Foreign language certificates

How to certify your foreign language skills to get a job abroad

Talking to some of our students before a workshop, it became clear - what had been a trend for a long time anyway - that many of them go to university primarily to work in the same profession abroad, but for much more money.

This being the case, it is our opinion, here at the Counseling and Career Guidance Center of the University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, that there is a need for an article to inform, or perhaps even to remind, how those students who are aiming at this should prepare themselves.

However, we will only deal here with one part of the training, namely that which concerns the removal of the language barrier between the employer and the new medical professional employed in any of the EU countries. Of course, professional training comes first (being among the best in all respects); at the same time, being good speakers of the language of the country in which we plan to work is again a top priority. I can be the best of the best, but how am I going to understand what it's all about, how am I going to respond to requests, and how am I going to make myself useful if I don't understand what others are saying? It would be worth adding here, just for awareness of the importance, that it's not enough to just get by, it's necessary to be roughly equal if not on equal footing with both the other colleagues I interact with in my job and my clients/patients. Otherwise I will not be maximally effective, I will not be able to give (show) as much as I know.

A first recommendation would be to take language learning seriously. Once in college, that's all part of the curriculum, and they are (or should be) centered on acquiring as many specialized terms as possible, thus facilitating a smooth transition to actually working in professional environments abroad and an easy assimilation of specialized foreign literature (which is mandatory to study). Then, any form of additional language training should not be neglected. From going and studying abroad on a scholarship, taking advantage of the opportunity to interact professionally with native speakers, to reading a lot in the foreign language you are interested in (preferably specialist literature to build up your vocabulary) or additional paid training: private tutoring, online courses, etc.

For European Union member countries, only one type of CV is accepted for employment, i.e. the European CV. You can find on Centrul de Consiliere şi Orientare Profesională al UMF din Craiova templates and guidelines for completion, or you can even sign up for workshops on the subject here too. In fact, the whole internet is full of practical advice on how to build and write a CV. An important tip here is to build a good CV in your mother tongue and then translate it into your target language. It can be a plus when hiring to give the employer a CV in their language. While for some employers this is even a prerequisite to get through the first selection.

Speaking of CVs, besides all the important information about what schools, courses, training you have attended, how you performed at school, with what results and all the professional stuff, as you probably know, there is a sub-chapter on "Personal skills and competences", i.e. "Foreign languages". Here, an international body called (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages - CEFR) says that foreign language learners can be divided into three broad categories (A - beginner, B - intermediate, C - advanced), which in turn can be divided into two further categories. There are six categories in total. This is what those letter and number grades refer to, which should appear for each foreign language on your CV. These are A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and finally C2 and are awarded for each of the three branches: understanding, writing and speaking in the foreign language concerned

The CEFR clearly describes what a student should be able to do in listening (listening and reading), speaking (conversation and discourse) and writing at each level. Here it is:

Sursa: ® https://europass.cedefop.europa.eu/ro/home ® http://europass.cedefop.europa.eu/ro/resources/european-language-levels-cefr
Understanding	Listening	A1 - I can understand familiar expressions and very simple sentences relating to myself, family and concrete circumstances when spoken slowly and clearly.
		A2 - I can understand commonly used expressions and words on topics of immediate relevance to me personally (e.g. simple information about me and my family, shopping, my local area, my job). I can understand the main points of short, simple and clear announcements and messages.
		B1 - I can understand the main points in clear standard speech on familiar topics related to work, school, leisure, etc. I can understand the main idea of many radio or TV programmes on topical subjects of personal or professional interest if presented in a relatively clear and slow manner.
		B2 - I can understand fairly long lectures and speeches and even follow a complex argument if the subject is relatively familiar to me. I can understand most TV news and current affairs programmes. I can understand most films in standard language.
		C1 - I can understand a long speech, even if it is not clearly structured and the connections are only implicit and not explicitly signalled. I can understand television programmes and films without much effort.
		C2 - I have no difficulty in understanding spoken language, whether it is in face-to-face communication or in radio or TV broadcasts, even if the pace is the fast pace of native speakers, provided I have time to familiarise myself with a certain accent.
	Reading	A1 - I can understand familiar names, words and very simple sentences, for example from advertisements, posters or catalogues.
		A2 - I can read very short and simple texts. I can find some predictable information in everyday material (e.g. advertisements, leaflets, menus, timetables) and understand short simple personal letters.
		B1 - I can understand texts written mainly in everyday or professional language. I can understand descriptions of events, expressions of feelings and greetings in personal letters.
		B2 - I can read articles and reports on contemporary issues, in which the authors adopt certain attitudes and points of view. I can understand contemporary literary prose.
		C1 - I can understand long and complex factual and literary texts, noting stylistic differences. I can understand specialised articles and long technical instructions, even if they do not relate to my field.
		C2 - I can easily read any kind of text, even if it is abstract or complex in terms of language or structure, for example, textbooks, specialised articles and literary works.

Sursa: ® https://europass.cedefop.europa.eu/ro/home ® http://europass.cedefop.europa.eu/ro/resources/european-language-levels-cefr
Speaking	Take part in Conversation	A1 - I can communicate in a simple conversation, provided the other person is willing to repeat or rephrase their sentences at a slower pace and help me formulate what I am trying to say. I can formulate simple questions on familiar topics or topics of immediate need and answer such questions.
		A2 - I can communicate in simple and routine situations involving a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar topics and activities. I can take part in very short discussions, even if I do not generally understand enough to hold a conversation.
		B1 - I can cope with most situations that may arise during a trip through a region where the language is spoken. I can take part without prior preparation in a conversation on familiar, personal or everyday topics (e.g. family, leisure, travel, work and current affairs).
		B2 - I can communicate with a degree of spontaneity and fluency that makes it possible to participate normally in conversation with native speakers. I can participate actively in a conversation in familiar situations, expressing and supporting my opinions.
		C1 - I can express myself fluently and spontaneously, without having to search for my words too visibly. I can use language flexibly and effectively in social and professional situations. I can formulate my ideas and points of view precisely and connect my speech well with those of my interlocutors.
		C2 - I can participate effortlessly in any conversation or discussion and am familiar with idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms. I can express myself fluently and express finer shades of meaning precisely. In case of difficulty, I can skilfully rephrase and restructure my lines so that the difficulty is not apparent.
	Oral speech	A1 - I can use simple phrases and sentences to describe where I live and the people I know.
		A2 - I can use a range of phrases and sentences to give a simple description of my family and other people, living conditions, studies and my present or recent professional activity.
		B1 - I can link expressions and express myself coherently in a simple way to describe experiences and events, my dreams, hopes and goals. I can briefly argue and explain my opinions and plans. I can tell a story or relate the plot of a book or film and express my reactions.
		B2 - I can present clear and detailed descriptions on a wide range of topics related to my field of interest. I can develop a point of view on a topical issue, showing the advantages and disadvantages of different options.
		C1 - I can present clear and detailed descriptions on complex topics, integrating sub-themes, developing points and ending my speech with an appropriate conclusion.
		C2 - I can present a description or argument clearly and fluently, in a style adapted to the context; with an effective logical structure that helps the listener grasp and retain the significant points.

Sursa: ® https://europass.cedefop.europa.eu/ro/home ® http://europass.cedefop.europa.eu/ro/resources/european-language-levels-cefr
Writing	A1 - I can write a short, simple postcard, for example, with greetings from my holiday. I can fill in forms with personal details, e.g. my name, nationality and address on a hotel form.
	A2 - I can write short and simple messages. I can write a very simple personal letter, for example, a thank you letter.
	B1 - I can write a simple and coherent text on familiar or personal topics. I can write personal letters describing experiences and impressions.
	B2 - I can write clear and detailed texts on a wide range of topics related to my field of interest. I can write an essay or report, conveying information or arguing for or against a point of view. I can write letters outlining the meaning I personally attribute to events or experiences.
	C1 - I can express myself through clear, well-structured texts, developing my points of view. I can deal with complex subjects in a letter, essay or report, highlighting points I consider important. I can select a style appropriate to the recipient.
	C2 - I can write clear, fluent texts, stylistically adapted to the context. I can write complex letters, reports or articles with a clear logical structure that helps the reader to grasp and retain significant points. I can write summaries or reviews of scholarly or literary works.

On specialised websites and other sites (e.g. even on wikipedia.org - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_European_Framework_of_Reference_for_Languages) you can find complete information on many more languages than the common ones (English, French, German, Spanish, Italian), information that includes an indicative number of hours needed to prepare each level, but also equivalences between possible certificates on different continents, or between different tests taken for the same foreign language.

But what are the accepted tests? Well, let's take them one by one:

1. For ENGLISH we have most of the variants.

Cambridge English (http://www.cambridgeenglish.org/) is a department of Cambridge University. Also known as ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages). They offer certificates recognised all over the world by thousands of employers, universities and ministries as proof of English language ability.

IELTS - International English Language Testing System - is recognised by universities and employers in several countries, including Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK and the USA. It is also recognised by various professional bodies, immigration authorities and other government agencies.
CPE - Cambridge Proficiency English - is the hardest of all English tests. They say that if you pass it, you have such good English that you could teach others. Your knowledge of English at this level will be good enough to study successfully at any British university.
CAE - Cambridge Advanced English - If you can communicate confidently in English on work or study matters, then this test is most likely for you.
FCE - First Cambridge English - The first and most important English language certificate.
PET - Preliminary English Test - This test is aimed at those who think they have an average knowledge of English. It ensures that you know English to a level at which you can do well on holiday in any of the English-speaking countries.
KET - Key English Test - It is the easiest of all Cambridge exams. It's a test that helps you see if you've made a good start to your studies, if they're going well and if you've managed to master the basics.
Michigan - Cambridge Michigan Tests - It offers testing for two levels: upper intermediate (B2) through the ECCE (Examination for the Certificate of Competency in English) and advanced (C2) through the ECPE (Examination for the Certificate of Proficiency in English). Please note: the language used here is American English.
BEC - Business English Certificate - It is an individual test which, as the name suggests, focuses on business-specific English language.
TOEFL^® - Test Of English as Foreign Language - An essential test for entry to US universities that uses academic language. Measures the ability of non-native English speakers to use and understand American English as it is used in American colleges and universities. Many government agencies, scholarship programs, etc. use TOEFL® scores to determine proficiency in American English.
TOEIC^® - Test of English for International Communication - It is a test made up of questions inspired by various situations of living or working in an international environment (meetings, travel, telephone conversations, etc.).
BULATS - Business Language Testing Service -
It is a test that is aimed at companies and organisations. Designed to help employers quickly find out the level of language skills of their employees or potential candidates for a job, there is no "pass" or "fail" here, but the candidate is given one of the CEFR grades (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2). It is aimed at all those seeking a place on the international labour market. In a 60-90 minute period BULATS tests your language skills relevant to your job. Immediately after the test you receive the result, together with a description of your language level. BULATS is available for four international languages: English, French, Spanish and German.

2. FRENCH can be assessed using two tests - DELF and DALF. The French Institute in Romania explains that the two tests are complementary, and have been in compliance with the CEFR since 2005. These diplomas are valid indefinitely. They are internationally recognised and endorsed by the foreign ministries responsible for education.

DELF - Diplome d'etudes en langue francaise - It offers certification for the first four levels (A1, A2, B1, B2), divided by age (children, teenagers, adults).
DALF - Diplome approfondi de langue francaise - used for advanced levels of competence C1 and C2.

But there are other types of tests, each addressing different needs:

DFP - Diplome de Francais Professionnel - Proposed by the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It specialises in different areas and fields of interest (current situations of social and professional life, business, legal, tourism and hospitality, secretarial, medical) in eight different types of tests.
TCF - Le Test de Connaissance de la langue Francaise - It is designed by an institution belonging to the French Ministry of National Education to determine the general level of knowledge of the French language. Suitable for those who want a quick assessment of French knowledge and a classification on one of the six CEFR levels.
TEF - Test d’Evaluation de Francais - allows the assessment of the level of French for any non-native speaker according to the CEFR. Suitable for study needs in foreign universities, for emigration or for professional needs.
BULATS - Business Language Testing Service - idem pct. 1.

3. GERMAN can be assessed and certified through the Goethe Institut in Romania, and there are two tests that can do this:

Goethe-Zertifikat - It is a modular test. There is Goethe-Zertifikat A1, Goethe-Zertifikat A2, etc. up to C2. It is recommended to register for a pre-test in order to establish the candidate's level of German, thus avoiding the situation where a potential candidate fails the exam because he or she is taking the C1 exam even though his or her level is B2.
DaF sau TestDaF - Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache - The TestDaF exam is an advanced level exam. The exam covers the fourth (B2) and fifth (C1) level of the six levels of the CEFR language proficiency scale and is recognised as a German language certificate for admission to any university in Germany. No specialist knowledge is required to pass the exam.
BULATS - Business Language Testing Service - idem pct. 1.

4. For SPANISH the Cervantes Institute provides:

DELE - Diplomas de Espanol como Lengua Extranjera - DELE diplomas are awarded by the Cervantes Institute and recognised by the Spanish Ministry of Education and Science. A DELE diploma is an official, internationally recognised certificate that can be used to prove your knowledge of Spanish (A1 to C2). Diplomas in Spanish as a Foreign Language (DELE) have unlimited validity - they never expire.
BULATS - Business Language Testing Service - idem pct. 1, with the clarification that it is not part of the services offered by the Instituto Cervantes, but by the Universidad de Salamanca.

5. And to certify our ITALIAN language we have several possibilities, depending on the institution that has built and issues the certificate.

Thus we have from Università per Stranieri di Perugia:

CELI - Certificato di Lingua Italiana - are certificates of general knowledge of the Italian language aimed at adults attending school. They certify competence and ability to use the language and are usable for work and study. CELI certificates are further divided into several categories, depending on the framework of use.
CIC - Conoscenza dell’italiano Commerciale - Checks intermediate level business knowledge for professionals able to move freely in the labour market or organisational environment. The CIC user is able to deal with communication situations, both verbal and written, preferably limited to their area of interest in the business world.

Università per Stranieri di Siena suggests the test:

CILS - Certificazione di Italiano come Lingua Straniera - offers an official certification of linguistic and communication competence in Italian as a second language. It was the first Italian certification to adhere to the six levels proposed by CEFR.

Two more tests can offer certifications, namely IT - belonging to the Università degli Studi Roma Tre, or PLIDA (Progetto Lingua Italiana Dante Alighieri) belonging to the Societa Dante Alighieri.

Of all these, however, CILS and CELI are the best known. They confirm foreigners' knowledge of Italian and are recognised by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Certificates can be used for professional, educational and personal purposes. CELI certificates are officially recognised by universities, international companies and governmental bodies worldwide. Holding a CILS or CELI certificate can help you get into university or college, improve your professional skills and help you find out your level of Italian.

In conclusion, note a few points:

Foreign language knowledge deteriorates due to the passage of time and the lack of up-to-date information (cf. psychology's theory of memory functioning). So the best strategy is to train seriously, regularly and practise intensively until the moment of taking up the job abroad. Obviously, afterwards, daily interaction at work will fill this need.

It's good to keep track of our progress and our language skills so that we can better prepare ourselves, and therefore get ahead, but also so that we know if we qualify for a particular job. If they ask for C2 level and I only have B2, it is clear that I will not pass the selection. This can easily be done with the help of free tests provided on the internet by various sites. However, please note that a serious test that provides a valid, internationally recognised certificate is done for a fee, in a well-organised setting, and takes a considerable amount of time (in the order of hours).

The great institutes we talked about above: Cervantes, Goethe, Cambridge, etc. also offer courses in the relevant foreign language for which they then issue certificates after testing the knowledge. It is logical to assume, as a logical consequence, that such training focuses even better on the knowledge needed to obtain qualifications than training provided by a tutor, for example.

So perhaps a successful strategy would be, as far as possible, to learn in such institutions and test yourself in such institutions as well. Intermediaries and middlemen can lead to losses (material resources, information, time).

Not all employers recognise all the certificates provided by various foreign institutes or companies. So it's best to certify your language skills with the required test. If I, for example, have a BULATS certificate for English and my employer asks for a CPE, I have to get one too. So it is best to test myself before employment with the test agreed by the employer.

The reality is that language learning, testing and certification are all forms of commerce. Services are bought and sold. Some of them expire within a certain time frame (certificates lose their validity) and testing must be retaken. That's why it's best to test yourself either with tests that don't expire or, perhaps best, directly before hiring.

Not all tests are also equivalent to each other. A certification with one test does not guarantee that you get the same score with another test. Again: be careful what employers in the countries where you want to practise ask for.