Overview
The Dzongkha Development Commission (DDC) of Bhutan is developing the Dzongkha Standard Testing System (DSTS), also called Dzongjug, a way to test proficiency in Dzongkha, Bhutan's national language. According to a BBS report, it is meant to work like IELTS does for English, and to give institutions that need to assess Dzongkha a common, credible standard in place of existing separate tests.
This page is based on one news report from the national broadcaster, published in June 2020, not an official DDC page. The system was then described as still being institutionalised, and its current status is not known from this source, so check with the DDC.
Who can apply
The project manager quoted in the report said anyone can take the test, with no qualification requirements.
Exam pattern
DSTS is designed as a language assessment that covers four skills: speaking, writing, listening and reading Dzongkha.
Fees
In the June 2020 report, the Commission said the test would be free of charge, unlike IELTS.
Where it may be used
The report said the system could be used wherever Dzongkha competence has to be checked, such as by the Royal Civil Service Commission and the Election Commission of Bhutan. For it to replace other Dzongkha tests, the government would first have to approve it, and the DDC planned to approach the government for that approval. The report also says candidates could take the test whenever they have time.
Important notes
At the time of the June 2020 report, the DDC was in a pilot phase and had run a pilot test for students of the Royal Institute of Management. Level names, scoring, dates and registration steps were not given in the report, so none are listed here.
Which skills does the Dzongkha test cover?
Speaking, writing, listening and reading.
Is there a fee?
The Commission said the test would be free of charge.