Facing the Challenge of the ALES Verbal Section
For international students whose native language is not Turkish, applying to graduate programs in fields like Literature, History, Communications, or Fine Arts in Turkey presents a unique hurdle: the ALES Verbal (SÖZ) score.
The ALES Verbal section tests advanced Turkish reading comprehension, vocabulary nuance, and complex logical deduction based on text. For candidates targeting SÖZ-based graduate programs, this section is heavily weighted. To understand exactly how your performance translates into points, you should utilize our ALES Puan Hesaplama tool during your preparation.
How the SÖZ Score is Calculated
The SÖZ calculation formula is the exact inverse of the Quantitative (SAY) formula. It starts with the standard base score of 50 and heavily rewards correct answers in the Verbal section.
The standard coefficients for estimating the SÖZ score are:
- Verbal Net Multiplier: 0.6
- Quantitative Net Multiplier: 0.4
The Formula:SÖZ Score = 50 + (Verbal Net * 0.6) + (Quantitative Net * 0.4)
Just like the other sections, your "Net" is calculated by subtracting one-fourth of your incorrect answers from your correct answers (Net = Correct - (Incorrect / 4)).
The Power of the 0.6 Coefficient
Because of the 0.6 multiplier, a single Verbal Net is worth 50% more than a Quantitative Net when calculating your SÖZ score.
Let's look at an example. Suppose you need a score of 74 to qualify for a specific Master's program.
- If you rely entirely on the Verbal section (leaving math completely blank), you need exactly 40 Verbal Nets.
50 + (40 * 0.6) = 74. - If you rely entirely on the Math section (which is technically allowed but highly inefficient for SÖZ candidates), you would need 60 Quantitative Nets to reach the same score. Since there are only 50 math questions on the exam, it is mathematically impossible to achieve a competitive SÖZ score without performing well on the Verbal section.
Strategic Advice for International Students
Navigating an advanced language exam in a foreign language requires strict discipline. Here are the best strategies for managing the ALES Verbal section.
1. Beware of the Guessing Trap
The "4 wrongs cancel 1 right" penalty is especially dangerous in the Verbal section. When reading a complex paragraph in a second language, it is common to narrow the choices down to two options and "guess." Do not do this.
If you guess wrong on 4 questions, you lose those 4 questions PLUS one of your hard-earned correct answers. This translates to a direct loss of 0.6 points from your final SÖZ score. If you are not reasonably certain, leave it blank. A blank answer (0 penalty) is always better than a wrong guess.
2. The Logic Puzzles (Sözel Mantık)
The final 8-10 questions of the Verbal section are "Verbal Logic" puzzles (e.g., "Ali, Ayşe, and Can sit in a row. Ali is not next to Ayşe..."). Interestingly, these can be a goldmine for foreign students.
Unlike the reading comprehension questions that require a deep understanding of Turkish idioms and vocabulary, logic puzzles require only basic vocabulary to set up a visual chart or matrix. Once the matrix is built, you can often answer 3 or 4 questions rapidly. Practice setting up these logic tables—they transcend the language barrier.
3. Supplement with Basic Math
Do not ignore the Quantitative section. While the math multiplier is lower (0.4), the first 15 questions of the ALES math section are usually basic arithmetic and algebra. Since numbers are a universal language, solving 10 easy math questions guarantees you 4 full points (10 * 0.4) on your SÖZ score, reducing the immense pressure on your Turkish reading speed.
Conclusion
Achieving a high SÖZ score as a non-native speaker requires a strategic mix of high-accuracy Turkish reading, mastering visual logic puzzles, and scooping up easy math points. Keep track of your progress by regularly entering your practice test results into the ALES Puan Hesaplama calculator to ensure your strategy is working.
