When you register, you will choose the language in which you wish to test. Different languages use different tests.
If you plan to test in Arabic, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin (Simplified or Traditional), Polish, Portuguese (Brazilian), Russian or Spanish, you will take the online Standards-based Measurement of Proficiency (STAMP 4S) offered through Avant Assessment. Try out a sample test to have an idea of the format. Students usually complete the STAMP test in about 2 to 3 hours, though some students will take more or less time. The test is not timed.
If your testing language is Amharic, Armenian, Chin (Hakha), Chuukese Czech, Filipino (Tagalog), Haitian-Creole, Hawaiian, Hmong, Ilocano, Kannada, Marathi, Marshallese, Samoan, Somali Maay Maay, Somali Maxaa, Tamil, Telugu, Turkish, Urdu, Vietnamese, or Yup'ik you will take the World Speak online test. For more information and sample tests, check out the Avant Assessment World Speak webpage.
Students requesting to test in most languages for which a STAMP or WorldSpeak test are not available will take the ALTA Writing Skills Assessment offered through ALTA Language Services on the main testing day. Students who score at level IRL 0+ or higher on the writing assessment will take the Speaking and Listening Assessment in a live phone interview arranged at a later date. Students must exhibit the skills equivalent to a level 4 or better on ALTA's 12-point Writing Performance Levels to score at IRL 0+ or higher and move on to the Speaking and Listening Assessment.
What if my language is not available in one of the above tests?
Indicate your language preference when you register. It is very likely there is a test available that can be scheduled for you. If there is not one available, custom tests in Writing and Speaking are offered through the Washington Association for Language Teaching (WAFLT). Note that some custom tests may require more time to create, and you may have to test at a later date. We will notify you immediately if this is the case.
Have you already taken a Washington State OSPI approved World Language test?
If you have already tested for proficiency in a World Language in another Washington State school district, please complete the Request for Approval of Credit for Proficiency in a World Language/Seal of Biliteracy (2409F) for Northshore School District. Submit this form with a copy of your test results and official documentation to your school counselor.