Placement and Proficiency Testing in Less Commonly Studied Languages
Placement testing is not necessary if you have never studied the language. If you are not familiar with a language, you will enroll in its first-semester elementary course. Only if you have previously studied or used the language should you take a placement test in order to determine which Illinois course is most appropriate for you as you continue your studies of that language.
Proficiency testing is carried out by the department that offers the language. The department decides the manner in which language proficiency is determined as well as the dates and times of the testing. The department also determines how much, if any, proficiency credit your performance may earn. Sometimes passing the proficiency exam will fulfill your Gen Ed language requirement but will NOT award you credit hours. You should consult with your academic advisor to find out how your academic record will be affected if you pass a language proficiency exam.
Please be aware that a less commonly studied language MIGHT NOT BE OFFERED every semester. Course availability depends on instructor availability. That means that placement testing, as well as proficiency testing, might not be available in a particular semester. Please check with the department that is responsible for the language (contacts listed below) to see what your options are.
If your language is not listed above
and you need to take a placement or proficiency exam, you may contact the Testing Center and make arrangements through them to take the appropriate NYU exam. You are responsible for paying for all proctoring and testing fees. Excellent performance on the 12-point NYU exam will fulfill Illinois' General Education LOTE requirement.
For other questions, please contact pnp@illinois.edu or call 217-244-4437.