1. Are the tests required?

No, but they are strongly recommended if students wish to be placed properly and if they wish to avoid paying extra tuition for university credits they do not need to take.

2. Are the placement decisions binding?

The placement scores are advisory. If a student believes s/he has been misplaced on the basis of the placement test, she/he should talk to the instructor of the course into which she/he has been placed, to an advisor in the language concerned or to the department chair. A retest may be suggested.

3. Do students receive credit for taking the test?

No. The tests are for placement only. If students receive a B or better in the course into which they place, they receive retroactive credit for courses preceding that level. For more information, go to: http://www.uwlax.edu/admissions/html/creditbyexam.htm

4. What is the policy on AP scores?

A score of 3, 4, or 5 on an AP test gives the student credit in a given course. If the student wants retro credit, s/he must take the next higher course and receive a B or better to get credit for courses preceding the one with which the AP score is associated. For more information, go to: http://www.uwlax.edu/admissions/html/creditbyexam.htm

5. If a student took an AP test in French, German or Spanish, should she/he still take the placement test?

Yes. AP scores often do not arrive until well into July. Students should take the placement test and be prepared to take the course indicated. If the AP score indicates a higher placement, the AP score takes precedence. However, students may be more comfortable taking the course indicated by the placement tests. If the AP score is 1 or 2, the placement test score will determine placement, in any case.

            6. How do I get additional information about placement testing at UW-La Crosse?

Contact: Barbara Rusterholz or Darlene Lake
Dept. of Modern Languages
315 Graff Main Hall
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
1725 State Street
La Crosse, WI 5460l
Department phone number: (608) 785-8324