Preparing for NEWL

EXAM OVERVIEW & SECTIONS 

NEWL measures functional proficiency in the interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational modes of communication. It does not assess knowledge of specific curricula, literary works, or cultural and historical content. The exam is based on the ACTFL scale and covers Novice High to Intermediate High levels.

The exam has four sections: Reading Comprehension, Listening Comprehension, Integrated Speaking, and Integrated Writing.

Reading (60 min): Examinees read short, culturally and linguistically authentic texts, such as lists, ads, schedules, brochures, and paragraphs, followed by 1–3 multiple-choice questions in English. Topics range from daily routines and social interactions to formal announcements and more advanced content.

Listening (45 min): Examinees listen to brief audio scenarios, including dialogs, newscasts, and radio shows, and answer questions on similar topics as the reading section. All content follows ETS Fairness and Equity guidelines (2009).

Speaking (45 min): Prompts (audio and written) require spoken responses on everyday topics like school, friends, and social situations. Responses are recorded via the browser; no software installation is required. Scratch paper may be used.

Writing (45 min): Prompts (audio and written) require written responses, such as notes, emails, letters, or expressing opinions in the target language. An appropriate keyboard layout is supported on both Mac and Windows, and scratch paper may be used.

Total Exam Time (without accommodations): ~3½ hours

GETTING READY FOR THE EXAM

The best way to prepare for NEWL is to engage with culturally authentic materials, including conversations, dialogues, books, websites, news reports, and TV shows, intended for native speakers. You can also view here the sample exam items for each language.

Starting October 13, 2025, a practice exam is available year-round in all four languages. It is offered in both short and full-length formats, depending on the language, is unproctored, and can be taken remotely. Scores are reported as percentage correct, helping you assess your readiness for the main NEWL exam in April.

Why Take a Practice Exam?

A NEWL Practice Exam can help you:

1. Set up your computer correctly
   Ensure that your system meets the technical requirements for the actual exam.
2. Familiarize yourself with the test questions
   Experience the content, format, and difficulty level of the questions.
3. Navigate the testing platform confidently
   Practice using all system features so you can focus on performing your best on exam day.

Read Before You Buy 

• No returns or exchanges are offered for used or unused practice exams.
• If you are unsure about taking the exam, please do not proceed and do not pay.
• You may take the practice exam more than once; however, the content will not change from your first attempt, and you will need a different email address.
• Taking a practice exam is a great way to become familiar with the format before the April 2026 main exam, though it is not required.
• Portuguese and Russian exams are available in two versions: short and full (see options below).
• For Reading and Listening, you will receive a percentage correct rather than a score report. For Writing and Speaking, you will receive your responses to review or share with your teacher for further preparation.

To learn more about the main exam dates for 2026, see below.

Ready to Take a Practice Exam?
Follow the instructions below to start your session and select the language and exam version that is right for you (link will be made available October 13).

• Arabic Practice Exam: Short (1 hour) | $45
• Korean Practice Exam: Short (1 hour) | $45
• Portuguese Practice Exam: Full (3.5 hours) | $65
• Portuguese Practice Exam: Short (1 hour) | $45
• Russian Practice Exam: Full (3.5 hours) | $65
• Russian Practice Exam: Short (1 hour) | $45

2026 EXAM DATES & FEES

For U.S.-based exams, testing will begin at 9:00 AM local time. International testing centers should contact us at hmshamsi@americancouncils.org to confirm start times. Please also review the international exam dates and fees listed below: 

U.S.-Based - $129

International - $149

Policy for International Examinees

Main Exam: All main exam dates will be scheduled to accommodate local time zones for international examinees.

Late Testing Exam: International Examinees requesting late testing must be available to test on Eastern Standard Time (EST).