A recent survey by Pearson Test of English (PTE) has revealed that 62% of English test-takers in India fear that their Indian accent may negatively impact their speaking test scores. Additionally, 74% of respondents believe their appearance could influence their performance when evaluated by a human examiner.

The survey, which polled 1,000 individuals preparing for English proficiency tests for work, study, or migration, highlights deep-seated concerns about bias in language assessments. A staggering 96% of respondents had previously taken tests graded by human examiners.

Concerns Over Bias in English Testing

The findings reveal widespread apprehension about unconscious biases based on accent, skin tone, attire, and social status:

• 59% of respondents fear that skin color could affect their scores, with lighter-skinned individuals potentially receiving favorable treatment.
• 64% believe clothing choices can influence the impression they create, with 67% of test-takers in Maharashtra expressing this concern.
• 70% of participants, particularly in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh, believe those with prestigious jobs or strong educational backgrounds are treated with more respect.

Accent and Appearance: Key Factors in Perceived Bias

Many test-takers believe that modifying their accent and appearance could improve their scores:

• 63% of respondents—especially from Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu—feel that reducing their Indian accent will enhance their test performance.
• 77% of test-takers in Punjab believe that physical appearance can impact speaking test scores.
• 64% think that adopting a specific accent could improve results, with 35% favoring an American accent (especially in Tamil Nadu) and 21% preferring a British accent (notably in Uttar Pradesh).
• 76% of respondents feel that dressing formally could create a “professional” impression and lead to higher scores.

Technology as a Solution to Bias

Prabhul Ravindran, Director of English Language Learning at Pearson India, acknowledged the long-standing impact of biases in English assessments and career opportunities.

“For years, concerns about accents and appearance have influenced people’s prospects and even their earning potential. English language testing is not immune to these biases, but we are working to change that,” Ravindran said.

He emphasized that Pearson’s AI-powered evaluation system, which recognizes over 125 accents, removes human bias by eliminating face-to-face interviews and focusing solely on language proficiency.

India’s Global English Proficiency Ranking

The Global English Proficiency Report by Pearson, released last month, found that:

• India ranks above the global average in spoken English, with Delhi leading, followed by Rajasthan.
• India’s overall English proficiency score (52) is lower than the global average (57), but its spoken English score (57) is higher than the global benchmark (54).

With concerns over fairness in English testing, experts say AI-driven assessment tools like Pearson’s Versant test could provide a more objective and unbiased evaluation, ensuring a level playing field for test-takers worldwide.