Language Learning Center

If you would like to study a new language, go for it! If you have no previous knowledge or exposure to that language, you may register for level 1010 (level 1120 for Portuguese).

If you are interested in continuing to study a language, please consult the Placement Information by Language page for specific information about your language of choice.

If you are interested in testing out of your language requirement, see the Language Proficiency Testing page.

Tulane Language Requirement

Students fulfill their Tulane language requirement by demonstrating Intermediate proficiency level in reading, listening, writing, and speaking. Students can achieve and demonstrate this in one of the following ways.

Language Advising Flowchart

Start here to learn about your language requirement and process for placement and proficiency testing.

  1. I am an …

    1. International Student

      1. I want to study a language at Tulane.

        1. Go to the Language Placement Test (LPT) and follow the directions for your language of choice.

      2. I do not want to study a language at Tulane.

        1. If English was NOT your primary language of instruction, you are automatically exempt from the NTC language requirement. If English was your primary language of instruction, you will have to demonstrate proficiency via an AP/IB/A Level language test or a Tulane administered Langauge Proficiency Test or complete a language course at level 2030 or higher.

    2. Domestic Student

      1. I want to study a language at Tulane.

        1. I did not take an AP/IB/A Level language test.
          1. Go to the Language Placement Test (LPT) and follow the directions for your language of choice.
        2. I took an AP/IB/A Level language test.
          1. Go to the Language Placement Test (LPT) to fill out the form to indicate that you have taken an AP/IB/A Level language test. Your Academic Advisor will assist you in selecting the appropriate course. Certain scores fulfill the language requirement. View the Equivalencies Chart for more information.

      2. I do not want to study a language at Tulane.

        1. I did not take an AP/IB/A Level language test.
          1. Go to the Language Proficiency Exam (LPE) and register for a Language Proficiency Test.
        2. I took an AP/IB/A Level language test.
          1. Go to the Language Placement Test (LPT) to fill out the form to indicate that you have taken an AP/IB/A Level language test. Your Academic Advisor will assist you in selecting the appropriate course. Certain scores fulfill the language requirement. View the Equivalencies Chart for more information.

Language Placement Test (LPT)

LLC provides placement tests and proficiency tests for our language learners.

Undergraduate placement tests—free for students. Placement tests are available to first-year and transfer students who intend to continue studying a language at Tulane University. The purpose of the placement test is to assess students' language abilities in order to place them in the most appropriate course for their level. Note: Transfer students please refer to your language director for advising.

Placement Deadlines

Fall and Spring Registration    
Please complete the required placement steps a minimum of 5 business days before your advising appointment or registration ticket.

Language Placement Tests

Placement Information by Language

Language Proficiency Exam (LPE)

Language Proficiency Exam (LPE) evaluates the student's ability to read and listen, speak, and write at the Intermediate-Mid level (as defined by ACTFL). Some languages proficiencies are measured at different levels. LPE is provided by Avant Assessment. The Proficiency Registration is now closed. It will reopen January 27, 2025. Incoming first year students: Please note that you will not be able to take the proficiency test until you officially begin your first semester at Tulane. Note: All communications will be sent to your Tulane email address.

Language proficiency testing is available for students who are candidates to test out of the Newcomb-Tulane College Core Curriculum language requirement. The test is also available to students and university community members that would like an official assessment of their language ability. The Language Learning Center credentials with the Global Seal of Biliteracy.

Seal of Biliteracy

The Seal of Biliteracy certifies the attainment of a high level of proficiency in listening, speaking,    
reading, and writing in one or more languages, in addition to English.

Test Scale: ACTFL    
If you attain Functional Fluency or Working Fluency on your language proficiency exam, you    
will qualify for the Seal of Biliteracy.

Functional Fluency Requirements:    
5 or higher on all 4 parts (Intermediate-Mid)

Working Fluency Requirements:    
7 or higher on all 4 parts (Advanced-Low)

Professional Fluency:    
9 or higher on all 4 parts (Advanced - High)

Study Abroad and Scholarships

Study Abroad Opportunities

Study abroad programs are essential in building a worldwide community of knowledgeable people who recognize and respect cultural diversity. Students who spend time abroad are immersed in fulfilling experiences that enrich their academic and professional life. Students enrolled at Tulane University have the opportunity to participate in study abroad programs and apply for a variety of language and area studies scholarships. You can search by language or program to find a study abroad program that appeals to you.

Tulane Scholarships

Tulane students can receive scholarships to fund their study abroad. Learn about the different ways you can receive a scholarship to fund your education abroad on the Center for Global Education website.

Non-Tulane Study Abroad and Scholarships

Lead with Languages is a national campaign that aims at making language proficiency a national priority. The website provides a list of language-specific grants and scholarships opportunities per language.