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College of Humanities
Center for Language Studies

Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI)

The Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) is a measure of spoken proficiency in a foreign language. The interview consists of a telephoned 20-30 minute conversation with a proctor who measures oral ability in the target language.

The OPI is then rated and given an official rating by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Language (ACTFL). The scale, as shown below, ranges from Novice to Distinguished.

Once you submit a request for an OPI, a notification will be sent to your BYU email address (netid@byu.edu). If you do not come to the scheduled appointment, you will be charged a $60 no-show fee by the testing company.

OPI-Scale-232x300.jpg
Image Courtesy of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL)
OPI-Scale-232x300.jpg
Image Courtesy of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL)

More information on ACTFL proficiency guidelines

Prepare for the OPI

Proficiency Tests Handout

Preparing for Your OPI

OPI Familiarization Manual (ACTFL)

If you have any other questions about the OPI or scheduling, please email cls@byu.edu for more information.