Information on the Ontario Test of English Achievement is presented. Attention is directed to the background and objectives of the test, test development, subtest characteristics and properties, validity, and recommendations concerning test use. The objective of the test was to determine the language competence of incoming students to assist universities in tailoring first-year English courses to meet students' needs. The components tested are the ability to read, write, plan, and develop a theme; and competence in the use of the mechanics of language. The reading comprehension subtests contain multiple-choice questions of six reading passages, four of which are based on economics. The thesis development subtest contains questions that require the identification of appropriate first and last sentences, essay outlines, supporting arguments, theses, and topic sentences. The language subtests cover spelling, grammar, diction/usage, and sentence structure. The topic for the written English subtest is expository (point of view or argument). Appendices include a report on scorer reliability and an analysis of the special problem of pre- and post-testing students in the area of written English. (SW)