5 foreign language tests your youngster may need to sit for

Knowing a foreign language is always beneficial, be it for applying to universities abroad or looking for jobs. Apart from this, picking up a foreign language opens up parallel pathways of perspective and makes an individual more open to new ideas. When it comes to learning languages, starting early is always better because the brain is more malleable to new ideas. Encouraging your school kid to pick up a different language at a young age will only add to his skill set. Formal recognition of these language skills can be obtained through a few language tests. Here is a low-down on five crucial language tests your kid may need to take.  

DELF/DALF 
These are French language proficiency tests. On qualifying them successfully, the French Ministry of Education awards the DELF/DALF diplomas. The DELF or ‘Diplôme d’études en langue française’ is for beginner to intermediate level candidates whereas the DALF or ‘Diplôme approfondi de langue française’ is for advanced level candidates. Alliance Française conducts these exams in India. These exams test a candidate’s communication skills in talking, listening, speaking and writing. These diplomas are recognised all over the world. They are also valid for lifetime. This is a useful diploma to have while applying to universities in France.  

Zertifikat Deutsch (ZD) 
This is an exam used to ascertain an individual’s proficiency in German language. There are 6 varying levels of this examination which can be attempted based on proficiency level- A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2. The last two are for the advanced level. In India, the Max Mueller Bhavan is responsible for conducting this exam. After clearing these tests, one is eligible to study at a German university. Its validity is two years only, which means it will have to be taken every two years if proof of German proficiency is required. 

DELE Spanish Diploma 
Spain’s Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport grants these diplomas for individuals competent in Spanish. Like most other foreign language exams, it is divided into six categories- from beginners all the way up to advanced. It is recognised worldwide and is valid for a lifetime. A candidate has to be 16 years old to take them. However, there are separate versions of the exams for younger children too. The results of these exams are recognised by both public and private educational institutions in Spain. 

JLPT 
The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test is a test which assesses an individual’s ability to speak and comprehend Japanese. The J.F. (Japan Foundation) is tasked with organising this test outside of Japan. Qualifying this test is a non-negotiable requirement to study in most Japanese universities. One gets extra points after clearing this exam for the Japanese immigration process. Centres conducting this exam are located in most major cities around India. 

TOPIK 
The TOPIK, or the Test of Proficiency in Korean is test which assesses a non-native’s Korean language proficiency. This test has three levels- beginners, intermediate and advanced. This test is conducted twice a year in India across five centres in Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Jharkhand and Manipur. It is required for applying to universities in Korea. The South Korean government also has numerous scholarships for international students, and this certification is required to apply for them.