Avant STAMP (STAndards-based Measurement of Proficiency) 4Se determines language proficiency in 4 domains (Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking) for grades 2-6. Avant STAMP 4Se is web-based and computer-adaptive, with real-world questions on topics selected to be level-appropriate based on research into topics taught at each level. The questions engage learners, and because STAMP 4Se is adaptive, students are able to demonstrate their own actual proficiency level without any pre-set upper limits. Avant STAMP 4Se was originally developed as the NOELLA test by a consortium of six state Foreign Language Supervisors, the Center for Applied Linguistics, and the Center for Applied Second Language Studies at the University of Oregon and funded by the US Department of Education. Avant STAMP 4Se has been validated by field testing and expert panels. It is a secure test that requires a proctor during administration.

Avant STAMP 4Se (grades K-6) is available in Arabic, Cantonese, English, French, German, Hebrew, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin (simplified & traditional), Portuguese (Brazilian), Russian, Spanish, and Yup’ik.

On average, it takes approximately 80-90 minutes to complete Avant STAMP 4Se. Avant STAMP 4Se is not timed, and students may pause and resume the assessment at any point. Test-takers are not allowed to use pencils and paper during testing. The STAMP test is designed to enable students to show what they can do with their language in an unrehearsed and spontaneous way in a real world context. Estimated Avant STAMP 4Se completion times by domain:

• Reading: 25-35 minutes
• Writing: 15-20 minutes
• Listening: 25-30 minutes

Speaking: 15-20 minutes

If the test taker does not attempt a response such as only entering one letter, number, space or only writes/speaks one target language word, the response will be rated as a Zero and that will affect the overall score for that section. We encourage test takers to do their best and to submit as much language as possible for each prompt so that they can receive an accurate score.

If the test taker leaves the response blank, they will not be able to move to the next prompt and complete the section.

Avant STAMP 4Se is computer-adaptive, meaning that the level of question difficulty that a student is presented with is based on the number of correct answers they have logged so far in the assessment. The testing engine automatically adapts to each student’s level-up or down-as the test progresses. This approach was pioneered at Avant Assessment, the first company to develop commercial-grade, multi-stage, computer-adaptive tests for language learning, beginning in 2001.

Individual Reports – Student will receive an Individual report showing the Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking levels attained on the Avant STAMP 4Se for each test taker. The individual reports communicate in clear, direct language what test takers at each level are generally able to do. Each test taker’s report has a scoring graphic for each section of the test. This inverted pyramid has a yellow-shaded area that depicts the level attained. For the Writing and Speaking sections, click on the Sample 1 or Sample 2 link to read or hear the test taker’s actual response for each specific prompt. This can be done at any time after the response has been submitted.

Reading and Listening scores are available as soon as the test taker completes each section. Be sure to refresh the page for updates.

Writing and speaking scores are typically available from 7 to 10 business days after test completion. Scores may be available sooner, so check the test results screen periodically to determine the rating progress. Click on any score to see additional details or to access Writing and Speaking responses. During busy testing times (March-June), scoring may take longer. Please plan accordingly.

All of Avant’s assessments include a Writing section in which learners will need to provide typed writing samples. The method for inputting the language sample may differ, depending on the target language for the test.

Take a Sample Test for the language you are testing to familiarize yourself with the layout of the test and confirm the following:

• You can record and playback your Speaking response
• You can type your Writing response in the language you are testing. Refer to our Writing Input Guide to see which languages require special keyboards
• Your equipment is configured properly and all technology preparation steps are completed before registering for a remote proctored test

Refer to the Assessment Technology Guide to troubleshoot any issues and make sure your system is properly configured.

It is also advisable to read the Avant STAMP Benchmarks and Rubric Guide and Test Taker Power Up Guide if you want information about the skills you need to demonstrate to achieve a certain test level.

Avant’s test utilizes spontaneous, unrehearsed situations to measure real-world language proficiency. The purpose of this assessment is to measure what you are able to do with the language without the support of any translators, reference material (including taking notes during any portion of the assessment) or assistance of any kind. 

The following is NOT PERMITTED during the assessment.

1. The use of dictionaries, textbooks, cell phones, paper, pens, or other support materials (paper-based or electronic). The only time test takers should have access to pens or pencils is if the Writing section is being administered as handwritten.
2. Taking or using notes of any kind (digital or handwritten) for any portion of the test, including the speaking and writing sections.
3. Writing down a speaking response and reading it as your recorded response. This will lower your score for that response, and it may be scored as a ZERO because it involves the use of paper or reference material.
4. Using additional computer or smartphone applications (e.g., Word, email, chat) or having other browser windows open during testing.
5. The use of Google Translate or any other translation aid (paper-based or electronic).
6. Using copy-paste, printing, screen capture apps/tools, video conferencing, messaging tools, or scanning and taking pictures/videos with your phone.
7. Sharing information about questions or prompts on the test with anyone.
8. Speaking or corresponding with anyone other than the proctor during the test. Or, receiving any advice or help from anyone during the test.
9. Using violent, profane or inappropriate language in your responses. This will lower your score for that response and it will be scored as a ZERO. 

Violating any of these rules may invalidate your assessment results. We recommend also referring to your organization’s policy on academic dishonesty. Learn more about Test Security and Integrity.