French Placement Test:

1. Interpreting the results

The Brown placement test in French is comprised of 2 separate components.  The first test can place students at the beginning and lower intermediate levels, but for more accurate placement, students obtaining an intermediate or higher score are requested to take the second part.  This is what you need to know to interpret your score:

If your result on Test 1 is:

above 404--Write down your score and take Test 2
from 377 to 404--Plan to register for FR400
from 235 to 376 included--Plan to register for FR300
below 235--Plan to register for FR100

If your result on Test 2 is:

95 or above--See an advisor* about possibly taking a 100-level course
From 80 to 94--Plan to register for FR600, FR750 or FR760
From 70 to 79--If your test 1 score is:

450 or above--Plan to register for FR600, FR750 or FR760
under 450--Plan to register for FR500 or FR520

From 60 and 69--Plan to register for FR500
Under 60 --Plan to register for 400

Please write down your scores since you will need them if you wish to discuss your placement with a French placement advisor*.

Note: at the 5th and 6th semester levels, you may choose between a general language class (FR500 and FR600) and a literature class (FR520 and FR750/760.)

2.   Determining which French course you should take this semester

A test is just one piece of information and, especially if your score is borderline and/or does not correspond to what you expected, you should discuss your placement with an advisor from the French department. We recommend that after the test, you take the following steps:

1.    Read the description of the course you placed into (French Studies web page or Course Announcement Bulletin.)
2.    Go to the bookstore and check out the textbook(s) for that course.

If the placement you received seems right, start in that course (you may consult with your instructor later if you have doubts or questions.)

If there seems to be a mismatch between your level and your placement you should consult with an advisor.  Make sure you bring your test scores and be prepared to describe what you have done in French so far, including books you have read and textbooks you have used. 

*Placement advisors will also hold office hours during the first week of classes.  Call French Studies at 3-3517 to find out when these will be held.  They will also be present at the French Studies Open House.

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