Testing on the ILR Scale
Developed by the Federal Government’s Inter-Agency Language Roundtable (ILR) from descriptions used by the Foreign Service Institute, the ILR scale is the way in which the US Federal Government measures and refers to language ability. With 6 base levels from 0 (No Practical Proficiency) through 5 (Native or Bilingual Proficiency) and plus levels that can be assigned when proficiency is between base levels, the ILR scale encompasses the full range of language abilities.
Since the Interagency Language Roundtable does not officially test language speakers and users, select language testing organizations are authorized to test using the ILR scale. Language Testing International® (LTI), the exclusive licensee of ACTFL assessments, tests over 120 languages on the ILR scale through the Oral Proficiency Interview® (OPI). Numerous languages can be scored on the ILR scale through other test types as well, such as the Oral Proficiency Interview-Computer® (OPIc), Writing Proficiency Test® (WPT), Reading Proficiency Test® (RPT), and Listening Proficiency Test® (LPT). The results of our tests are accepted by government agencies.
What Is the Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR)?
The Interagency Language Roundtable was founded in 1955 after the military identified the need for a larger coordinated effort to measure language proficiency within US government and its branches. The ILR exists as an unfunded governmental organization that coordinates communication across departments and agencies in the interest of sharing and advancing knowledge regarding language learning, use, and testing.
Approximately 60% of all ILR members are federal employees, and the ILR Steering Committee is made up entirely of federal employees. The ILR represents over 40 different government departments and agencies — more than any other government or academic language association.
Test ratings on the ILR scale are accepted by all government branches, though the ILR itself does not administer tests. ACTFL assessments, delivered exclusively by LTI, can be rated on the ILR scale.
ILR Scales
The ILR Scale measures language ability in all four communication skills — listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Each skill has its own level descriptors and is rated from 0 (No Proficiency) to 5 (Functionally Native Professional Proficiency). Plus levels are assigned when proficiency is higher than a base level but doesn’t meet the criteria for the next higher base level.
Please see the link to each skill on the ILR scale with detailed level descriptors.
Practical Applications of the ILR Scale
As a measure of language ability, the ILR scale is a beneficial system for individuals and agencies concerned with the use of world languages in professional environments. Numerous federal agencies consider a high ILR score to be a competitive attribute or, in some cases, an essential qualification.
For example, the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) values multilingual capabilities in its personnel and applicants. The ILR scale is a core component of the CIA's evaluation process when considering new and current employees for certain roles and granting monetary incentives.
The U.S. Department of State uses the ILR scale to evaluate candidates seeking to become a Consular Fellow. The Department's Language Screening Test comprises two parts — Speaking and Reading — that evaluate the language user's proficiency with the ILR scale's criteria and scoring system.
Why Get Bilingual Certification as a Federal Employee?
Bilingual certification is a beneficial attribute to earn as a current or prospective federal employee.
The Federal Government Needs Multilingual Talent
Obtaining bilingual certification bolsters resumés with an in-demand attribute. Multilingual employees are essential in the federal government, and that need will continue to grow.
Many organizations recognize that multilingual staff is essential when serving a multicultural public. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has mobilized a plan to support equitable access to health care as the percentage of patients who do not use English as their first language grows.
Hiring multilingual employees also helps federally funded agencies comply with anti-discrimination requirements established in Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act.
More Jobs and Higher Wages Are Available to Bilingual Candidates
Bilingual certification could qualify individuals for more job opportunities, elevate their standing during candidate evaluations, and increase their pay. The CIA and the Department of State are two of many government agencies that value and reward multilingual abilities.
State and local agencies also offer opportunities and incentives for bilingual employees. For example, the City of Roanoke in Virginia implemented a Bilingual Employee Incentive Pay Program in 2024. The program's administrators use ACTFL tests to evaluate candidates.
Bilingual Speakers Establish Trust Between Agencies and the Public
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 68 million Americans speak a language other than English at home. While many individuals attempt to learn and use English, communicating in their first language can make them feel more comfortable and welcome. Bilingual certification can demonstrate to your organization's patrons that you have the skills to communicate with them in the language that feels most natural. The resulting trust can help more of the population benefit from vital services available through federal, state, and local agencies.
ILR Testing Online
Through ACTFL assessments, delivered by Language Testing International, individuals can certify 1 or all 4 of their communication skills in a language with a rating on the ILR Scale. Our tests can be scheduled and taken online from the comfort of your home. When you're ready to certify your language skills, we offer certifications for professionals as well as students and teachers.
In addition to online testing for individuals, Language Testing International has delivered ACTFL assessments to government agencies, Fortune 500 companies, small businesses, and academic institutions since 1992. We administer tests in over 120 different languages, and ACTFL’s widely accredited assessments are accepted and used by many major corporations and government agencies. Please click the links below to learn more about our testing options.
Contact Language Testing International Today
If you are an individual, you can browse our selection of tests for individuals and schedule your test today. Organizations can contact us online to learn more about our language test offerings.