Short answers to the questions candidates ask most often about the English Comprehension Level test and the American Language Course Placement Test. Each answer links to a longer guide.
What is the ECL test?
The English Comprehension Level test checks how well a person understands American English. It is written and controlled by the Defense Language Institute English Language Center (DLIELC). The ECL test explained.
Who takes the ECL?
International military students scheduled for training in the United States through the IMET or FMS programs, international participants in some exercises sponsored by the United States, and members of the U.S. military whose first language is not English.
What skills does the ECL measure?
Listening and reading. It does not test speaking or writing, and every question is multiple choice.
How many questions are on the ECL, and how long is it?
The paper and online versions have 100 questions and take about 75 minutes. The computer-adaptive version, given only at the DLI campus, takes about 25 minutes on average.
What is the passing score?
There is none for the test as a whole: each course sets its own minimum ECL score. Scores go from 0 to 100. ECL scores explained.
How long is an ECL score valid?
180 days.
How often can I take the ECL?
Only once a month.
What is the ALCPT?
The American Language Course Placement Test. It places students in the right level of the American Language Course, checks their progress and screens candidates before the ECL. It has 100 questions: 50 listening and 50 reading.
What is the difference between the ECL and the ALCPT?
Both measure listening and reading, but the ECL is the official measure for training decisions, while the ALCPT places and screens students inside English programs. ECL vs ALCPT.
Can I find real ECL or ALCPT tests online?
No. Real test forms are controlled by DLIELC. DLIELC publishes an ECL demonstration test to show the format. Everything on this site is original practice material.
How should I prepare?
Take a practice test to find your level, then work on grammar, vocabulary and listening every day. ECL test preparation, step by step.
Is this site official?
No. ECL & ALCPT English Trainer is an independent practice tool. It is not affiliated with DLIELC or any government.
Can I practice on my phone?
Yes, in any phone browser. On Android, the free app has every question, reads them aloud and works without internet.