FAQs

Common Questions

Q. I already have so much to do with work. Why is learning a language important in our environment?

A. As Soldiers, we are all required to shoot, move and communicate. Communication is only effective if the message is understood. We need language skills to properly and effectively communicate with our partner nations in order to accomplish our missions. 

Q. How can I take a Defense Language Proficiency Test (DLPT) or retake the Defense Language Aptitude Battery (DLAB)?

A.  You must submit a DA Form 4187 Personal Action to the Fort Moore Education Center to request a DLPT. The "Links" tab has the schedule for DLPT/DLAB. 

Q.  I don't like my DLPT score. Can I retake it?

A.  Yes, but you have to wait nine months. If you wish to take it within that time frame, you need a waiver from DA G2.

Q. Can I take the DLPT in a language other than Spanish?

A. Yes.

Q. How do I sign up for The Unconventional Training on Command (TUTOR)? 

A. Please get with your Command Language Program Manager (CLPM) to fill out the required document. It is a simple excel spreadsheet that will require your team number, your name, your phone number, and your civilian email.

Q. When can I sign up for TUTOR?

A. Advisors assigned to 1SFAB can sign up for TUTOR upon arrival to the unit. 

Q.  Can I sign up for TUTOR while on an employment?

A. Yes! Hours are open to everyone.

Q. How do I get paid for my language?

A. There are a few ways to get paid for a language in the Army. If you are trying to get paid for Spanish, you will have to meet a few other criteria. They can be found on the Foreign Language Pay tab at the top of this website. If you are trying to get paid for a language on the Strategic Language List, start your paperwork for Foreign Language Proficiency Bonus and route it through IPPSA.

Q. How much can I get paid for a language?

A. Advisors in a non language dependent MOS can get paid up to an additional $1000 a month for Spanish in Foreign Language Proficiency Bonus Pay.

Q.  Can I start getting paid for a language while already on an employment?

A. If you have a valid and non-expired DLPT score you can get paid while on an employment. If you are employed and near a military installation that allows you to take a DLPT, you can use those scores to start language pay. 

Q. How much do I have to study to get a 2/2? a 3/3?

A. Language learning is different for all individuals. It comes easier to some than it does to others. For Linguists going through the Defense Language Institute, they study eight hours a day then have about three hours of homework a night. Study hall, which is two hours, may be included.  For Spanish classes, after thirty-six weeks, they test and are required to get a 2/2 in order to pass the course. Advisors are not given the same timeframe, nor the same intensity. However, Advisors, with no Spanish language experience, can reasonably achieve a 2/2, or higher, after a tour in 1SFAB.