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.
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
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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.
Useful links
- Spanish at 91¶ÌÊÓÆµÌý
- Certificate in Spanish Language and Culture
- General questions: dalspan@dal.ca