The first step in becoming a certified world language teacher is finding a reputable certification testing solution. Certifying your language skills will help you advance your career using your talents in language teaching. 

Many states accept ACTFL language proficiency assessments for some component of their teacher certification process. These states have established a formal testing protocol with Language Testing International® (LTI) to assess teacher candidates' speaking and writing proficiency. Individual states establish their own required minimum levels of proficiency. If you are a teacher candidate and want more information, or want to schedule a language proficiency test, then continue reading to learn more and discover your next steps. 

Why Aspiring World Language Teachers Should Complete an ACTFL Certification

Teachers of world languages must undergo the proper testing to prove their proficiency in their language of focus. Certification shows that teachers have demonstrated their abilities through a valid and reliable measure and that academic institutions can trust them to perform at a high level for their needs. And, since its founding in 1967, ACTFL has been a leader in proficiency testing for teachers of world languages. ACTFL is now one of the most recognized bodies for international language testing and certification for teachers, with 27 states accepting ACTFL assessments for teacher certification. 

As an aspiring world language teacher, completing an ACTFL proficiency test may be one of the best choices you can make for your career trajectory. When you pursue certification, employers will recognize your tenacity and willingness to do what it takes to provide quality education. And once you have your certification, you'll show any potential employers that you possess the skills needed for success with the recognized credentials associated with ACTFL tests. 

Many academic organizations require their employees to show a valid proof of language proficiency in order to work for them. As some of the world's most highly recognized language proficiency tests, ACTFL assessments are the best solution available for your testing needs on your journey to becoming a world language teacher. 

The Teacher Certification Process and ACTFL Assessments

The process of obtaining your ACTFL language proficiency certification is easy through LTI, the exclusive provider of ACTFL assessments. LTI has an easy-to-navigate website that simplifies the process of finding the test that applies to you. 

In order to schedule a test, you'll first select your language of focus. Then you'll choose the certification type that meets your needs. After selecting the correct state and the name of the institution to which your test scores should be sent, you'll select a test, which will ensure you're taking an assessment that is recognized by your state or program. If you are not currently associated with an institution, you can select the option to test as an independent candidate. 

Note that language assessment is just one of the requirements for teacher certification, and every state has its own rules. Each state sets the minimum level of proficiency that a teacher candidate must meet to obtain their certification. There are currently 27 states that accept ACTFL assessments as part of the process of achieving teacher certification. 

 

Skills Tested by ACTFL Assessments

ACTFL assessments focus on a specific language proficiency skill, depending on the test you choose. Here are the main skill areas available that may be a part of your teacher certification process, depending on your state's requirements or those of any organization through which you might be seeking employment of other opportunities:

Speaking: Speaking is a fundamental component of language proficiency. Teachers of second languages must be able to convey thoughts and instructions through verbal dialogue, making speaking an essential skill in the classroom. You can test your second language speaking proficiency through the ACTFL Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) or fully computer-based Oral Proficiency Interview — computer (OPIc). 
Writing: Writing is a powerful skill to have in any world language. Often, teaching world languages requires a writing component. Plus, you may need to write to students, parents, clients, or government officials, depending on your specific career path. You can test your world language writing proficiency with the ACTFL Writing Proficiency Test (WPT) in your language of focus. 
Listening: To communicate and teach well, one must know how to listen well. Organizations and institutions across industries strive to have employees who can communicate accurately in world languages, and being able to skillfully listen is the first step. You can test your world language listening proficiency with the ACTFL Listening Proficiency Test (LTP) in your chosen language. 
Reading: Having reading skills in a second language is a valuable asset to an organization and your career as a world language teacher. Reading opens up a whole new world when it comes to understanding the people and culture of a location. You can test your world language reading proficiency in your chosen language with the ACTFL Reading Proficiency Test (RPT). 

Find World Language Assessment Solutions Through LTI

LTI has been a leader in language proficiency testing since its founding in 1992. The ACTFL tests we deliver cover over 120 languages in over 60 countries. We offer tests for individuals as well as tests for organizations, so you're sure to find the assessment that meets your needs. We also make establishing your credentials easy with options for digital badges for language proficiency.

We invite you to schedule a test to take the next step on your journey toward certification. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my language proficiency test online?

Yes, ACTFL assessments can be taken online in a secure, proctored environment. We offer multiple types of tests for you to meet your teacher certification requirements. Most states require the OPI/OPIc and WPT for teacher certification. Learn more about our test offerings and their formats.

Which states accept ACTFL assessments for teacher certification?

More than half of the US states accept ACTFL assessments for teacher certification, though each state sets its own minimum proficiency requirements.

Which ACTFL proficiency level do I need to achieve to get certified as a language teacher? 

ACTFL proficiency level requirements vary by state and language. Most states require a minimum of Intermediate High or Advanced Low. Check your state's specific requirements to see what level you need to achieve.

How long are ACTFL test scores valid?

ACTFL test scores and certificates are valid for two years. Individual states might accept certificates that are older than two years, so check your specific state's teacher certification requirements to understand how long your scores will be valid.