MELC offers two types of modern language exams: placement and proficiency. Placement exams are for students who plan to enroll in a modern language course. Proficiency exams are for students who wish to waive a college or major foreign language requirement, or who need a language assessment for an external program or fellowship. Please note that non-UC Berkeley students will be assessed an administrative fee for proficiency exams.
Placement Exams
Please contact the instructor of the course who you believe is the most appropriate for your placement level to learn how to schedule an exam.
Proficiency Exams
Individual foreign language proficiency tests are administered by the MELC Department to registered Berkeley students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, in the service of both Berkeley degree requirements and for external fellowships and programs. Tests may also be administered to students at other UC and non-UC campuses.
Proficiency exams are used to evaluate a student's language ability. Proficiency exams are given to (i) UCB students who need to satisfy degree completion requirements stipulated by campus college, department, or academic program; (ii) UCB students who need to conduct research in support of the completion of their Berkeley degree; (iii) UCB students applying for post-graduate external scholarships not in support of Berkeley degree requirements; and (iv) non-UCB students who need their language skills assessed.
Please select the modern language below for the appropriate proficiency exam and fill out the form.