The Foreign Language Assistance Act is passed, and a grant program for support of innovative K–12 language education is created.

The first Center for Business and International Education is established. Later named Centers for International Business Education and Research when they are incorporated into Title VI programs.

The ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines, adapted from the government ILR guidelines, are developed and published by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL).

Government-wide Language Proficiency Skill Level Descriptions are finalized and approved by the federal Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR).

The commission makes recommendations on the importance of foreign language and international studies, assesses the need for foreign language professionals in the United States, and recommends legislative policy to enact the commission’s recommendations.

The role of the NRC is expanded to include outreach to K–12 education, four-year and community colleges, business communities, and the general public.

Future NFLC founder Richard Lambert conducts research into the nation’s foreign language teaching infrastructure and area studies programs.

Originally authorized as part of the National Defense Education Act of 1958, Title VI grants are formally established.

The Fulbright-Hays Act for Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange is passed.

Nineteen language and area centers are established as precursors to National Resource Centers, which lead to the establishment of programs for language institutes, foreign language fellowships, and international research and studies.