Who needs to take it?
Students who are interested in taking Spanish or French AND have studied/or are proficient in the language. At this time, Japanese and ASL courses do not require a placement test. Students completing a BA degree are required to have two years of a world language. World language study will enhance any major and open doors to study abroad, international internships and employment.
When should I take the test?
Sometime before you sign up for your first language class at SOU. New students for the Fall term should take the placement test before coming to Raider Registration during the summer.
Can I buy back credit for language courses below my placement?
If you earn a B or better in the course you placed into, you can apply to buy credit ($100 per course*) from the language department within one term of finishing the language course. For example, if you place into and pass Spanish 202 with a B or better and go to the language department within a term, you can pay to have Spanish 101, 102, 103, 201 transcripted for a total of $400 for 16 credits. Please note: These credits are specific to SOU. If you are planning to transfer to another institution, please call the Registrar at that institution to determine if the credits will be accepted.
Applications and more information are available in the offices of the Division of Humanities and Culture, Central Hall 261.
The application will be denied if a student: a) previously received credit for the course at this or another university; b) challenged the course and received an NP or c) completed courses at a higher level of competency.
*Course cost is subject to change.
When and where is testing offered?
World language testing is available online. You can take it any time, anywhere, if you have a computer and internet connection. The test generally takes about 30-40 minutes and does not include an oral component. NOTE: This is a free service to all SOU students.
Log on to:
http://bit.ly/2Q8MgT9
Create an account using your SOU email address.
Placement scores are good for one year. If you feel you did not place into the level you thought you should you can go to the World Languages and Cultures Program in Central Hall and ask for an oral assessment.
If you experience difficulty, please contact Amanda Lopez at 541-552-6182 or email her at lopeza2@sou.edu.
Computers are available in the Dan Morris Language Center for students to take the placement exam.
The placement exam does NOT demonstrate proficiency. It CANNOT be used to replace the admissions or BA language requirement. Students must complete a course or courses.