Exchange Visiting Scholar: English Language Proficiency Assessment

The U.S. Department of State (DoS) mandates English language proficiency for all visiting scholars invited to the U.S. under the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa program (22 CFR 62.10(a)). Specifically, J-1 program sponsors are required by DoS regulations to establish, prior to their participation in the J-1 exchange program, that all visiting scholars have “sufficient proficiency in the English language, as determined by an objective measurement of English language proficiency, successfully to participate in his or her program and to function on a day-to-day basis” (22 CFR 62.10(a)(2)).

Instructions: The UA Little Rock faculty member conducting the assessment must complete the following form at the time of or after the interview. As you ask the following questions, assess the international scholar’s comprehension of and fluency in the English language. Record your assessment as instructed below.

Note: Each interviewer must conduct an independent interview and complete an independent assessment, resulting in at least two interviews and two assessment forms for each international scholar.

Exchange Visiting Scholar Program: English Language Proficiency Assessment

Required Questions

1.) Why have you chosen to pursue an exchange visit at UA Little Rock?

2.) What knowledge or skills do you expect to acquire during your time in the United States?

3.) How do you think the time you spend at UA Little Rock will benefit you personally and professionally?

4.) What do you seek to learn about the culture and society of the United States, and how will you share this knowledge when you return to your home country?

Required Discussion

Ask the visiting scholar additional questions related to his/her program content area (field of research, etc.) and his/her ability to perform expected activities. Assess whether the visiting scholar exhibits the ability to do the following:

1.) Perform research/internship program activities, including teaching and collaborating with English speakers

2.) Navigate daily life in the United States alone (e.g. grocery shopping. Renting an apartment, etc.)

3.) Read and understand information related to maintaining good standing in the program (immigration requirements, etc.)

4.) Understand fully his/her rights, responsibilities, and protections in the United States

5.) Know how to seek help in the United States if necessary

Assessment Report

Scholar's comprehension: Check the option that best fits the visiting scholar’s English comprehension level during your conversation.(Required)
Scholar's communication: Check the option that best fits the visiting scholar’s English communication aptitude during your conversation.(Required)
Please Justify your assessment below.

Interviewer's Attestation

MM slash DD slash YYYY
I attest that the prospected visiting scholar_____________ in the English Language to function successfully both in the proposed program and on a day-to-day basis in the U.S.(Required)
Interviewer's Name(Required)
MM slash DD slash YYYY