Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the
UW-Eau Claire Foreign Language Policy

 

1. Are the tests required?

Yes, all new freshmen who have studied French, German or Spanish and have not been out of high school for three years are required to take the placement test.

2. Are the placement decisions binding?

Students may take a course higher than the one into which they placed, but may not take a course lower than the course into which they placed without the approval of the chair of the foreign language department.

3. Do students receive credit for taking the test?

No. However, with a sufficiently high score, students can establish competency and thus satisfy a graduation requirement. Furthermore, UW-EC has a policy on retro credits which involves completing the course the student places into with a grade of B or better and thus being awarded credit for the course taken and all previous courses. Students should talk to the chair of the foreign language department at orientation if they are interested in this option.

4. What is the policy on AP scores?

A score of 3, 4, or 5 on an AP test will result in the student being awarded 16 credits.

5. If a student took an AP test in French, German or Spanish, should she/he still take the placement test?

Yes. AP scores do not come to UW-Eau Claire until well into July. Students should take the placement test and be prepared to take the course indicated. If the AP score is 3 or better and indicates a higher placement, the AP score takes precedence. If the AP score is 1 or 2, the placement test score determines placement. Also, some students are more comfortable taking the course indicated by the placement tests.

6. How do I get additional information about placement testing at UW-Eau Claire?

Contact: Center for Academic Testing
Box 4004 UW-Eau Claire
Eau Claire, WI 54701 (715) 836-5522 http://www.uwec.edu/admin/advising/testing/placement.htm