Language certificates

Just as the world community cannot agree on units of measure, weight, etc., there is no agreement on measures of language competency. Europe measures proficiency based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages; the US uses the ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages) standards. According to ACTFL, there are five levels of proficiency: Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, Superior, and Distinguished. The CEFR standards recognize proficiency on the A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2 levels.

Most authorities recognize four language skills: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing. On the AP language exams, Speaking and Writing are further subdivided into Interpersonal Speaking, Presentational Speaking, and Interpersonal Writing and Presentational Writing. Moreover, the AP language exams are “Language and Culture.” The NGE tests Listening Comprehension and Reading Comprehension. Scores on the AP and NGE exams are based on total performance; on the Deutsche Sprachdiplom exams, students need to pass all four skills on the appropriate level to earn the given diploma.

For more information on these exams, become a member of Forum Deutsch here. If you are already a member, go to your account to get the information!

This website gives you more information on German exams given by the Goethe-Institut