ILTS World Language: Spanish (260)

It is a computer-based test with 65 multiple-choice questions and 2 constructed-response assignments. It includes a headset with microphone for the speaking assignment and listening section, and an assignment allowing special characters such as diacritical marks in a typed response. A character selector feature is available for practice.

Total appointment time is 3 hours and 30 minutes. That includes 15 minutes for the CBT tutorial and nondisclosure agreement, leaving 3 hours and 15 minutes of actual testing time. Plan to arrive early, since the tutorial time is fixed and cannot be used for answering questions.

The passing score is 240. Score reports are released on scheduled dates rather than immediately at the end of your session; you receive a receipt of completion when you finish. Check the published score report dates so you know when to expect your result.

The test fee is $110. Payment information is available through ILTS. Note that ILTS has announced reduced registration fees across test titles and a possible no-cost retake for candidates with two unsuccessful attempts; confirm current terms in the official policies before registering.

The test is offered at specific test centers in Illinois, by appointment during testing windows. Use the seat availability tool and the testing windows listed by test center location to find specific dates. Availability varies by site, so check early if you need a particular window.

The main risks are the integrated listening and speaking tasks and the constructed responses, which require extended, accurate Spanish under time pressure. Candidates who only drill grammar often lose points on cultural knowledge and on organizing written arguments. Practice timed speaking and typed responses with accents before test day.

Start with the official preparation materials and a practice test to identify gaps. Then work systematically on listening and speaking, since those are hardest to improve quickly, followed by reading, writing with the character selector, and cultural and pedagogical content. Finish with timed full-section practice.

ILTS publishes retake and registration policies, and it has announced that candidates with two unsuccessful attempts may be eligible to retake the same test at no cost. Eligibility conditions and any waiting periods are set by ILTS, so review the current policies before scheduling another attempt.

No. Tests may include questions being evaluated for future administrations, and those do not affect your score. You cannot identify which items are unscored, so treat every question as if it counts and manage your time across the whole test.