Language certificates
Language proficiency is a common entry requirement for every study abroad student, not just free movers. A valid language certificate demonstrates that you can comfortably follow courses in the institution’s teaching language. This guide helps you dig deeper into this universal prerequisite and its peculiarities.
Table of contents
What you need to know
A valid language certificate is a must for some prestigious institutions. Universities must be sure that prospective students can understand and express themselves in another language on highly specialized academic topics. That is not trivial, and a strong certification can lay the foundation between you and the hosting institution for a proficient study abroad semester as a free mover.
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)
But hey, I want to go to Australia! Why are you proposing a “European” framework of reference?
The “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)” is a standard framework developed by the Council of Europe that nowadays is utilized all over the world to measure the level of language proficiency. It distinguishes learners among three categories:
- Basic Users (A1, A2): They can communicate in simple, everyday situations with basic familiar phrases.
- Independent Users (B1, B2): They have the ability to handle more intermediately complex conversations and texts, including technical discussions.
- Proficient Users (C1, C2): They possess excellent fluency and accuracy in the language, suitable for every academic and professional setting.
Most universities require a B2 or C1 level for admission. It is an acceptable level for both the applicant and the hosting universities, and it could be considered a sweet spot between full proficiency and inadequate ability to follow courses in a foreign language.
Pro tip: if you are reading what is written on this site without many problems, you should already be at a B2/C1 level for the English language. Hence, you only need to take a test to certify your level and start your next free mover semester abroad!
Languages on wearefreemovers
The destinations’ academic offer on wearefreemovers is available in 5 languages: English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish. So, while using the University Finder, you can select universities’ courses by their language. This tool helps you match your language skills with the courses available at different institutions.
Most common certificates by language
For those five languages mentioned above, there are some prominent standardized tests accepted all over the world:
- English: TOEFL and IELTS are the two most recognized certificates worldwide. Both assess reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills.
- French: The DELF (up to B2) and DALF (C1 or C2), provided by the International Centre for French Studies, are the go-to choices for this language.
- German: Certifications from the Goethe Institut, Telc, TestDaF Institut, and DSH are widely accepted and aligned with CEFR levels.
- Portuguese: The CAPLE test, issued by the University of Lisbon and the Instituto Camões, is the most common Portuguese language proficiency test.
- Spanish: DELE diplomas, issued by the Instituto Cervantes, cover all CEFR levels and are recognized globally.
Conclusion and further guides
We hope this article clarifies your basic doubts about language certificates. Should you need further information on this topic, we have created some cool guides on how to prepare for language tests, the cost and availability of language tests, and alternatives to standardized language tests.
