The oral interview (OI) is a testing procedure that measures a wide range of speaking abilities in a foreign language. Although somewhat different versions are used in different testing situations, the OI always consists of a structured, face-to-face conversation on a variety of topics between a student and one or two testers. The resulting speech sample is rated on a scale whose specific range is determined by the testing agency. The OI was developed by the Foreign Service Institute and has been refined continuously by the Interagency Language Roundtable. The proficiency scale and interview have attracted increased interest in academic circles, both for testing and as an organizing principle for developing curriculum. They have demonstrated a high degree of reliability and validity, and the OI is appropriate when proficiency testing is warranted or desired, as for placement testing, before and after intensive language training, before and after living abroad, at the end of a major sequence of high school or college courses, for course equivalency, for teacher certification, and for assessing language program effectiveness. Formal tester training and certification are available through professional associations, and individuals can also have their own proficiency tested by contacting certified testers through the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages. (MSE)