Language Testing

For language testing, Northwest University recommends the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL), which offers exam options in over one hundred different languages. Depending on the language skills and credit needs of the student, a Written Proficiency Test (WPT) and/or an Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) are available.

Northwest University will accept a total maximum of 12 foreign language credits through testing. OPI credits can only be applied as elective credits. Three WPT credits can be applied toward the Core Curriculum Humanities requirement and any additional count as elective credits.

The table below summarizes how credits can be earned based on the Official ACTFL Ratings:

Official ACTFL Rating

World Languages

Official OPI / OPIc

Official WPT
Novice High / Intermediate Low

3 credits

3 credits
Intermediate Mid

6 credits

6 credits
Intermediate High / Advanced Low

6 credits

7 credits
Advanced Mid

6 credits

9 credits
Advanced High / Superior

6 credits

12 credits
The 10 ACTFL language proficiency ratings are: Superior, Advanced High, Advanced Mid, Advanced Low, Intermediate High, Intermediate Mid, Intermediate Low, Novice High, Novice Mid, and Novice Low.  

Visit www.languagetesting.com to schedule an exam. Register with Northwest University as your institution so that we have access to your test results. More information is also available in the ACTFL Brochure and exam pricing is available in the ACTFL Price List.