Exploring the Shortcomings of the Iranian MSRT English Proficiency Test

The Iranian Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology (MSRT) English Proficiency Test (EPT) has been in use since 1992. While the MSRT-EPT is generally claimed to be reliable, valid, practical, it does not assess speaking writing skills. In this exploratory study, a qualitative approach was used examine test-takers experiences language education experts’ beliefs about test as well their congruence with each other through semi-structured telephone interviews. Convenience purposive sampling procedures were select 15 participants. Inductive coding method applied determine invariant constituents. Then, constituents reduced categories, finally categories clustered into 11 themes. Dependability validity study established triangulation, inter-coder agreement, member checking technique. problems associated lack productive skills included correspondence between content Ph.D. Candidates'' needs, negative washback effect, non-theory-based content, inappropriate listening conditions, items originality. On hand, candidates’ perspectives highly congruent. light these findings, importance designing more comprehensive including all facets proficiency construct highlighted, some suggestions made for future research.