13 FAH-1 H-220

LANGUAGE TRAINING AT FSI/WASHINGTON

(CT:FSIH-06; 04-17-2012)
(Office of Origin: FSI)

13 FAH-1 H-221 Types of Training Offered

13 FAH-1 H-221.1 Intensive Language Training

(CT:FSIH-01; 12-20-2007)
(Uniform State/USAID)
(Applies to Foreign Service Employees Only)

The Foreign Service Institute (FSI) conducts language training in Washington primarily as intensive full-time training, in order to make maximum use of the time available for training. Normally, students assigned to FSI for full-time language study are relieved of all other duties for the duration of their language training. Only emergency situations are permitted to interrupt or shorten language-training assignments.

13 FAH-1 H-221.2 Early Morning Classes

(CT:FSIH-06; 04-17-2012)
(Uniform State/USAID)
(Applies to Foreign Service and Civil Service Employees)

As a supplemental option for employees during Washington assignments, FSI also offers early morning classes in some languages. These classes meet before the normal workday Monday through Friday from October to June and are open to members of the Foreign Service and to other employees with a specific job-related need for the language.

13 FAH-1 H-221.3 Distance Learning Language Training

(CT:FSIH-06; 04-17-2012)
(Uniform State/USAID)
(Applies to Foreign Service and Civil Service Employees)

FSI also offers distance learning opportunities to develop, maintain, and improve foreign language proficiency. Some distance learning courses may be mentored. Distance learning language training courses and products are available to employees with a specific job or career-related need for the language.

13 FAH-1 H-222 Selection of Students for Language Training

(CT:FSIH-06; 04-17-2012)
(Uniform State/USAID)
(Applies to Foreign Service Employees Only)

FSI provides language aptitude testing and counseling to assist offices and agencies in the selection of suitable candidates. While there is no hard-and-fast rule, a score on the Modern Language Attitude Test (MLAT) of 60 or better is usually evidence that an employee is capable of doing acceptable work in a Category-B language. Similarly, candidates with MLAT scores of 50 or better are normally able to succeed in Category-A language training. A record of success in previous language training as an adult is usually a more reliable indication regardless of the MLAT score. Assignment of a person with a low MLAT score and no previous success in language learning to a category B or C language should be done in consultation with FSI. This does not automatically exclude such persons from training, but agencies or offices assigning such students should be prepared to withdraw them and make other arrangements if, early in the course, it becomes evident that success is not likely.

13 FAH-1 H-223 Assignment Procedures

(CT:FSIH-06; 04-17-2012)
(Uniform State/USAID)
(Applies to Foreign Service Employees Only)

a. With the exception of Early Morning language training and self-study (distance learning or traditional), State Foreign Service personnel are assigned to FSI language training by HR/CDA. State EFMs must also be enrolled by HR/CDA.

b. Students for regularly scheduled intensive language courses may be assigned for the full course in line with start dates published in the FSI Schedule of Courses. The enrollment request should be received by FSI at least two weeks prior to the scheduled course to ensure inclusion in a projected class.

c. Training must be specially arranged when:

(1) The candidate already has some proficiency in the language;

(2) Training is to be scheduled for less than the full course; and/or

(3) The candidate is to study a language or to start on a date not listed in the Schedule of Courses.

13 FAH-1 H-224 through H-229 unassigned