Language Requirement Flow Chart Long Description

Step 1: Did you study/speak another language before coming to Yale?

  • If yes, proceed to Step 2.
  • If no, take three courses, designated L1, L2, and L3.

Step 2: Did you get a score of 5 on an AP World Language test or a 6 or 7 on an IB Advanced exam?

  • If yes, proceed to Step 3.
  • If no, proceed to Step 5.

Step 3: Are you continuing to study the same language?

  • If yes, proceed to Step 5.
  • If no, take a placement test in a different language and complete through at least L2.

Step 4: Does your language require that you take the placement test to place into L5?

  • If yes, proceed to Step 5
  • If no, take one course, designated L5, or take a different language through L2.

Step 5: Take a placement test at Yale or, for languages in which no placement test is offered, consult the appropriate director of undergraduate studies. Possible results are:

  • Place into L1, then take three courses, designated L1, L2, and L3.
  • Place into L2, then take three courses, designated L2, L3, and L4, or take a different language through L3.
  • Place into L3, then take two courses, designated L3 and L4, or take a different language through L3.
  • Place into L4, then take one course, designated L4, or take a different language through L3. *If you scored a 5 on the AP exam or a 6 or 7 on the IB Advanced exam, take one course, designated L4, or take a different language through L2.
  • Place into L5, then take one course, designated L5, or take a different language through L2.

Notes: 

  • Students whose secondary school transcript shows that the language of instruction was other than English may fulfill the language requirement by successfully completing ENGL 114, 115, 121, 421, or 450. Alternatively, students in this category may fulfill the requirement by successfully completing one course in their native language designated L5 or a comparable course at the DUS’s discretion, or by successfully completing courses in a third language, neither English nor the language of their secondary school instruction, at least through the level designated L2.
  • Transfer and Eli Whitney students should consult with the director of the transfer program or the Eli Whitney Students Program to ascertain their status regarding the language requirement.