The PAE (Proficiency in Academic English) exam is a university-specific English proficiency test administered solely by Bilkent University. Its purpose is to assess whether newly enrolled students have sufficient academic English skills to begin their undergraduate studies directly, bypassing the preparatory English programme.

Why Is the PAE Important?

As Bilkent delivers education entirely in English, all incoming students must demonstrate a high level of academic English.
Those who score high enough on the PAE exam can start their departments immediately. Others are placed in the English preparatory school.

What Does the Exam Include?

The exam usually includes:

• Academic reading

• Academic listening

• Academic writing (essay writing)

• Grammar and vocabulary at a higher level

It is designed to measure skills needed for lectures, academic texts, and writing papers.

Who Takes the PAE?

• Newly enrolled Bilkent students

• Students who want to skip the preparatory English programme

• Those applying for English exemption within Bilkent

How to Prepare?

1. Understand the format and scoring.

2. Read academic texts and listen to lectures.

3. Practice academic writing and essays.

4. Solve sample exams.

5. You can take support from exam-focused institutions like Candelas.

Even though the PAE is university-specific, it’s a challenging exam that requires strategic preparation. Reliable and focused study makes success possible.