If there’s one thing that frustrates CHROs and CEOs, it’s overspending on tools that don’t truly impact hiring outcomes. Versant by Pearson has long been the default choice. It gets the job done, sure! But often at a premium price and with features that don’t always align with modern hiring needs.
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After extensive conversations with VPs of People Ops, CTOs, and founders, here’s what’s really happening in the market and why many are exploring other Versant alternatives.
So, what’s the smarter move in 2025? Let’s unpack what high-growth companies are actually using to assess English skills without wasting time or budget.
TL;DR – Key Takeaways!
- Versant by Pearson is widely used but often expensive, slow, and built mainly for call-center roles.
- Companies seek alternatives better suited for diverse roles like developers and marketers.
- Xobin offers affordable, fast, and integrated English proficiency testing with LSRW skills for modern hiring.
- Duolingo English Test brings consumer-grade UX but at a higher cost.
- LinguaSkill by Cambridge offers academic credibility for formal industries but feels outdated to some.
- Choose Xobin for high-volume, cost-effective hiring; LinguaSkill for traditional roles needing international recognition.
- Evaluate true cost per hire, required skill level, funnel stage, and hiring volume before switching.
- Still unsure? Run 10–20 pilot tests to compare performance before switching.
Why Are Companies Moving Away from Versant?
Versant is like the Salesforce of English testing that is widely used and highly recognizable. Yet, “widely used” doesn’t always mean the best fit for every company or role. Here are the most common challenges shared by hiring leaders:
- Built for Call Centers: Initially created for voice-based roles, it falls short for assessing developers, marketers, or product teams.
- No Transparent Pricing: With rates ranging from $12 to $50 per test, costs quickly spiral at scale.
- Test Confusion: Multiple versions (15, 30, 60 mins) with no role-based guidance.
- Delayed Results: Hiring teams report slow turnaround times that delay decision-making.
- Limited Integration: Versant tests don’t easily integrate with modern ATS, creating inefficiencies.
Top Versant Alternatives for English Assessment that Actually Work
Based on feedback from companies actively replacing Versant, here are the solutions proving to be more effective:
1. Xobin: English Proficiency Testing for Modern Hiring
What it is: Built for hiring teams, not language schools. The Xobin English Proficiency Test assesses candidates across LSRW (Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing) English testing.
Why it works: At just $2-$4 per test, Xobin is dramatically more affordable than Versant. It offers a clean interface, instant results, and a candidate-friendly experience. From unicorn startups to Fortune 100 software companies, use Xobin English Language Tests. Moreover, Xobin seamlessly integrates language testing with skills assessments like coding, sales, and logic, all on one platform.
Best for: Recruiters who want speed, affordability, and rich insights from a single dashboard for mid to high-volume hiring and early-stage screening.
Book a demo with Xobin today and see how modern, affordable English proficiency testing can accelerate your hiring without breaking your budget!
2. Duolingo English Test: The Consumer-Grade Disruptor
What it is: Yes, the same Duolingo that taught you Spanish. They’ve built a corporate English assessment that’s actually quite good.
Why it works: Candidates recognize and trust the brand, the UX is polished, and the test provides a comprehensive assessment in about 60 minutes.
The catch: At $59 per attempt, it’s pricier and may feel less tailored for enterprise hiring needs.
Best For: Companies seeking a sleek, globally accepted alternative with a consumer-first approach.
3. LinguaSkill: The Cambridge Credential
What it is: Backed by the University of Cambridge, this test combines academic credibility with a structured approach for business environments.
Why it works: The Cambridge name carries weight. Results are internationally recognized. Takes around 1 hour, similar to Duolingo, but uses a more classic testing methodology.
The catch: It may feel outdated to some, and the interface lacks the modern polish of newer tools.
Best for: Formal industries or roles requiring high-level, internationally recognized communication skills.
How to Choose the Right English Testing Solution?
Here’s a simple framework to guide your decision:
If you’re doing high-volume hiring, looking to replace Versant, and need enterprise features (100+ tests/month): Start with Xobin for cost-efficiency and scalability. The economics just make sense, and you can always layer on more sophisticated testing later in your funnel.
If you’re in a traditional industry or need international credibility, LinguaSkill. Sometimes the Cambridge name is worth the extra cost.
Crucial Questions to Ask Before Switching
Before you switch, ask yourself:
- What’s the actual cost per hire? Don’t just look at per-test pricing. Add admin hours, drop-offs, and mis-hires.
- What English level is truly needed? Most roles need practical communication skills, not academic perfection.
- How does this fit in your hiring funnel? Use assessments early for screening or later for validation, just be intentional.
- Are you hiring at scale? Economics changes dramatically at scale.
Is Versant Still Worth It?
Versant isn’t going anywhere. It’s the safe choice. But safe doesn’t always mean smart.
Many organizations now prefer combining Xobin English Language tests with other job-based skill assessments, all at a fraction of the cost. It’s faster, scalable, and built for the hiring workflows of today.
In 2025, communication is infrastructure. Don’t waste your budget on outdated tools. The best teams are already switching for speed, signal, and savings. Are you?
One last thing: Whatever you choose, pilot it. Run 10-20 tests alongside your current process. Let the data speak. Then scale confidently.
FAQs
1. What is the best Versant alternative for corporate English testing?
Xobin is a top-rated Versant alternative that offers complete LSRW testing with fast results and full integration with skills assessments.
2. How much does English proficiency testing cost compared to Versant?
Versant tests typically cost between $12 to $50 per test, while alternatives like Xobin offer tests for as low as $2 to $4 each.
3. Why are companies moving away from Versant?
Common reasons include high cost, slow results, limited ATS integration, and tests designed mainly for call-center roles rather than diverse job functions.
4. What should I consider when choosing an English proficiency test?
Evaluate cost-per-hire, testing turnaround time, candidate experience, integration with your hiring funnel, and whether the tool fits your volume needs.
