It’s one thing to say you speak a language; defining your foreign language level is another.

When judging your foreign language level, you probably resort to nuanced self-evaluations; such as “I get by” or “I speak fairly fluently.” If you are trying to prove your language skills for professional purposes, however, being able to define and explain your level can be a real plus.

In the US, one of the language level systems of reference is the ILR, or Interagency Language Round Table scale. Developed by the organization of the same name, the ILR index is used by the US government, NGOs, and for academic purposes. It defines levels from O (no proficiency) to 5 (native or bilingual proficiency.)

Rather curiously, there is no official “ILR test.” But the US Foreign Service Institute, universities, and other organizations have developed language exams based on it.

If you are interested in having a rough idea of your language proficiency, the ILR offers self-evaluations in speaking, reading and listening. These tools consist of checklists that specify what you can (or can’t…) do in a foreign language. Some examples are:

· I can understand simple instructions, such as in very straightforward street directions (Level 1, Reading)

· I rarely, if ever, have to ask speakers to paraphrase or explain what they have said. (Level 3, Listening)

· My vocabulary is extensive and precise, allowing me to consistently convey complex ideas and details. ( Level 5, Speaking)

Even if you don’t care to estimate a specific level for your foreign language capabilities, these assessments will definitely help you define and emphasize your skills in a job interview.

Betty Carlson

See Also

• Language Translation, Inc.
  A leading language translation and interpretation service provider for more than 20 years.