What is the language level required to begin your study at Russian universities and how to take the test?

To confirm your Russian language proficiency, you are required to take the TORFL Russian-language International State Examination to determine your level..

WHAT IS TORFL ?

The abbreviation TORFL signifies Test of Russian as a Foreign Language. The French version of this is known as: Test de Russe Langue Etrangère (TRKI). This refers to International State examination to appraise your Russian language proficiency level. There is also “Russian for Professional purpose” for tourism and business. This refers to a special TORFL according to subject register

WHY DOES A FOREIGN STUDENT NEED TO TAKE TORFL?

The TRKI will be useful for those who plan to study at a Russian university. The test includes a glossary that will be required during your studies. It is not mandatory to have the certificate when applying, each higher education institution establishes its policy on whether the certificate will be required of a candidate or not. However, in some cases, having the TRKI certificate can be an added advantage. For information on the list of required documents, contact the Centre for Business Development and Cooperation with Russia through your personal profile on the platform. TRKI is also required for students who will later need the knowledge of Russian language to be able to work. This is not only limited to linguists, but also cultural professionals, oil and gas experts, economists and political scientists. The test is taken to obtain an official certificate validating their language proficiency level

TORFL LEVELS

The TRKI (TORFL) comprises six levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2.

1.    A1 (TEU: elementary level) Minimum Russian language level, not sufficient for daily dialogue.

2.    A2 (TBU: basic level) It is a certain knowledge of the Russian language sufficient to communicate but with a limited number of words. This level allows you to exercise a professional activity in the Russian language but with a limited number of words.

3.   B1 (TORFL – I: the first level) The average level of knowledge of the Russian language, which allows you to communicate daily with your loved ones, in academic and professional life.

4.    B2 (TRKI – II: second level) Sufficiently high level of command of the Russian language. This level allows you to communicate in all spheres of activity, for example engineering, humanities and natural sciences. To obtain this certificate, you must have a bachelor or a master.

5.    C1 (TRKI – III: the third level) With this level of certification, you can exercise a professional activity in Russian as a translator, editor, journalist, diplomat, manager, or work in a Russian company.

6.    C2 (TRKI – IV: fourth level) This level is comparable to that of a native. Obtaining this certificate gives you right to carry out all kinds of teaching and scientific research activities in the Russian language.

WHAT IS THE TEST ABOUT?

Each level of the test consists of five subtests:

·       Lexis; grammar;

·       Written comprehension;

·       Listening comprehension;

·       Written expression;

·       Oral expression; ;

The test is carried out in two days. The first day, we test your writing skills in Russian language, as well as grammar and vocabulary. The second day is based on the ability to process verbal information in Russian, and also communicate.

After successfully passing the test, you will receive a national certificate recognized by the state attesting to having acquired sufficient knowledge of the Russian language at the appropriate level

WHERE CAN I TAKE THE TEST?

To take the TRKI (TORFL), you must apply to the Centre for Business Development and Cooperation with Russia.