Language Proficiency Test

I wanted to take some time today to talk about language proficiency tests. A proficiency test can be a useful way to prove your skills, whether to an employer, a government agency, an education institution, or simply to yourself.

Below, I’ll walk you through what language proficiency tests are, discuss a few sample use cases, and look at some of the most commonly used tests for a range of languages. Ready? Then let’s get started. 

What Is Language Proficiency Test? 

A language proficiency test evaluates a person's ability to use a language in real-world scenarios, focusing on practical skills over memorized vocabulary and grammar. These tests assess communication effectiveness in everyday situations, contrasting with traditional educational language assessments.

The difference means that there’s more to passing a language proficiency test than studying a textbook. You’ll need to have a natural feel for the language and how to use it in everyday conversation. I’ll discuss further below how you can prepare for this kind of linguist test. First, let’s look at what’s involved. 

How Do Language Proficiency Tests Work? 

Language proficiency tests are conducted using machine-scored Listening Proficiency Test (LPT) and Reading Proficiency Test (RPT). These types of language tests focus on four areas: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. When you use a language daily, you’ll need to use all of these skills. This type of language proficiency test is designed to examine how competent you are at doing so.

In pretty much any language fluency test you’re going to spend a fair amount of time talking. Conversational testing can include speaking with the examiner or talking with a third party while the examiner watches. You might also be asked to watch a video or listen to an audio clip and then answer questions based on it.

Other bilingual tests combine skills in different ways. You might, for example, be asked to read an article and then discuss its contents. This will allow the examiner to consider both your spoken skills and your comprehension of the details that you’ve read. 

Why Should You Take Language Proficiency Tests? 

Passing language proficiency tests will improve your chances of getting accepted to foreign colleges, landing your dream job overseas, or getting into a company that serves foreign markets. It is also an excellent way to enhance your professional profile.

The kinds of linguistic tests also have wider benefits. Cardiff University Business School advises that the UK loses £48 billion every year in lost contracts due to a lack of workplace language skills.

The UK has a reputation for its monolingualism, but I was still surprised to read that 96% of English exporters don’t have any foreign language ability in the markets they serve. This means that companies can’t move in an agile way when it comes to winning new business, or sometimes even maintaining existing business. Suddenly that lost £48 billion per year makes sense.

If you’re interested in learning more about sought-after languages in the business world, click the article below.

Read more: The Languages That Every Translator Should Be Thinking About

Common Use Cases of Language Proficiency Tests

I think it’s worth running through some common examples of when and why you might be required to undertake a language assessment test. 

Employment Scenarios

Do you want to work in a country where you don’t speak the language natively? If you move to the US or the UK, for example, you can sit an English language competency test to show that your linguistic abilities are sufficient for a role in the corporate world there. 

Studying Abroad

Young people who dream of studying abroad need to do more than get good grades in their chosen subject. They often need to pass a language proficiency test, demonstrating that their linguistic abilities meet the necessary standards for their destination's educational environment. These tests assess whether students possess the requisite knowledge and skills even before attending classes at the university.

Government-mandated Language Proficiency Tests 

In certain circumstances, it may be a government-mandated test that you need to take. For certain visa or citizenship applications in the UK, for example, you may need to pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT). In the US, meanwhile, it is the ACTFL Oral Proficiency Interview that you’ll need to complete. 

Specialist Tests 

There are also situations when you many need to take a specialist proficiency test. The Defense Language Proficiency Test, for example, is used to test individuals’ use of languages that are needed by the military. 

Language Proficiency Tests You Should Know About

There are so many types of language testing out there, that it can be hard to know where to start. Indeed, the same can be true even of which language to learn. Thankfully, we’ve rounded up 15 of the best languages to learn to make it a little easier for you.

Before I run through which language proficiency tests you should know about for each language, it’s worth noting that European Language Certificates (TELC) are available to cover ten languages: English, German, Turkish, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Polish and Arabic. These language proficiency tests correspond with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages and can be taken in over 20 countries.

Let’s look at some additional options. 

English

Taking a standardized English proficiency test is one of the fastest ways to prove your linguistic credentials. 

TOEFL

One of the most in-demand standardized English proficiency tests is the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), from the Educational Testing Service. It is one of the two most recognized English proficiency tests used around the world and is favored particularly by academic institutions, as well as many professional bodies. 

IELTS

The other major English language test is the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), which has been in use since 1989. It is the only Secure English Language Test approved for use currently by the UK Visas and Immigration service.

IELTS is used to verify non-native speakers’ English proficiency in multiple countries, including the UK, Australia, Canada, Ireland, the US, and New Zealand. Many European countries also use it. As with TOEFL, it is commonly used in academic settings, as well as professional organizations. 

TOEIC

The Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC) is commonly used to test the language skills of those working in international environments. It includes language exams designed to test listening and reading proficiency and speaking and writing proficiency. 

German

Sprechen Sie Deutsche? If so, and you want or need to prove your abilities, it’s likely that you will be one of the German language proficiency tests below. 

DSD

The Deutsches Sprachdiplom Stufe I and II (DSD) is designed to test the linguistic proficiency of those who speak German as a foreign language. Used mainly in schools, the test has been around since 1973. Speakers are assessed on level A2/B1 or B2/C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

DSH

The Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (DSH) is the language assessment test used by German universities to test students’ ability to understand the language that their classes will be delivered in. Its three grading levels equate to B2, C1, and C2 on the Common European Framework of Reference. 

TestDaF

The Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache (TestDaF) is used in 95 countries to assess the German language proficiency of academics and scientists who wish to work in German universities, as well as those who wish to study at them. 

French

If it’s your French language credentials you need to prove, one of the following options may well do the trick. 

TEF

The Test d'Évaluation du Français (TEF) is used by a range of institutions, including many universities and the Federal Government of Canada to test fluency as part of its immigration procedures. The full test is divided into five sections and takes just under four hours to complete. In some situations, two of the sections are optional. 

TCF

The Test de Connaissance du Français (TCF) is used in both France and Canada by job applicants and for education purposes, as well as for immigration processes in Québec. Proficiency levels follow the CEFR, from A1 through to C2. 

TFI

The Test de Français International (TFI) is a language test administered by the Educational Testing Service. It assesses listening and reading skills and lasts for around 2.5 hours. 

Spanish

Many people learn Spanish in order to study or work. As such, there are a range of Spanish proficiency exams that learners can take. 

DELE

The Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera (DELE) are used by more than 100 countries to recognize speakers’ Spanish proficiency. This respected Spanish fluency certification is used by schools and universities across the Spanish-speaking world. Over 60,000 DELE Spanish language proficiency exams take place every year. 

SIELE

The Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española (SIELE) is an official Spanish proficiency test that assesses individuals’ level of ability for both academic and professional purposes. SIELE approaches Spanish as a universal language, meaning that it includes characteristics from Latin American Spanish as well as European. 

CELU

The Certificado de Español: Lengua y Uso (CELU) is an Argentinian Spanish language proficiency test for both studying and working purposes in Argentina. 

Chinese

While some assert that Mandarin Chinese is the hardest language to learn, many people attempt it with a view to enhancing their career or business prospects. The language proficiency tests detailed below are used to assess their level of linguistic success. 

HSK

The Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) is the standardized language assessment test for learners of Standard Chinese. Administered by Hanban (an agency of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China), it can be used in both academic and corporate settings. It can be taken in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao but not in Taiwan. 

TOCFL

The Test of Chinese as a Foreign Language (TOCFL) can’t be taken in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao. It is the standardized test of Taiwanese Mandarin and is usually undertaken by non-native speakers wishing to study in Taiwan. 

Korean

Do you speak Korean and plan to study or work in Korea? If so, one of the following could help you on your way. 

TOPIK

The Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) is available for non-native speakers to take to prove their Korean language skills. It is used by universities and businesses to assess applicants’ proficiency. 

KPE

The Korean Proficiency Exam (KPE) can be taken by those who live overseas and wish to work or study in Korea. The standardized language assessment test covers speaking, listening, reading, and writing. 

Japanese

Japanese is a fascinating language and one that can be very rewarding to learn. To prove your credentials, you can sit on one of the following proficiency tests. 

JLPT

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is a five-level foreign language test that is held twice every year in Japan and once elsewhere. It assesses language knowledge and reading and listening abilities. 

NAT-TEST

The Japanese Language NAT-TEST mirrors the JLPT in many ways. It is designed for students who wish to study in Japan but don’t speak the language natively. 

BJT

The Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT) is a comprehensive Japanese literacy test suited to the corporate world. While the JLPT focuses on general language use, the BJT has business language at its core. 

Arabic

Are you looking for an Arabic language proficiency test? If so, will one of the following suit your needs? 

ALPT

The Arabic Language Proficiency Test (ALPT) is an Arabic proficiency test that is endorsed by the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Industry. This covers all 22 Arab countries, along with a further 34 countries in Africa and the Far East. Its five sections include tests designed to measure listening comprehension, reading, speaking, writing, and structure. 

Certificat International de Maîtrise en Arabe

The Paris-based Institut du Monde Arabe introduced the Certificat International de Maîtrise en Arabe in 2019 to provide a common measurement of proficiency in Arabic in line with the Common European Framework of Reference. It has been rolled out mainly in private high schools in Arab countries, as well as in France and Switzerland. 

Italian

Parla italiano? If you do and need to formalize your skills, then one of the following language proficiency exams could help. 

CILS

The Certificazione di Italiano come Lingua Straniera (CILS) is widely used by Italian higher education institutions to assess the language abilities of non-native Italian speakers who wish to study at them. It’s also recognized by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

CELI

The Certificato di Conoscenza della Lingua Italiana (CELI) is another qualification used by non-native Italian speakers looking to study in Italy, as well as by immigrants and those seeking work in Italy. It is recognized by the Italian Ministry of Education and Research and the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

PLIDA

The Progetto Lingua Italiana Dante Alighieri (PLIDA) are language diplomas that recognize the holder’s Italian language proficiency, following the completion of a standardized language test. 

Tips on How to Ace Different Language Proficiency Tests

If you’re psyching yourself up to pass a foreign language proficiency test with flying colors, there are plenty of ways that you can help yourself: 

• Put the hours in: immerse yourself in the language in every way you can, for as many hours a day as you can. 

• Make it fun: mix up conversations, watch TV/movies, read books or online articles, play video games that have chat functions, use flashcards, play word games, and more to vary your learning and stay engaged. 

• Take mock tests: Transparent Language is a great resource for this and TELC also allows you to buy mock exams for a wide range of languages. If I wanted to test my Spanish proficiency, for example, this is where I would head first. 

FAQs

How are language proficiency levels classified?

Proficiency levels are often classified using frameworks like the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), which categorizes proficiency from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient).

How long are language proficiency test scores valid?

The validity period of test scores varies. For instance, TOEFL and IELTS scores are typically valid for two years, while some other tests may have different validity periods.

Can I retake a language proficiency test if I'm not satisfied with my score?

Yes, most language proficiency tests allow retakes. However, there may be specific policies regarding the frequency and waiting periods between attempts.

Are there online language proficiency tests available?

Yes, some tests, like the Duolingo English Test, are available online and can be taken from home. However, it's important to verify if the institution you're applying to accepts these online test scores.

What is the difference between a language proficiency test and a placement test?

A language proficiency test assesses your overall ability in a language, often for certification or admission purposes. In contrast, a placement test determines your appropriate level in a language course or program.

Summary 

Are you ready to sit your language skills test? I’ve run through some of the most common options here, as well as looking at what’s involved in foreign language proficiency testing, the benefits of it, and how you can prepare. Now, the rest is up to you.