The Carleton language requirement can be satisfied through demonstrated proficiency in a language other than English. If you’ve arrived at Carleton already proficient in another language, then you’ll need to go through some steps to demonstrate that. Note that you will need to show that you are proficient in all of the modes in which that language is communicated: speaking, listening, and (for written languages) reading and writing.

Demonstrating Proficiency in a Language Taught at Carleton

Carleton offers 4- and 5-course language sequences in 10 languages: Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Japanese, Latin, Russian, and Spanish. If you are already proficient in one or more of these languages, follow the instructions for language testing for the language(s) you already know.

For some languages, if you have earned a high score on an AP or IB exam, then you may have already satisfied the language requirement. Read policies regarding AP and IB credit for each language.

The Languages at Carleton site also provides information about placement into the right first course in a Carleton language sequence (even if that is earlier in the sequence than would demonstrate the level of proficiency necessary to fully satisfy the language requirement).

Demonstrating Proficiency in a Language NOT Taught at Carleton

If you are already proficient in another language that isn’t taught at Carleton, then the Office of the Provost can help to evaluate your circumstances and, if you are eligible, arrange for you to take a proficiency test in that language. Please note that the final determination of test eligibility will be made by the Office of the Provost. If you think you that you are proficient in a language other than English at the level of 4th- or 5th-term college courses (which corresponds to the upper end of the “Intermediate” range in the standards articulated by ACTFL, a professional society of language educators), then:

  1. You can start the process by completing the Language Proficiency Self-Assessment form.
  2. The Office of the Provost will evaluate your submitted information, in consultation with the Director of the Carleton Language Center, and evaluate whether a proficiency test is appropriate for your circumstances, and let you know.
  3. If a proficiency test is appropriate, then the Provost’s Office and the Language Center will identify an appropriate, qualified tester for your language. They will then arrange for that tester to administer an evaluation of your overall proficiency in your language.

Proficiency testing only takes place during the term, and the timing of the testing will be dependent on the tester’s availability and the test proctor (if applicable). A second attempt at a proficiency test is only allowed under rare circumstances, so it’s to your advantage to be well prepared!