ACTFL Testing

Designed by national testing experts, the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) tests are carefully constructed assessments that determine functional language ability as described in the ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines (2024). 

ACTFL proficiency tests are currently being used worldwide by academic institutions, government agencies, and private corporations. Teacher certification boards in more than 20 states require evidence of spoken and/or written language competency as demonstrated through official ACTFL ratings. At the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, ACTFL tests are used to demonstrate Advanced-level proficiency for the Certificate of Advanced Proficiency Program.

About the ACTFL Tests

• The Reading Proficiency Tests (RPT) and the Listening Proficiency Tests (LPT) are standardized, computer-delivered tests for the global assessment of reading and listening ability in a particular language.
• The Writing Proficiency Tests (WPT) are carefully constructed assessments with four to five requests for written responses dealing with practical, social, and/or professional topics that are encountered in informal and formal contexts.
• The Oral Proficiency Interview - Computer (OPIc) is an internet-delivered test that simulates a conversation. It provides valid and reliable oral proficiency testing on a large scale.

Reading, listening, writing, and speaking abilities are rated on a scale from Novice to Distinguished. After completing a test, students receive an official documentation from ACTFL of their rating. Ratings are valid for two years.