Advice for candidates
- Accurate reading and attentive listening are the two most important skills for passing the atTanal Arabic test. Avoid becoming preoccupied with the other skills.
- As far as possible, avoid focusing exclusively on grammar and basic language structures. Their role is to improve your use of the language for effective communication at work.
- Become familiar with the test format, components, number of questions, duration, delivery method and how to answer the questions.
- The atTanal Arabic test is computer-based. Contact technical support if you need help using the computer before or during the test.
- Candidates need to practise atTanal tests using mock tests and familiarity with computer functions and keyboard shortcuts.
Preparing for the grammar test
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Each grammar question has a fixed time limit that you must observe. Review syntax, morphology, common errors, punctuation and spelling to prepare for the different aspects of the test.
Preparing for the reading test
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In the atTanal reading test, students work with approximately 2,700 words and answer 24 questions.
- Observe the time limit for each question. Reading has three sections: a short passage with six questions, a medium passage with eight questions, and a long passage with ten questions.
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Read the parts of each passage needed to answer the questions. Practise quickly identifying relevant sections, using different strategies for different question types, and expanding your vocabulary.
Preparing for the writing test
- For academic writing, understand the required answer format, read the question carefully and identify exactly what it asks.
- Some students may need support with reading questions and reading strategies so they can give a clear, relevant answer.
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Analyse the question before writing so that your response addresses the task appropriately.
A standard essay includes a clear introduction, body paragraphs with topic sentences addressing the required ideas, and a short conclusion. - Familiarise yourself with the general band descriptors for both writing tasks. Use them to identify areas for improvement.
Preparing for the speaking test
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For speaking, listen to or read the question carefully and understand exactly what your answer must address.
You must give an oral answer addressing the question. Some students may need pronunciation and voice practice. Stay relaxed so that your voice is recorded clearly. - Analyse the question to answer accurately and appropriately. The speaking section takes place in the same test session through a straightforward process.
Preparing for the listening test
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For listening preparation, first learn the sections of the listening test. A fixed preparation period is provided before the audio starts.
• Short listening: you may hear the conversation a maximum of twice.
• Long conversation: you may hear the passage once before answering its questions, but each question may be heard twice.
• Lecture: you may hear the lecture once before proceeding to its questions, but each question may be heard twice. - Use the preparation time wisely to identify clues about the speakers and context. Anticipate what you will hear, pay attention to the allotted time and the type of information required. Knowing the test sections and how to approach them helps maintain concentration and reduce stress.
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Practise relevant listening material, including discussions between a man and a woman, engaging conversations and stories.
The invigilator may refuse or cancel a test, blacklist a candidate or bar participation if any of the following procedures, rules or instructions are violated. :
- An original, valid, unexpired passport or government-issued ID is required for admission. An additional secondary ID is required if the government ID is more than three years old.
- Keep your entire face visible to the camera and maintain a stable position throughout the test to avoid invalidating your results.
- Check that the headphones and microphone work properly and your recorded speech is clear. Equipment failure can invalidate results. Ask the supervisor for help if you encounter difficulty.
- Do not wear anything that conceals the face, such as a face-obscuring head covering, sunglasses or niqab.
- Do not leave the examination room during the test or the building during breaks.
- Prohibited materials may not be used during the test or breaks. These include study materials, paper, pens, mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, personal digital devices and other electronics. Ask the test centre to arrange safe storage.
- Do not eat, drink, smoke, speak to or disturb others. Behave courteously and respect all candidates, supervisors and invigilators at the test centre.
- Invigilators cannot answer questions about test content. After completing the test, direct such enquiries to the academic department of the organisation that owns the intellectual property and certification rights.
- Do not copy questions or answers, attempt to overhear or record content, or communicate with others during the test.
- After technical problems or a power interruption, the test resumes securely with the remaining time preserved. If the wait exceeds 60 minutes, you may choose to continue or retake the test on another date.
- Cooperate fully with personal checks. Empty your pockets and place all personal belongings in lockers or hand them directly to the test centre supervisor.

