There are various types of English-language certificates available, depending on the exam and certifying organization:

1. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

Is a standardized test that measures a non-native speaker's ability to use and understand the English language in an academic context.

Many academic institutions and organizations require TOEFL scores as part of their application process for non-native English speaking students and professionals. The TOEFL is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and is accepted in over 130 countries worldwide.

The TOEFL consists of four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. The entire test lasts 4 hours and is typically taken on a computer at a designated testing center.

The Reading section consists of 3-5 academic passages with 12-14 questions per passage. Test-takers have 60-80 minutes to complete this section. 

The Listening section consists of 4-6 lectures or conversations with 6 questions per lecture or conversation. Test-takers have 60-90 minutes to complete this section. 

The Speaking section consists of 4 tasks where test-takers are asked to express their thoughts and opinions orally. Test-takers have 20 minutes to complete this section. 

The Writing section consists of 2 tasks where test-takers are asked to write essays based on a given prompt. Test-takers have 50 minutes to complete this section. 

Each section is scored on a scale of 0-30, and the total score ranges from 0-120. Test- takers can choose to send their scores to up to four institutions or organizations for free.

2. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

IELTS is a standardized test designed to assess the proficiency of non-native English speakers in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. It is accepted by a wide range of universities, colleges, and organizations in the UK, Australia, Canada, the USA, and other countries where English is the language of communication.

IELTS is a test that measures the ability of candidates to use English in an academic or professional context. The exam consists of four sections:

Listening

The listening section comprises four audio recordings, and candidates are required to answer 40 questions based on them.

Reading

The reading section of the exam includes three long passages, and candidates have to answer 40 questions based on them.

Writing

The writing section consists of two tasks. In task 1, candidates have to describe a chart or graph, while in task 2, they are required to provide an argumentative essay on a given topic.

Speaking

The speaking section comprises a face-to-face interview with an examiner. The examiner will ask a series of questions, ranging in topics from personal experiences to current events, and candidates will be expected to answer thoughtfully and with detail. The speaking test typically lasts around 11-14 minutes.  Overall, the IELTS speaking test is designed to assess a candidate's ability to function in an English-speaking environment, whether it be in a social or professional setting. 

The test is scored out of 9, and most universities require a score of 6.5 or higher for admission. The validity of IELTS scores is two years.

3. Cambridge English Certificates

Cambridge English Certificates are internationally recognized language proficiency exams that are designed to assess the English language skills of non-native speakers. They are developed and administered by the University of Cambridge, which is known for its expertise in language testing and assessment.

These include:

А2 Key (former – Key English Test/KET)

This exam tests basic knowledge of the English language and is used for entry to low-level English-speaking jobs and study programs.

В1 Preliminary (former – Preliminary English Test/PET)

This exam tests the ability to communicate in everyday situations and is used for entry to intermediate-level jobs and study programs.

В2 First (former – First Certificate in English/FCE)

This exam tests the ability to communicate effectively in a variety of settings and is used for entry to higher-level jobs and study programs.

C1 Advanced (former – Сertificate in Advanced English/САЕ)

This exam tests advanced-level language proficiency and is used for admission to universities and other institutions of higher learning.

C2 Proficiency (former – Certificate of Proficiency in English/CPE)

This exam tests expert-level language proficiency and is used for entry to high-level academic and professional positions.

Each of these exams consists of several sections, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking. 

One of the advantages of taking a Cambridge English Certificate is that it is recognized by universities, employers, and governments worldwide. 

4. TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication)

TOEIC is a standardized test that measures the English language proficiency of non-native speakers in international business situations. Developed by Educational Testing  Service (ETS), TOEIC is designed specifically for individuals who use English in their daily work, such as office administrators, secretaries, sales representatives, and managers.

TOEIC is a two-part exam that assesses both the listening and reading skills of test- takers. The Listening section consists of 100 questions and takes approximately 45 minutes to complete. The Reading section, on the other hand, consists of 100 questions and takes approximately 75 minutes to complete. The total duration of the exam is two hours and thirty minutes.

The test uses a multiple-choice format, and the questions are based on real-life business situations, such as emails, meetings, and presentations. Test-takers are expected to understand and respond appropriately to various English-language scenarios, including announcements, directions, and recommendations.

TOEIC scores range from 10 to 990, and the scores are divided into five proficiency levels: beginner, intermediate, proficient, advanced, and expert. Most organizations and universities require a minimum TOEIC score for admission or employment.

Typically, a score of 700 or higher is considered proficient, while a score of 900 or higher is considered advanced.

TOEIC is widely recognized by businesses, governments, and educational institutions in over 160 countries worldwide. 

5. PEIC (Pearson English International certificate)

PEIC is awarded by EdExcel and recognized by  educators and employers around the world. It is designed to assess the English language proficiency of non-native speakers in order to help them gain admission into universities and colleges.

The test is divided into two distinct parts - a written examination that assesses your ability to write and comprehend, and an oral exam that evaluates your speaking and comprehension abilities. The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions, essay writing and summary writing tasks while the oral exam requires students to answer questions based on audio recordings or videos.

To obtain an English-language certificate, individuals must typically register for a specific exam and pay a fee. 

Some exams, like the TOEFL and IELTS, have a specific score range that universities or employers require for admission or employment. Other exams, like the Cambridge English Certificates or PEIC, offer different levels of certificates based on proficiency.