. Your TOLES certificate is valid for life.

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