Language Proficiency Examinations
How to prepare for the Language Proficiency Examination
Registration for the Language Proficiency Exam is now open in Inspira! Here are some study tips to help you get ready...
The purpose of the Language Proficiency Examination (LPE) is to test staff members’ written and spoken knowledge in any of the six official languages of the United Nations. To prepare yourself for it, the Language and Communications Programme offers you a wide variety of online activities.
Are all UNDP staff eligible to register for the LPE Examination?
Please note that only UNDP staff members who are in the General Service Category and on Fixed Term or Permanent Appointments are eligible for UNDP endorsement to take the Language Proficiency Exam according to UNDP practice. If you need further clarification, please contact UNDP directly.
If the agency/organization that I worked for does not endorse the payment of my LPE registration fee, can I opt to pay the fee myself?
No, individuals may not pay the registration fee directly to the UN to register for LPE.
Are National Professional Officers working at UN Secretariat field missions considered staff members?
Yes, National Professional Officers are considered staff members.
Are civilian police, military observers and members of national military contingents serving in missions considered UN Secretariat staff members?
No, civilian police, military observers and members of national military contingents serving in missions are not considered UN Secretariat staff members.
Are interns of United Nations System considered staff members of United Nations common system?
No, interns are not considered staff members of United Nations system.
Are Junior Professional Officers (JPOs) considered staff members of the UN common system?
Yes, JPOs are staff members of the UN entity that issued their letter of appointment. Therefore, Associate Experts or Junior Professional Officers of the UN Secretariat are considered UNS (internal) staff members. Those working with UNDP or UNICEF for instance are considered staff members of UNDP or UNICEF, external staff for the purposes of the LPE.
Am I eligible for the LPE if I have not taken any courses or use the language at work, but I speak the language at home regularly since I am a child or with my spouse?
No, using the language at home does not fulfill the eligibility criteria.
I have a UNDP-issued letter of appointment. Am I considered a Staff Member of the United Nations Secretariat?
If your letter of appointment is issued by a UNDP office on behalf of an agency, fund or programme, you are considered a staff member of the UN Common System and you must select your corresponding agency, fund or programme, when registering for the LPE.