The Avant STAMP™ (STAndards-based Measurement of Proficiency) language assessment purpose is to improve language-learning outcomes, support excellence in language programs, and enable language credentialing. There are several different versions of the STAMP assessment offering a wide range of languages.
Avant offers sample tests for most languages on their website so students may better understand the format of the assessment.
There is an option to take the STAMP and STAMP WS either in person at the University Testing Center or remotely with an online proctor contracted by Avant. The STAMP ASL is only available in person at the University Testing Center.
The fee for a STAMP assessment ranges from $60.00 to $85.00, depending on language being assessed, and must be paid before scheduling an appointment. Once payment is made, please contact the University Testing Center to schedule an in-person appointment or to receive instructions on how to schedule a remotely proctored appointment.
Avant STAMP 4S
Avant STAMP 4S measures language proficiency in four areas: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It is an online test that adapts to the test taker. The real-world questions engage learners, and students are able to demonstrate their proficiency level as the test adapts to the learner. Avant STAMP 4S has been validated by field testing and expert panels. It is a secure test that requires a proctor during administration.
The STAMP 4S test is not timed though most students complete the assessment in two to three hours. As there is a speaking component to this assessment, we have limited appointment times available during the term. A passing STAMP score is required in all four areas to meet the BA second language requirement.
STAMP WS (Writing and Speaking)
STAMP WS offers language proficiency tests of less commonly taught languages in two areas: writing and speaking. Avant created the STAMP WS language proficiency test to meet the growing need for heritage language communities to have rigorous, professionally scored, and affordable assessments.
The STAMP WS by itself will not meet the BA second language requirement. As it only measures writing and speaking skills, other assessments or documentation are required to show skills in reading and listening.
STAMP ASL
Avant STAMP for ASL is a first-of-its-kind American Sign Language test. It was developed for second-language learners of ASL and Children of Deaf Adults (CODA) in collaboration with Bridges Oregon. Bridges Oregon is one of only two organizations that deliver the National Sign Language Assessment (NSLA) which uses the Sign Language Proficiency Interview (SLPI) to assess ASL interpreters. For every STAMP ASL purchased and delivered, a portion of the proceeds is contributed to Bridges Oregon in support of its mission.
Test takers are evaluated on the Receptive skill (the ability to comprehend ASL) as well as the Expressive skill (the ability to create ASL) including the use of ASL grammar. This computer-adaptive Sign Language test is conducted entirely online and does not require a live interviewer.
This assessment was developed to align with the same proficiency scale and rigor as all other Avant STAMP tests. The Receptive skill is computer-adaptive and results are available immediately upon completion. The Expressive skill is scored by members of the ASL linguistics community that have undergone Avant Rater Certification training.
The STAMP ASL is used at the UO both to place students with prior ASL experience into the best course to continue their studies as well as to meet the BA second language requirement. A cumulative score of 7+ is required to meet the BA second language requirement.
Retake Policy
Avant allows students to retake the STAMP 4S or STAMP WS, but they must wait a minimum of ninety days before retesting. Any retake will be a completely new test and all sections must be completed. The highest score will be used. We recommend that students take time to review their language skills before retaking the assessment.