World Language Proficiency Test

All students are eligible to earn WLCbC.  However, student should be fluent in language and can demonstrate an understanding in these four domains of Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.

All pathways allow a student to earn WLCbC.

Students can earn two types of credit: Class (C) and Competency-based (CbC) Class credit is earned when a student physically or virtually attends class and successfully completes the course to the state’s learning standards. (WAC 180-51-050) Competency-based credit is awarded when a student earned a pre-determined proficiency level on a nationally- or internationally recognized, OSPI approved assessment.

Students of the Class of 2021 and beyond must have two (2) credits in the same World Language or a personalized pathway in order to graduate. For admission to Washington’s public universities, students must meet College Academic Distribution Requirements (CADRs) with two (2) years in the same language. 2023–24 World Language Competency-based Credit Guidance 4

What model policies or procedures exist? Puyallup School District will send a certificate to all students who are proficient and place a mark on their transcript.

All languages can earn WLCbC, including Classical (Latin, Sanskrit, Ancient Greek), Tribal, Indigenous, and Native languages, and American Sign Language. However, coding and programming languages do not count toward World Language CbC and some languages may not be available.

Washington students can earn between one (1) and four (4) competency-based World Language credits depending on their assessed language proficiency. These credits are treated the same as class credits and qualify students for graduation, scholarships, grants, and any other credit-based opportunities. Districts can find the exact score/proficiency credit chart for every approved test on the Assessment Options website.

Students can test at any time for language proficiency, but most assess between grades 9 and 12 to have the WLCbC appear on their transcript. OSPI recommends that students take proficiency exams early in their high school career to allow for those credits to appear on their transcript. This ensures the student receives credit if there are any changes, like moving to a new district. For students coming out of elementary dual or heritage language programs, OSPI recommends having them evaluated at the end of grade 8. While there is no strict reason that students could not assess in grade 8, the parents, counselors, and data coordinators must consider a student’s maturity level and be diligent to make sure any earned credits appear on the student’s high school transcript.

Yes!

WLCbC are recognized in Washington as credits earned through competency testing, supported by WAC 180-51-050 and WAC 392-410-340. OSPI cannot guarantee colleges and universities outside Washington will honor the credits. Families need to contact admissions offices to confirm. 

Due to costs and efforts associated with proficiency testing, our district will determine if students are eligible in language skills to ensure enough proficiency to earn credit.