If you wish to claim serious proficiency in Spanish (or another language) for a job, or just for your own peace of mind, it is important that you be formally tested and awarded a proficiency rating based on one of the accepted proficiency standards (see our chart for proficiency standards).  While "informal" assessment of language proficiency is still common, often performed by "assessors" who have less knowledge of the language in question than the "assessee", we believe that objective standards and proof of having met them will become increasingly common.  While there is no way of quantifying the damage done by unqualified people being employed as "interpreters" or "translators", we know of numerous cases where the results were ridiculous, in some instances potentially tragic.  In addition to being able to objectively demonstrate your own claimed language knowledge, it is important--and difficult--to not fall into the trap of accepting language proficiency claims based on family background, classes taken, etc.  In the interest of full disclosure, these cautions apply to the Platiquemos program as much as to any other.  Having completed all eight levels of the program is no guarantee that the person can actually function at the ACTFL "superior" or FSI 3 level; although a diligent student who has completed the program will assuredly have significant demonstrable proficiency.  There are many variables involved in achieving high levels of language proficiency, and in any given case the only way to ensure a fair an objective rating is through a test conducted by reputable testers.

Since our mission is to help people learn Spanish, for us to do proficiency testing--other than informally for purposes of advisement about further study--would raise questions of conflict of interest.  Unfortunately, original FSI testing is only available if the taxpayers are paying--that is, only available to certain Government employees.  The most reputable source of proficiency testing available in the private sector is Language Testing International, the exclusive licensee of the American Council on the teaching of Foreign Languages to award proficiency ratings based on the ACTFL scale.  The oral test (called an Oral Proficiency Interview) can be performed by telephone.   (There is a cost, but it is reasonable.)  They also offer written tests.  An ACTFL proficiency rating is awarded and documented for test takers.  We have no connection of any kind with Language Testing International; we just believe that people who really do speak a foreign language should have the support of documented proficiency ratings to distinguish them from the crowd of "self-assessed" language speakers.

If you wish to pursue the possibility of having your proficiency in Spanish (or any of dozens of other languages) tested and certified, click here.  If the results of your test show that you aren't at the proficiency level you need or would like to be, we'd be happy to work with you to design a program to advance you toward your ultimate goal.

  Information about ACTFL testing, including cost and a description of
  the test is here.