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World Language Credit Program

Competency Credits

Many school districts in Washington now recognize the value of preparing students to be global citizens with the skills to communicate in English and other world languages. The World Language Credit Program is a way to earn high school credit for a language you already know.

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The nationally normed proficiency tests are used by businesses, government and the military for salary and job placement. They are most appropriate for older adolescents. Our current testing infrastructure is designed to test high school students, so middle school students are asked to wait until the fall of 9th grade to test.

Determine If You’re Eligible

Take a moment to think about your current language skills in the language that you wish to be tested in (not English). If you can answer “Yes, I can do this fairly easily” to each statement, then you will probably be able to earn at least 1-2 credits when you take the language test. If you can answer “Yes, I can do this very easily” to all of the statements, then you may be able to earn 3-4 credits when you get tested.

Listening

I can understand ideas on familiar topics expressed through phrases, short sentences, and frequently used expressions.

Reading

I can understand the main idea and some details in simple texts that contain familiar vocabulary.

Person-to-Person Communication

I can exchange information with another person about familiar tasks, topics and activities.

Spoken Production

I can use a series of phrases and sentences to provide basic information about familiar topics.

Writing

I can write simple descriptions and short messages and request or provide information on familiar topics.

How to register for your exam

Complete the Registration and Agreement document. Please see your counselor if you need assistance or have any questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I study?

The test is based on language proficiency. “what individuals can do with language in terms of speaking, writing, listening, and reading in real-world situations in a spontaneous and non-rehearsed context” – See more at: ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines 2012.

Although it is not possible to study for a language proficiency test in a traditional sense, you can practice the four skills and ask for feedback from educated native speakers in your community.

  • Reading: understanding current events websites and children’s stories
  • Writing: writing email, short informational articles and anecdotes about what you did in the past
  • Speaking: talking about your life as well as current events
  • Listening: podcasts or radio

Can I take a practice test?

Yes! You’ll find sample tests online at Avant Sample Tests. The Sample Tests show a brief overview of the testing interface and are not scored.

Do colleges recognize competency credits?

Most Washington Universities also accept these credits for entrance requirements. Be sure to check with the universities of interest to your student as soon as possible. More and more universities are also moving to proficiency-based testing for placement and testing.

Contact

Mike Weatherbie

Mike Weatherbie

Exec. Director of Educational Technology & State Assessment
Work: (425) 335-1500 ext. 1685