About Us Policies Programmes Registration Contact Us un.org Arabic Chinese English French Spanish Russian Language & Communications Programme

Placement Tests

What is a placement test?
It's a test to help us determine the best course(s) for you.

Do I need to take a placement test?

No, if you:
  • are a beginner in the language.  Simply enrol in Level 1.
  • can prove that you are very proficient in the language.  For example, show us your:
    • passing score on the UN Language Proficiency Exam (LPE), 
    • diploma from a univesity that uses the language for instruction; or
    • high score on an internationally recognized profiency exam. 
  • are a native speaker in the language.

Yes, if you:

  • have not yet taken a course in the language in our programme, or
  • are a returning student who has not taken a course for two terms or more.
When is the placement test?  Before the term begins.  
Most languages offer two options:  once 'early' (~two months before); and once 'late' (~two weeks before the term).  We have three terms per year: Fall (Sept - Dec); Winter (Jan - April); and Spring/Summer (April - July).
How do I register for the placement test?
  1. Look at our Registration Page to find out when, where and how to register.  
    *Be sure to register before the last placement exam.
  2. On the registration form, choose a day and time to take the placement exam.