Language Tester Abroad Guide
Language testers conduct evaluations of test takers on their proficiency level in foreign languages.
This job has a somewhat low demand and requires considerable time and effort to succeed.
Demand
- Somewhat Low Demand
Experience & Degree
- Basic Understanding Required
- No Degree Required
- Certification Preferred
Citizenship
- Some Restrictions
This job is somewhat reliable with reasonable pay.
Pay Range
- Hourly: $17-$40/hr.
Reliability
- Somewhat Reliable
Housing
- Room and Board Not Provided
This job’s schedule is somewhat flexible but you’ll likely be stuck in one region of the world unless you’re a polyglot.
Location
- Little Flexibility
Schedule
- Somewhat Flexible
Language
- Fluency in English and Local Language
Who can be a Language Tester Abroad?
Anyone with a high level proficiency (near-native fluency or more) in a world language, as well as a working proficiency in English, can be a language tester abroad. Different companies and countries will require or recommend different certifications or test scores on top of that.
What are the responsibilities of a Language Tester Abroad?
The main function of a language tester is to evaluate a test taker’s skills in a particular language, but many other tasks can go into this.
Key Responsibilities
- Translation or localization of communications, functions, and features.
- Conduct tests in person, via video chat, or telephone.
- Provide information about the test taker’s performance to the examiner.
- Choose/prepare test materials.
- Create and test reading kits.
- Document and report any test defects.
What’s the typical schedule for a Language Tester Abroad?
The schedule for a language tester will vary depending on the institution they conduct tests for. It is possible that testing might be seasonal in one place, or year-round in another. The length of the test also depends on the type of test administered. It is difficult to hammer down a concrete schedule prediction.
Income Reliability
In general, language testing abroad is reliable.
Typical Job Duration
Language testing abroad can be short-term or long-term.
Estimated Hours Per Week
It’s estimated that you can work up to full time, 40 hours per week, as a Language Tester abroad.
Room & Board
Language testing abroad doesn’t typically provide room & board.
Language Tester Abroad – Country Map
The Best Places to be a Language Tester Abroad
Most major countries throughout the world have opportunities for those looking to be a language tester abroad. Here are the five best places to be a language tester abroad.
- South Korea
- Cuba
- Japan
- China
- Switzerland
Become fluent in your chosen foreign language(s).
To become a language tester, you’ll have to be fluent in the languages you will be testing others on. It is recommended–if not required–that you score a 4 or above on the ILR proficiency scale. It is also important that you have a level 2 or higher proficiency in English, even if this is not the language you’ll be conducting tests on. You can also accomplish this by undergoing an accredited foreign language education program, which may ultimately help you land a language testing job.
Create your resume/CV.
You’ll want to include your languages and the level of proficiency on your resume, as well as any relevant language teaching experience–perhaps you were a tutor or a teacher’s assistant in foreign language classes. If so, include this information. It may also be beneficial to take language testing positions within your own country prior to seeking employment abroad to garner more experience.
Research.
Look around online for open language testing positions abroad–make sure the company or contractor you work with is seeking testers proficient in languages that you are proficient in. Also ensure that the position is located somewhere you are interested in traveling to and living in, as well as able to communicate there.
Apply.
Once you are educated in the necessary/preferred foreign languages, have a readable and comprehensive resume, and an understanding of the positions you’re hoping to get–send in your application!
Acquire necessary documentation.
Once you are offered a position, begin the necessary research and paperwork to get the necessary work visa so you can work legally abroad. Discuss with your new employer any aid or compensation in this task.
How do you get a foreign language certificate?
There are varying certification programs depending on what you want to do with your foreign language abilities. For example, if you want to be a translator, you’ll have to pass the ATA certification exam, which is a difficult, three-hour long test. You can also take accredited classes in foreign languages to become certified.
What are language proficiency tests?
Language proficiency tests evaluate how well a person can command the use of a foreign language in unscripted, real life situations.
How can I test my English language skills?
There are many popular tests you can take such as the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or the IELTS (International English Language Testing System).
What are the types of language testing?
There are usually five types of language tests: placement tests, diagnostic tests, achievement tests, proficiency tests, and aptitude tests.
How much does TEFL certification cost?
You know you need it, but how much does TEFL certification cost? Prices vary depending on some key factors, but expect to pay about $200 for very minimal online certification, and closer to $400-500 USD for online certification of enough hours to qualify for most TEFL jobs (at least 100).
Does duolingo give you a certificate?
No, Duolingo is great for casually learning a new language, but you do not receive a certification once the learning course is complete.
What are the different levels of language proficiency?
There are a few ways to score language proficiency. ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines has ten levels: novice, intermediate, advanced, and superior. Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced are all split into low, mid, and high as well. Additionally, ILR proficiency levels recognize five categories: 0 (No Proficiency), 1 (Elementary Proficiency), 2 (Limited Working Proficiency), 3 (Professional Working Proficiency), 4 (Full Professional Proficiency), 5 (Native/Bilingual Proficiency).
How can I pass a language test?
Study! Make sure you are prepared for the format of the test, practice the tasks you know that you’ll be tested on, and practice taking the test in a timed manner.
What is English level?
English levels are accepted standards for evaluating and labeling a person’s english language proficiency.
What is pre English test?
A Preliminary English Test is a program in Cambridge English. It will tell the taker what level of proficiency they have in english.