Language Placement
Spanish and Portuguese Language Placement
For questions about our Spanish program, feel free to email Professor Cynthia Kauffeld ([email protected]). Inquiries about the Portuguese program can be directed to Professor Ernesto Ortiz-Díaz ([email protected]).
What Portuguese class should I take?
If you have never taken a Portuguese class, you should enroll in Portuguese 111. If you have taken Portuguese in high school or elsewhere, contact Professor Ernesto Ortiz-Díaz ([email protected]) for placement.
What Spanish class should I take?
If you have never taken a Spanish class, you should enroll in Spanish 101. If you have taken Spanish in high school or elsewhere you need to take the Emmersion online placement exam. See details below:
Spanish Placement Test
We offer a web-based placement test for Spanish through a company called “Emmersion”. There is no charge to you to take the test. You must take this test closed-book, with no assistance from others. The purpose of this test is to help you decide what level of language course to register for with a degree of confidence that you will complete the course successfully. Note: you cannot be exempted from the language requirement based on the results of this exam; it is a placement tool only. DO NOT take the test more than once.
To take the online test follow these steps:
- On the web, go to https://app.emmersion.ai/link/474805022c. (Chrome works best for the browser.) Enter your name, email address, ID# and create a password. Then click “Create Account”.
- Once you create an account, you will be re-directed to a screen asking you to sign in. Enter your email address and the password you just created. Then click “Sign In”.
- Select the appropriate language.
- Follow the instructions on screen.
The test takes approximately 15-20 minutes. At the end of the test you will be shown your score and the appropriate course placement. Or refer to the tables below to determine which language course to register for.
Spanish Course Placement
| Emmersion Score | Course # |
| 0-300 | 101 |
| 301-385 | 102 |
| 386-450 | 203 |
| 451-550 | 204 |
| Over 550 | 305* |
*L2 learners should take Spanish 305. To ensure the best placement, heritage Spanish speakers that score 550 or higher should consult Professor Alicia Muñoz ([email protected]).
Can I only take the Spanish class recommended by my score on the placement exam?
You are strongly encouraged to take the class recommended by your score. You should start by registering for that course and attend the first day of class. Then if you feel you need a more fundamental class or more of a challenge, explain your thoughts to the professor and they will help make sure you are in the right course.
I am interested in study abroad programs to immerse myself in the culture(s) of the Spanish/Portuguese-speaking world. What programs does the Department of Spanish & Portuguese recommend?
Here’s our page on study abroad programs.