Skip to main content

Language Placement

Updated 4/13/2026

Who Should Take a Language Placement Test

Regardless of your undergraduate school, if you have prior knowledge of a language other than English, your language level must be assessed before you continue studying that language. Prior knowledge may come from studying in high school, speaking the language at home, living abroad, or engaging in self‑study.  

 

A qualifying AP or IB score may be used in lieu of a placement test in certain languages. Please check the AP and IB Language Credit page.

Special Cases
Language Learning Flowchart
The flowchart below shows step-by-step protocols based on student's background and interests. 

Language study at Northwestern flowchart


Information about Placement Tests by Language

Incoming students must complete the online placement test process by the stated deadline.  Students admitted after that deadline should follow the instructions posted in the language placement test information or contact the individual language placement coordinator for assistance. A list of languages taught at Northwestern and their placement coordinators is provided below. 

IMPORTANT NOTES:

For questions about placement, write directly to the placement coordinator in the relevant department.  You can find the contact information below or in Language Program Contacts.

Language-Specific Information for 2026-2027 academic year will be posted by May 1, 2026.

*These languages do not currently offer online placement tests.

GO TO THE Online Language Placement SITE