Whether you're applying to university, moving abroad, or looking to demonstrate your language skills professionally, a recognized language certification can provide official proof of your proficiency.
Most major languages have one or more standardized examinations administered by educational institutions, governments, or internationally recognized organizations. Some award permanent diplomas, while others provide scores that remain valid for only a limited period.
This guide introduces the most widely recognized language certification exams around the world.
French
French has several internationally recognized certification systems, each designed for different purposes.
DELF
The Diplôme d'études en langue française (DELF) is awarded by the French Ministry of Education and certifies beginner through upper-intermediate French proficiency. Each DELF examination corresponds to a single proficiency level.
A DELF diploma is valid for life.
DALF
The Diplôme approfondi de langue française (DALF) covers advanced French proficiency and is intended for learners who have already achieved a high level of fluency.
Like DELF, DALF is awarded by the French Ministry of Education and never expires.
TCF
The Test de connaissance du français (TCF) measures your current level of French rather than awarding a permanent diploma.
It is widely accepted by universities and government agencies, particularly for immigration and academic admissions. TCF results are valid for two years.
TEF
The Test d'évaluation de français (TEF) is another official French proficiency examination, administered by the Paris Île-de-France Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
It is commonly used for Canadian immigration, university admissions, and professional certification. TEF results are valid for two years.
Spanish
DELE
The Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera (DELE) are Spain's official Spanish language diplomas, issued on behalf of the Spanish Ministry of Education.
Each examination certifies a single proficiency level and remains valid for life.
SIELE
The Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española (SIELE) measures Spanish proficiency across multiple levels with a single examination.
Unlike DELE, SIELE provides a score rather than a permanent diploma. Results are valid for five years.
Arabic
Arabic has several standardized proficiency examinations, including the Saudi government's Hamza Academic Test (aligned with the CEFR), the ALPT, and other systems. None currently has the same level of global dominance and uniform recognition as DELF/DALF, JLPT, or HSK.
Institutions therefore specify which examination or proficiency framework they accept, and recognition varies by country.
Chinese
HSK
The Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) is the standard proficiency examination for Mandarin Chinese.
It is recognized by universities, employers, and government organizations throughout China.
The newer HSK framework (sometimes called HSK 3.0) expands the older six-level system into nine levels grouped in three stages. Official materials now often refer simply to the new HSK. Implementation has been gradual, so check which version a university, employer, or test center requires before you register.
- Elementary (levels 1–3)
- Intermediate (levels 4–6)
- Advanced (levels 7–9)
Levels 1–6 remain separate examinations. Levels 7–9 are assessed in a single advanced exam that includes listening, reading, writing, translation, and speaking. The score determines which of those three advanced levels is awarded.
HSKK
The HSK Speaking Test (HSKK) remains a separate examination for spoken Mandarin at lower and intermediate levels.
Speaking is integrated directly into the Levels 7–9 examination. Confirm with your test center what is required for the level you need.
English
Several English proficiency examinations are recognized internationally, although each serves a slightly different purpose.
TOEFL
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is one of the world's most widely accepted academic English examinations.
It is primarily used for university admissions, particularly in North America. TOEFL scores are valid for two years.
IELTS
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is accepted by universities, employers, and immigration authorities around the world.
Two versions are available: Academic and General Training. IELTS recommends that results be accepted for two years, although individual organizations may accept older results.
Cambridge English Qualifications
Cambridge English Qualifications are awarded by Cambridge English and include examinations such as B2 First, C1 Advanced, and C2 Proficiency.
Cambridge English certificates do not expire, although individual institutions may require evidence obtained within a specified period.
TOEIC
The Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC) focuses on English used in professional and workplace environments.
It is widely used by international companies as evidence of practical business English skills. TOEIC scores are valid for two years.
PTE Academic
PTE Academic, developed by Pearson, is a computer-based English proficiency examination accepted by many universities and immigration authorities.
PTE Academic scores are generally valid for two years.
German
Goethe-Zertifikat
The Goethe-Zertifikat is the best-known German language certification worldwide.
Separate examinations are offered for different proficiency levels. Certificates remain valid indefinitely, although receiving institutions may require a more recent certificate.
TestDaF
The Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache (TestDaF) is intended primarily for students seeking admission to German universities.
It is recognized by higher education institutions throughout Germany, and the certificate is valid indefinitely.
telc Deutsch
telc Deutsch offers a range of German language certifications for general learners, workplaces, and regulated professions.
Italian
Italy recognizes several official certification systems.
CILS
The Certificazione di Italiano come Lingua Straniera (CILS) is administered by the University for Foreigners of Siena and is recognized internationally.
CELI
The Certificato di Conoscenza della Lingua Italiana (CELI) is administered by the University for Foreigners of Perugia and certifies Italian language proficiency across multiple levels.
PLIDA
The Progetto Lingua Italiana Dante Alighieri (PLIDA) is issued by the Società Dante Alighieri and is recognized by the Italian government.
Japanese
JLPT
The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is the standard certification for learners of Japanese.
The examination consists of five levels, from N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced), and is administered worldwide.
Unlike many European language examinations, the JLPT assesses vocabulary and grammar, reading, and listening. It does not directly test speaking or writing.
Korean
TOPIK
The Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) is South Korea's official Korean language examination.
It is commonly required for university admissions, scholarships, employment, and immigration.
Portuguese
CAPLE
The Centro de Avaliação e Certificação de Português Língua Estrangeira (CAPLE) administers Portugal's official Portuguese language certification examinations through the University of Lisbon's Faculty of Letters.
Celpe-Bras
The Certificado de Proficiência em Língua Portuguesa para Estrangeiros (Celpe-Bras) is Brazil's official Portuguese proficiency certificate.
It is used for university entry, postgraduate study, diploma validation, and other official purposes recognized by Brazilian institutions and government bodies.
Russian
TORFL
The Test of Russian as a Foreign Language (TORFL), also known by its Russian abbreviation ТРКИ, is Russia's official certification system for foreign learners.
It covers six proficiency levels and is recognized by universities, employers, and government institutions.
Which exam should you take?
The right certification depends on why you need one.
If you're applying to university, choose the examination accepted by your institution. If you're immigrating, follow the requirements published by the relevant government authority. For employment, check whether a particular certification is preferred in your profession or country.
Not every language learner needs a formal certification, but when official proof of proficiency is required, choosing a recognized examination is essential.
Before you go
Language certification exams provide internationally recognized evidence of your language ability, but they are designed for different purposes. Before registering for an exam, make sure it is accepted by the university, employer, or government agency that requires it.