e-TEP, YDS or YÖKDİL: Which One Do I Need?
All three are ÖSYM exams, but they measure different things. YDS and YÖKDİL are multiple-choice tests of reading, vocabulary and grammar. The e-TEP is newer and tests all four skills, including speaking and writing, on a computer.
| e-TEP | YDS | YÖKDİL | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skills tested | Reading, listening, speaking, writing | Reading, vocabulary, grammar, translation (multiple choice) | Reading, vocabulary, grammar, translation (field-specific, multiple choice) |
| Format | On computer at a test centre | Paper-based (a computer-based e-YDS also exists) | Paper-based (a computer-based e-YÖKDİL also exists) |
| Questions / time | 30 reading + 30 listening questions, 4 speaking tasks, 2 writing tasks; about 2.5 hours | 80 questions, 180 minutes | 80 questions, 180 minutes |
| Score | 0–120 (0–30 per skill) with a CEFR level | 0–100 | 0–100 |
| Fields | General and academic English | General | Science, Health and Social Sciences |
| YDS equivalent | Can be converted to a YDS score with ÖSYM's table (B1–C1) | — | Depends on the institution |
Which one should I take?
- Check what the institution asks for first. The university, programme or employer you are applying to states which exam and score it accepts. The decision is always theirs.
- If they ask for a YDS score: ÖSYM's equivalency framework converts an e-TEP total score into a YDS score (for example, e-TEP 74 = YDS 80). Ask whether the institution accepts this framework.
- If you want to show your speaking and writing skills, or communication matters for the role, the e-TEP is a better fit because it tests all four skills.
- If you are strong in reading, vocabulary and grammar but not ready for speaking and writing, YDS or YÖKDİL may suit you better, as long as the institution accepts it.
- For applications abroad, international tests such as TOEFL or IELTS are usually required. Ask the institution whether it accepts ÖSYM exams.
Validity
ÖSYM recommends that e-TEP results be accepted for two years from the exam date, but each institution can set its own rules. Always check the current guide and the institution's announcement.
Sources: ÖSYM e-TEP – YDS Equivalency Framework (April 2026); ÖSYM exam guides. This page is a general guide, not official advice. Exam details can change, so check osym.gov.tr. ÖSYM document (PDF)