Frequently asked Questions
 
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Do I have to take Phase II if I score 4? Yes. A 4 only indicates that you scored in the highest category for the multiple-choice part of the exam. This means that you have qualified for the second part of the placement exam. You are required to take this part of the test in order to receive a permanent score for your records.

What are the benefits of doing well on the Placement Exam and receiving a high score (advanced standing)?
You may have satisfied the foreign language requirement for any college at USC. Then, if you take one of the qualifying upper-level language courses and earn at least a B, you will be eligible for up to seven hours of "advanced standing" credit (for 121 and 122).

What happens if I score a 3 on a (French, German or Spanish) Phase II exam? If you have received a score of 3, you should take a 122 course. If you earn a grade of B or better in that class you will be eligible for four hours of "advanced standing" credit (121).

I have an AP score of 3 or higher in a language what should I do? Even though the University of South Carolina has a policy on placement for AP language scores we highly recommend that you take the placement Exam since it is geared towards our curriculum. Traditionally students place higher than what the University placement policy recommends. The University test is free and gives you a chance to begin your sequence of study at a higher level and complete the core requirement sooner or get to your minor or major credits in the chosen language faster.

Can I take the Placement Test more than once and use the better score? No. A student may take the Placement Test only once: a second score in the same language is not valid. The results of the Placement Test are binding for five (5) years; that is, a student may not take a course at a lower level than his/her proficiency score indicates.

Can I take American Sign Language to fulfill my language requirement? No. The University of South Carolina does not accept American Sign Language as a foreign language.

Can I place myself in a different level than what the placement score indicates? No. You will not be allowed to stay in a class that is not appropriate for your score. Should you feel that your class is too easy after a class or two you need to talk to your instructor to work out a resolution.

I took the placement test several years ago. Can I take it again? If you took the Placement Exam more than 5 years ago you have two choices- You can take the test again or you may choose to start your sequence of study at the beginning level.

How long is my score valid? Your score is valid for 5 years.

What does my score mean? Go here for a detailed answer.

I want to study a language different from the one I studied in high school. What do I need to do? You may begin the study of another foreign language at USC. You need to register for the beginning class in that language and do not have to take a placement test in that language first. On the first day of class your instructor will verify that you have no prior knowledge of that language.

If you want to study a language other than the one you studied in high school but would like to start that language at a level other than beginning you will need to take a placement test for that language.

I want to use a language that is not offered at USC to fulfill my language requirement. What do I need to do? You need to contact the placement coordinator who will be able to help you with this.