10/15/2026
When language influences what a test measures
A person scores poorly on a reasoning test.
They have the required skills, but found it challenging to understand some of the instructions written in their second language.
So what is the test actually measuring?
When an assessment is intended to measure reasoning, personality or judgment, language proficiency can sometimes influence the result even though it is not part of the characteristic being assessed.
That is why, when the context allows and language proficiency is not itself being assessed, offering the assessment in a language the person knows well can help reduce that influence.
The situation is different when proficiency in a language is a genuine job requirement.
In that case, it is better to assess it directly using a tool designed for that purpose and to define the required level based on the actual demands of the role.
Writing complex reports, communicating verbally with clients, and interpreting simple instructions do not call for the same language skills.
In other words, the key lies in clearly distinguishing between what you want to assess and the language proficiency required to complete the test.
This distinction allows for more accurate information to support decision-making.