Defense Language Proficiency Tests

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The Defense Language Proficiency Test (or DLPT) is a test given to military linguists by the United States Department of Defense. It consists of computer delivered exams, designed to assess the general language proficiency in reading and listening of native English speakers who have learned a foreign language. A DLPT speaking assessment is administered to Defense Language Institute students who train onsite. The tests are meant to measure how well a person can function in real-life situations in a foreign language according to well-defined linguistic tasks and assessment criteria.

After graduation, military linguists are tested once a year, but the test does not include a speaking section. This yearly testing determines the level of Foreign Language Proficiency Pay that a linguist receives. DLPT scores may also affect the readiness rating of a military linguist unit.

Just like the DLPT IV, the DLPT 5 scores are based on the Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR) guidelines, and test levels 0+ through 3. Some languages will test to level 4.