Levels of language proficiency in resumes

Understanding language proficiency levels

When listing language proficiency levels, resumes should use a standardized framework. Here are some common resume language frameworks you can use to demonstrate your proficiency to employers.

Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) (1) is used in many European nations. The CEFR includes six proficiency levels:

If you are applying for a job in the EU or if your employer recognizes the CEFR as its preferred framework, you should use these levels of language proficiency resume frameworks. 

Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR)

U.S. government entities often use the Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR)(2) to evaluate candidates’ language proficiency. The framework includes six levels, which range from Level 0 (no proficiency) to Level 5 (Functionally Native Proficiency). 

Suppose that you are creating a Spanish resume for a federal position. In this case, you should use the Interagency Language Roundtable proficiency system to convey your level of fluency. 

American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL)

The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL)(3) is another common framework in the United States. This system uses categories such as Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, Superior, and Distinguished. Using these proficiency descriptors on your resume clearly conveys your language skills to employers.

How to list language proficiency on a resume 

Once you’ve chosen the right framework, it’s time to highlight your language skills on your resume. Here’s what you need to know. 

Where to include language proficiency

You have several options when listing your language proficiency on resumes. Here are a few different places to consider: 

• List your languages and proficiency levels in the skills section of your resume 
• If you are applying for a job that requires a second language, include your fluency level in the summary of your resume
• List examples of how you have used a second language at work
• Identify any language proficiency certifications you have obtained

It’s important to demonstrate your level of language proficiency on resumes so employers understand the value you bring to the table. Suppose that you are applying for a job where speaking a second language is a key requirement. Make sure you list the language you speak and how proficient you are. 

Best formatting options

When listing language levels, resumes must be structured in a concise and easy-to-read format. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Bullet Points vs. Tables: Use bullets to make your resume skimmable, or create a table to organize your languages and proficiency levels 
2. Using Proficiency Labels: Avoid generic phrases and provide your specific proficiency level 
3. ATS-Friendly Formatting Tips: Your resume will probably be scanned by an ATS platform, so make sure it is formatted optimally 

Consider using a pre-formatted resume template. These templates are more likely to make it past ATS platforms, and that means you’ll have a better chance of having your application reviewed by the hiring team.

"It’s important to demonstrate your level of language proficiency on resumes so employers understand the value you bring to the table."

Examples of resume language proficiency listings

Here are some examples of how to put language on resumes: 

Customer service role (conversational Spanish) 

Marketing manager at an international firm (business-level German)

Translation specialist (native bilingual, English and Mandarin)

Entry-level applicant with language learning in progress

Explore additional resume examples to see how and where to list your language skills. There are no one-size-fits-all solutions. Remember, you should highlight your skills in the areas that are most appropriate for the role you are applying for. 

Self-assessment vs. certifications 

There are two ways to evaluate your language skills: self-assessments and certifications. You can self-assess your skills if you regularly use the language in your personal or professional life. If you can confidently have a conversation in a language, you can gauge your proficiency level without taking a formal test. 

If you are a non-native speaker or have limited work experience in your second language, you may need to obtain a certification. Some options include (4):

If you have a language certification, list it and your score or grade on your resume. 

How employers evaluate language skills

If you list language skills on your resume, hiring teams will verify that you are being honest about your proficiency level. Here are a few ways that businesses may evaluate your language skills: 

Common Interview Questions

Sometimes, the hiring panel will ask about your language skills during the interview. If one of the panel members is fluent in the language you list on your resume, they may even ask you questions in that language. Here are some questions to be prepared for:

Practice responding to these questions during your interview prep. That way, you can answer with confidence. 

Written Assessments

Some companies may require you to complete a written assessment. For example, you may be asked to translate a document or write an email in your second language. Make sure you are ready and don’t overstate your proficiency. 

Red Flags

Hiring teams will look for indicators that you overstated your skills on your resume and cover letter. Here are some red flags: 

• Failing a language proficiency test 
• Being unable to answer basic questions in the second language 
• Not providing examples of how you used the language in past roles 

If you are going to list a language on your resume, make sure you are ready to demonstrate your proficiency. 

Final tips for showcasing language skills effectively

When highlighting your language skills, make sure that you: 

Tailor your language proficiency to the job description

Your resume should be tailored to the job description. If the role requires you to be bilingual, highlight your language skills at the top of your resume. Need some help tailoring your resume and cover letter to fit the job description? Check out some resume and cover letter examples for inspiration. 

Avoid exaggerating your skills

Be honest about your actual abilities. Most employers will test your skills during the interview process. It’s better to demonstrate that you are learning and improving your language skills rather than overexaggerating them and failing a skills assessment.  

Highlight practical use

Provide examples of how you use your language skills in your current role. You should list some brief examples in both your resume and cover letter to show the depth of your experience. 

Accurately show levels of language proficiency resume skills to stand out

When highlighting levels of language proficiency, resumes need to follow a standardized format. They should also match the format and style of your cover letter for consistency. Using complementary resume and cover letter templates can speed up the document creation process and give you an opportunity to show off your language skills to prospective employers. 

So what are you waiting for? Get to work revising your job application documents to include levels of language resume skills so you can position yourself as a strong candidate.

Sources:

(1) CEFR Article: The CEFR Levels

(2) ILR Article: An overview of the history of the ILR language proficiency skill level descriptions and scale by Dr. Martha Herzog 

(3) ACTFL PDF: ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines 2024

(4) FluentU Article: 12 Language Proficiency Tests Worth Taking