This workshop introduces the ACTFL rating scale, the structure of the Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) and techniques of administering and rating the OPI, including its applications in the language classroom. Participants observe and conduct practice interviews at all proficiency levels, Novice - Superior. Participation in a Virtual OPI Assessment Workshop is the first step towards becoming an ACTFL Certified OPI Tester with either Limited or Full Certification.
The format of the course is a hybrid of asynchronous course work (on-demand modules via ACTFL's Learning Management System) and synchronous videoconferencing meetings with a facilitator. The last week of the course includes the practice interviews with feedback and discussion from the facilitator and other participants. Although this workshop is similar to the in-person, 4-day OPI workshop, it includes additional content. (Total of 30 hours of professional development)
IMPORTANT: The on-demand modules and live sessions are in English, however, completing the workshop will allow you to apply for OPI Tester Certification in the language of your choice. Please keep in mind that we recommend at least Advanced level proficiency in English to gain the most out of the workshop.
This course is very content-heavy. Make sure to plan on at least seven hours per week outside of the zoom sessions to make sure you have sufficient time to complete each module on time. The online modules close one week after the last day of Zoom interviews. You must complete all online modules and attend all Zoom sessions in their entirety to receive a certificate of completion and be eligible to apply for OPI Tester Certification. Following completion of this workshop, you are eligible to apply for OPI Tester Certification in the language of your choice.
All times below are in EST, but you may attend the workshop from any time zone.
Workshop Schedule: Monday July 13- August 31, 2026
- Automatic Enrollment Monday July 13th (during normal business hours 9 am -5 pm EST)
- Complete Modules 1 - 3
- Live on Zoom Session #1: Zoom Review Session: Monday July 20th - 6pm -7:30pm EST
- Complete Modules 4-6
- Live on Zoom Session #2: Zoom Review Session and Exemplar Interview : Thursday July 23rd- 6pm-8:30 pm EST
- Live on Zoom Session #3: Zoom Interview Sessions: Friday July 31st - 10 AM - 2:30 pm EST
- Live on Zoom Session #4: Zoom Interview Sessions: Saturday August 1st - 10 AM - 2:30 pm EST
- Complete all online course modules, including Summative Knowledge Check, Workshop Evaluation Survey by August 31, 2026
On-Demand Module Content and Approximate Time Commitment
| Module 1: Introduction to the OPI Familiarization Workshop |
1-2 hours |
| Module 2: Proficiency, the OPI, the ACTFL Rating Scale, and the Assessment Criteria |
3-4 hours |
| Module 3: The Sublevels, the Structure of the OPI, and Effective Elicitation |
3-4 hours |
| Module 4: Applications and Implications of the OPI |
3-4 hours |
| Module 5: Additional Preparation for OPI Testing, |
3-4 hours |
| Module 6: Certification Pathway |
1-2 hours |
Member Rate: Membership dues must be paid prior to registering for the workshop to register at the member rate. Please note, ACTFL will not refund the difference for those who register at the nonmember rate and then later join ACTFL. ACTFL membership fees are non-transferable and non-refundable.
School Purchase Orders: If you need to submit a purchase order, please email plc@actfl.org for further instructions. Please make sure to read our full Purchase Order page for additional details and requirements.
Cancellation Policy: All cancellation requests must be made in writing to plc@actfl.org. Refunds cannot be processed for cancellations after the start date of the workshop. Should you need to cancel, you will be charged a 20% cancellation fee. Refunds will be processed in the same manner in which payment was received. Please allow 2-3 weeks for processing.
You must complete all online modules and attend all Live Zoom sessions in their entirety to receive a certificate of completion and be eligible to apply for Limited or Full OPI Tester Certification