Modern Language Placement Test
If a student’s intended major requires a modern language (or if they wish to take a modern language course as an elective) and they plan to take French, German, Russian, or Spanish to meet that requirement, they must take the Clemson Modern Language Placement Test (MLPT) before registering for a modern language course. They do not have to take the MLPT if they are beginning a new language in which they have no background. If a student chooses to continue in a language in which they completed at least three semesters in high school OR has AP or IB credit, they will start at a minimum of 1020 or higher (depending on MLPT score). If, for any reason, they think that they may change to a major in the future that may require a language, they should take the test so that their score is on file. Students are expected to begin their study of the language at the level the test has recommended. If a student wishes to take a class in which they did not place, they are encouraged to attend the first day of class. If they still wish to change, they can contact a Department of Languages Academic Advisor for the next steps. Any transfer student or student who brings in credit for a modern language from another institution and plans to continue in that language is not required to take the MLPT; this includes students bringing in AP or IB exam scores from high school. These students should simply register for the next level in the language sequence.
Additional MLPT FAQs
- What do I do if I took one language in high school but want to change into a new language?
- What if I took less than three semesters of a language in high school?
- When do I take the Exam?
- In what cases would I not take the MLPT?
- Can I repeat the test if I don’t agree with my initial placement?
- Who do I contact for further questions?