Foreign Language Placement Exams FAQ: Frequently asked questions about language placement
Why do I need to take a language placement exam?
You don't want to waste time, mental energy or money by starting your foreign language study at a level below or above your abilities. The Foreign Language Placement Exam will show both you and us which foreign language class at UofL is right for you.
Do I still need to take a placement exam…
….if I already have or am waiting for an AP score?
YES! All students continuing in French, German, Russian or Spanish must take the language placement exam.
… if I only had very little of the language?
YES!
…if I’ve had some French, German, Russian or Spanish but I don’t feel confident and I want to take the Basic (121) course?”
YES! No student with any French, German, Russian or Spanish will be allowed to take basic language course without the placement exam. The placement exam will help us determine your level more objectively.
...if I’ve had some French (or German, or Russian or Spanish) but I forgot every thing?
YES! (see above)
… if I never had the language before?
NO. If you’ve had NO French, German, Russian or Spanish at all, you should start with a Basic language course (121). This is the ONLY case when you don’t need to take the test.
How do I interpret my placement score?
Click here for Spanish, French, Russian and German exam results.
I believe my score does not reflect my level. Can I register for a different course than indicated in the score interpretation?
NO. Follow the instructions exactly but keep in mind that you will have a chance to discuss your situation with a language coordinator during registration. Any necessary adjustment to a student’s placement will be made promptly during the first few days of class.
When will my credits show up on my transcript?
When a student is placed into a course, credit toward graduation will be awarded only if the student successfully completes the class into which she/he has placed. Any credit earned by placement testing will be posted on the student's record only after completion of a regular semester of full-time study (or 12 semester hours) at the University of Louisville. Please note that it may take up to 2 semesters for the credit to appear on a student's record.
I learned French, German, Russian or Spanish outside of class. Should I take the placement exam?
YES. Contact Dr. Wendy Pfeffer (French and German), Professor Thomas Dumstorf (Russian) or Dr. Regina Roebuck (Spanish) after taking the exam.
I studied or learned at home a language other that French, German, Russian or Spanish. What should I do?
Contact the Department of Classical and Modern Languages by phone at (502) 852-6686 for more information.