Deciding When to Take the Proficiency Examination

• A student may take the proficiency examination after completing the Advanced II level of study. Most departments recommend at least one additional semester of course work before attempting the exam.
• Students should be advised that for some languages (such as Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, and Russian), three full years of intensive language instruction are required in order to sit for the examination.
• Students should consider their overseas study plans. Students who take the proficiency exam after returning from study abroad often perform better and receive higher scores.
• Georgetown offers summer language programs in Ecuador, France, and Germany. Students may take the proficiency exam on site at the end of these programs.
• Students are responsible for the content portion of the examination and should discuss their preparation with faculty members in the appropriate language department.