Academic Advising

Step 6

If you already have experience with foreign languages, your foreign language placement level is determined by taking the Advanced Placement Examination administered by the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures. Otherwise, your placement level will be the first semester basic language level (SPAN 121 or FR 121).

Due to the unusual circumstances this year, the examination will take place in the fall. You cannot earn any advanced placement credit unless you take the placement exam. Even if you self-place into SPAN 325, and go on to successfully complete 325 and 326, for example, the Foreign Language Department will not award the 10 s.h. of AP credit unless you took the placement exam BEFORE completing the first course. (This is why you must take the exam in August.)

You will need to talk to your academic advisor:

  1. To determine if you need a foreign language course
  2. If a foreign language is an interesting addition to your major (as a second major or as a minor)
  3. If you simply would like to learn a second language or take a foreign language course

If you have any other questions about foreign language placement, please contact the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures at languages@wiu.edu.  

Please note, if you have AP credit or the Seal of Biliteracy, let your advisor know, and they will help you determine what is needed to complete a French or Spanish major or minor.

List