Traditional language testing methods require costly and time consuming efforts to regularly compose, pilot, and update test editions. Furthermore, language testing services rely on handcrafted questions and standardized formats that leave room for human error in test composition and cheating in test administration. These characteristics limit effectiveness and reliability of tests designed to evaluate foreign language proficiency.

This technology provides an innovative test to determine language proficiency by tracking gaze as English as a Second Language (ESL) learners read free-form English text. Analysis of gaze patterns enables direct measurement of cognitive linguistic ability and evaluation of language comprehension from reading. Direct measurement of foreign language proficiency in this manner can improve test reliability, reduce test development costs, and strengthen robustness to cheating as compared to existing English tests.