European Language Portfolio

Using the ELP

The European Language Portfolio is a personal document in which learners of all ages can record their language learning and cultural experiences both within and outside formal education. It also provides a framework for learners to assess their own language competences. The European Language Portfolio was developed by the Language Policy Division of the Council of Europe, piloted from 1998 to 2000, and launched in 2001, the European Year of Languages. 

Unlike the Common European Framework of References for Languages, there is no single ELP; each (member) state develops ELPs for their own context, based on Council of Europe guidelines and templates. As a result, there is a huge variety of Portfolios for different languages, target groups and ages. Have a look at all the Portfolios available in the ELP database. 

Information on the ELP is shared between /provided in tandem by the European Language Portfolio website within the Language Policy Portal and this ECML site.  For information on the origins and principles of the ELP and guidelines on how to develop an ELP model, go to the European language Portfolio website, which provides extensive information on these aspects.

The ECML website brings together the results of European initiatives relating to the implementation of the ELP in a variety of contexts. The aim is to promote the pedagogical benefits of the ELP and to facilitate its use in practice. The information focuses on two general areas: understanding the ELP and ELP in use. 

European Language Portfolio website of the Council of Europe