91¶ÌÊÓÆµ

 

Questionnaire and Placement Test

Welcome! ¡Bienvenidos/as! Choosing the Right Spanish Course for You

All students interested in taking Spanish, whether new, continuing, or community members, begin with the Language Background Questionnaire. It is mandatory. This helps us understand your previous experience and guides you toward the right course level. Depending on your experience, this may include a placement test and, in some cases, an additional assessment.

Starting in the correct course is essential. It helps you succeed, keeps the learning environment fair, and ensures that everyone is working at the right level. Our process is simple and supportive, designed to help you find the best fit.

Step 1. Complete the Language Background Questionnaire

This is the first step in the placement process and helps us understand your previous experience with Spanish. If you are a true beginner, the questionnaire will usually direct you automatically toward the introductory level.

Questionnaire link:

Step 2. Complete the Spanish Placement Test (if needed)

If you have previous experience with Spanish—through school, travel, work, family, or community use—you are required to complete the placement test. You will receive an automatic email after submitting the questionnaire. Completing this step helps us recommend the most appropriate course for your level.

Step 3. Contact the Academic Advisor when the Placement test is complete

Once you have completed the placement test, please email the academic advisor atÌýSpanish.advising@dal.ca. In your message, include your full name, B00 number, and the term when you hope to begin, and a screenshot of your results in the placement test.

Step 4. Receive Placement and Registration Guidance

Final placement decisions are made by the Department of Spanish and Latin American Studies. In some cases, a short oral interview may also be recommended. Once finalized, you’ll get clear guidance on course registration.

Academic Integrity and Accurate Placement

Providing accurate information during the placement process is essential. The questionnaire and placement test are designed to ensure appropriate course placement.

Misrepresenting your language ability—intentionally or unintentionally—may result in reassignment. In accordance with 91¶ÌÊÓÆµâ€™s Academic Integrity Policy, students are expected to provide truthful and complete information.

Accurate placement helps you learn effectively and contributes to a positive classroom environment.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need the placement test if I am a complete beginner?

Usually, no. True beginners normally start in the introductory course. The questionnaire still helps us confirm that you are starting in the right place.

What counts as prior knowledge?

Prior knowledge includes previous classes, tutoring, online study, living or travelling in a Spanish-speaking environment, regular family or community exposure, or any other meaningful experience with the language.

When should I complete the questionnaire or placement test?

As early as possible. This helps ensure you receive advice before courses fill.

What if I am on a waitlist?

You should still complete the questionnaire and placement (if applicable) steps as early as possible.

Why is honest self-reporting important?

Accurate information helps us place you in a course where you can learn effectively. Students who are registered in the wrong level will be asked to change courses.

Can community members study Spanish at 91¶ÌÊÓÆµ?

Yes! Community members may be able to study Spanish as non-degree students, and the Certificate in Spanish Language and Culture is also open to them as well.

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Clarification: If you are asked to drop a course because it is not your level and we recommend another course, this one may already be full.