The CBE recognizes that international language credentialing may be of interest to some students and families who wish to work or study internationally.
Language credentialing is an evaluation of language competency for second language speakers based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). It is a standardized assessment of language proficiency recognized internationally that is administered by partner organizations.
Upon successful completion at each level students receive a diploma. Four areas of communication: oral production, written production, listening comprehension and written comprehension are assessed.
Benefits of Language Credentialing
Language credentialing is for you if you want to:
- work in other countries
- measure and certify your skills on a global scale
- have a language diploma valid throughout the world
- gain new responsibilities to enhance your career
- enhance your resume
- study at a university in another language
- have your second language abilities recognized for professional or personal purposes
Using your Language Credentials
Language credentialing can be used in a variety of contexts. Some examples include:
- An employee can present credentials to indicate language proficiency
- An employer can request language credentials in order to ensure a certain level of efficiency
- A parent can use language credentialing to assess the progress and/or the proficiency level of their child
- A student may use it to establish language proficiency at a university where the language of instruction is different from their first language
- A student may use it to establish the next step in their language learning
Difference between language credentialing and IB and AP courses
IB and AP courses are specifically used for university entrance purposes at many universities. They are not used for employment purposes, to establish a proficiency level recognized internationally, or to establish the next level.
Exam Fees
The cost of the exam depends on the language and the level. Please refer to the specific language for further information.
University Requirement
Different countries have different regulations regarding language credentialing for university entrance. In addition, many universities are now accepting language credentialing (generally at the B2 level) as a way for students to meet the language requirement. As each university is different, it is advisable to check with the institution.
Validity
Language credentials are valid for life, much like a university degree.
Completion
Successful candidates will receive a letter and a diploma indicating their results from the relevant partner organization.
Language Credentialing Exams
DELF (French)
The Diplôme d'études en langue française (DELF) are official language exams of the government of France. They are set and regulated by France Éducation International (FEI) and administered through local DELF centres worldwide. The Calgary Board of Education is an accredited DELF centre and organises DELF exam sittings for its students.
CBE currently offers the A1 DELF exam in most French Immersion elementary schools to students in the year prior to the transition to middle school. Please contact the office at your child's French Immersion elementary school for details on scheduling and availability. CBE also offers the B2 DELF exam to Grade 12 French immersion students in fall and spring, for a fee. Please contact the French Immersion Learning Leader at your child's high school for more details.
On rare occasions, CBE high school students from non-French Immersion programs may apply to write the B2 exam. Such students require an endorsement from their high school's French teacher. Teachers approached to provide such an endorsement should contact the CBE's Languages department to proceed prior to October 1 (fall) or March 1 (spring). Exam candidates can find exam resources and additional information on the Canadian DELF-DALF website and on the international DELF exam website.
DELE (Spanish)
The DELE, or Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera, is an internationally recognized exam that measures how well someone speaks and understands Spanish. It certifies a person's level of Spanish fluency, whether they are beginners or advanced speakers. This exam is useful for students who want to demonstrate their Spanish skills for academic purposes, work, or travel.
The DELE exam is available at any Instituto Cervantes location, including their Calgary office at the University of Calgary. CBE students who are enrolled in the Spanish bilingual program and attend Crescent Heights ISA school are eligible to take the exam through CBE.
Sprachdiplom (German)
The Deutsches Sprachdiplom (DSD) is a German language proficiency exam offered by the German Conference of Ministers of Education. It has two levels:
- Stufe I (Level I) – This corresponds to a B1 level of German proficiency, which is suitable for attending a preparatory course at a German university.
- Stufe II (Level II) – This corresponds to a B2/C1 level of German proficiency, which is considered enough to directly study at a German university.
The DSD exam helps students demonstrate their German language skills and opens up opportunities for further studies in Germany.
Any families interested in having their child write the DSD exam can do so through the Calgary German Language School Society.
HSK & YCT (Chinese - Mandarin)
The Youth Chinese Test (YCT), an international standardized test for Chinese language proficiency, assesses elementary and junior high school students' abilities to use Chinese as a second language in their daily and academic life. The YCT is often used by schools and institutions to track progress in learning Chinese.
The HSK (HanyuShuiping Kaoshi | Chinese Proficiency Test) is a standardized test for non-native speakers of Chinese that assesses their proficiency in the Chinese language. It is widely used in China and around the world for academic, professional, and personal purposes. It is often required for admission to Chinese universities, applying for Chinese scholarships, or for job applications in Chinese-speaking environments.
The HSK and YCT exams are administered through the Department of Linguistics, Languages and Cultures at the University of Calgary. CBE students who are enrolled in the Chinese (Mandarin) bilingual program are eligible to take the exam through CBE.
