English Language Testing
Whether applying to a university, seeking career advancement, or certifying your team’s language skills, a recognized English language certification offers objective proof of proficiency — opening doors to new opportunities. Language Testing International® (LTI) offers a full suite of internationally recognized English language proficiency tests — both online and in person. LTI is the exclusive licensee of ACTFL, an organization trusted by schools, businesses, and government agencies worldwide.
Types of Language Proficiency Tests in English
LTI provides a range of ACTFL assessments for English proficiency, evaluating the four core communication skills. We also offer comprehensive ACTFL English tests.
ACTFL Skill-Specific Proficiency Tests
Whether accessing new job opportunities or guiding academic student placement, you can achieve skill-specific proficiency certifications based on your credentialing requirements. LTI assessments measure four key competencies — speaking, writing, listening, and reading.
Speaking Assessments
Conversational and formal speaking are some of the most critical communication skills in any language. Widely recognized by employers and academic institutions, the Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) and Oral Proficiency Interview - computer (OPIc) are the gold standard for English-speaking assessments.
- OPI: This short phone interview lasts 15 to 30 minutes and mimics a natural, unscripted conversation.
- OPIc: This internet-delivered test follows a similar format to the OPI and has the same rigorous standards.
Writing Proficiency
The Writing Proficiency Test (WPT) is a 20-80 minute assessment of functional writing ability in English.
Listening Proficiency
Taking anywhere from 50-125 minutes, the Listening Proficiency Test (LPT) evaluates listening ability in English.
Reading Proficiency
Test takers use the 50-125-minute Reading Proficiency Test (RPT) to measure their ability to read written passages and answer multiple-choice questions.
ACTFL Test of English Proficiency
Widely used by schools, government agencies, and businesses for hiring decisions, the remotely proctored ACTFL Test of English Proficiency (TEP) assesses the language proficiency levels of test takers. The test lasts two to four hours and includes three ACTFL assessments to provide a reliable measure of English language proficiency:
- Speech proficiency: The OPIc obtains a ratable sample of speech.
- Writing proficiency: The WPT captures the test-taker's functional writing proficiency.
- Listening and reading proficiency: The L&Rcat evaluates listening and reading proficiency.
ACTFL Assessment of Performance Toward Proficiency in Languages (AAPPL)
With more multilingual and international students entering the U.S. school system, it's critical to have objective, reliable English proficiency evaluations. The ACTFL Assessment of Performance Toward Proficiency in Languages (AAPPL) is specifically designed for school-aged students in grades 3 through 12. It assesses what English learners can do rather than just specific words or phrases they know.
ACTFL Proficiency Scale and Score Conversions With International Standards
English tests are scored according to the internationally recognized ACTFL Proficiency Scale, which rates learners at the Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, or Superior range of proficiency. These results are further broken down into sublevels — Low, Mid, and High — for more precise placement.
Schools and organizations that operate internationally may prefer that assessments be mapped in another widely used framework.
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale is used in Europe and beyond. This scale defines language ability in terms of practical, "can-do" statements across six reference levels — A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. Most ACTFL English proficiency test scores can be issued on the CEFR scale with a CEFR certification.
The Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR) is used by many U.S. government agencies, from school districts to the CIA. An ACTFL English assessment delivered by LTI can be rated on the ILR's six-point system, with proficiency levels ranging from 0 to 5.
Find the Right English Language Proficiency Test for Any Scenario
ACTFL English language proficiency assessments delivered by LTI are beneficial for numerous use cases for individuals, organizations, and schools.
For Individuals
Earning an ACTFL English certificate is an excellent way to stand out professionally and academically. Certifications can strengthen your resume or college application, or demonstrate your English language skills for immigration or professional licensing.
For Businesses
In a competitive job market, you need to know that applicants and current employees have essential English language communication skills. Remotely-proctored ACTFL English proficiency tests screen applicants early in the hiring process to ensure they possess the linguistic range needed for the job. You can also certify a current employee's English proficiency.
For Academic Institutions
Schools and universities need objective and reliable English proficiency evaluations in academic settings. The TEP is ideal for higher education admissions and placement. The AAPPL is designed for elementary, middle, and high school students learning English in a classroom setting.
ACTFL English assessments allow schools to place students in the appropriate language courses and better track their progress toward English proficiency.
Find English Language Testing Solutions for Individuals and Organizations
As the industry-leading language testing provider and exclusive licensee of ACTFL assessments, LTI is proud to offer many English language assessment options.
Professionals and students who want to certify their English proficiency can schedule a test through LTI. Schools and organizations can learn more about our English language assessment options by contacting us online.