ELPAC examiner training — ACR & REF courses
The ELPAC ACR (Examiner Accreditation) and REF (Examiner Refresher) courses are delivered by the EUROCONTROL Aviation Learning Centre to ensure ELPAC examiners are trained, standardised and maintained at an appropriate level of competence. Together with ZHAW, EUROCONTROL accredits two examiner roles — Operational Expert (OPE) and English Language Expert (ELE).
For ATCOs and pilots
The OPE is an operational professional — a serving or former air traffic controller or pilot — who assesses the operational descriptors (Pronunciation, Comprehension and Interactions) during Paper 2 and confirms or contests the ELE's recommended Paper 2 level.
For language specialists
The ELE is a qualified English language professional who rates all six ICAO descriptors — Pronunciation, Structure, Vocabulary, Fluency, Comprehension and Interactions — and recommends a Paper 2 level.
Two courses, one accreditation pathway
ELPAC examiner training is built around two complementary courses. The ACR course gives candidates the initial qualification to act as an ELPAC examiner or test administrator. The REF course keeps accredited examiners standardised and up to date with the current grading scheme and materials.
ACR — Examiner Accreditation
- Duration
- Typically 4 days
- Format
- Classroom only
- For
- Nominated examiner & test administrator candidates
The ACR course provides the initial qualification for professionals nominated to become ELPAC examiners or test administrators. It combines theoretical input with extensive practical exercises and calibration sessions. Upon successful completion, participants are recommended for accreditation in their respective examiner role.
- Apply the ICAO Language Proficiency Rating Scale consistently
- Use ELPAC assessor documentation and follow standardised procedures
- Perform the interlocutor and assessor roles during ELPAC Paper 2
- Conduct reliable, fair and standardised assessments in line with ELPAC requirements
REF — Examiner Refresher
- Format
- Instructor-led online (classroom on request)
- For
- Already accredited ELPAC examiners
- Purpose
- Maintain competence and standardisation over time
The REF course supports already accredited ELPAC examiners in maintaining their competence and standardisation over time. It is normally delivered as an instructor-led online training and may, upon request, also be organised as a classroom course.
- Review of the ELPAC test construct and format
- Updates to the grading scheme and assessment criteria
- Calibration activities to ensure consistency between examiners
- Practical assessment exercises using current materials
Locations & delivery
Classroom-based courses are organised at the EUROCONTROL Aviation Learning Centre in Luxembourg or, upon request, at the premises of the requesting organisation. REF courses are primarily delivered virtually with live instructor support.
Target audience
Professionals nominated by ELPAC user organisations — air navigation service providers, aircraft operators, training organisations and competent authorities. Participants typically include Operational Experts (ATCOs or pilots) and English Language Experts.
Accreditation pathway
- Step 1NominationBy your ELPAC user organisation.
- Step 2ACR course4-day classroom training with ZHAW and EUROCONTROL.
- Step 3AccreditationStandardisation and qualifying assessment.
- Step 4REF coursePeriodic refresher to maintain accredited status.
Becoming an ELPAC examiner
- 1. Nomination — your ELPAC user organisation nominates you as an OPE or ELE candidate.
- 2. Submit your file — share your CV and relevant operational or language qualifications with the ELPAC team.
- 3. Attend the ACR course — the 4-day initial training delivered with ZHAW and EUROCONTROL.
- 4. Accreditation — pass the standardisation and qualifying assessment to be accredited.