Language Requirements and Testing

Language requirements vary for each college and program within the university. Here, you'll find details on what's needed to graduate and how to choose the right class level.

What is CU Boulder's world language requirement for graduation?

Each school within the University has its own requirements for graduation-- some schools/majors require several semesters of the same world language. You should meet with your academic advisor to discuss progress towards degree requirements and specific requirements in your major/school. The degree audit is another useful tool to check your progress.

What are Colorado's world language recommendations?

Higher Education Admission Recommendations (HEAR)

First-year and transfer students applying to undergraduate programs are strongly encouraged to meet certain recommendations when applying to any Colorado four-year public college or university. Students with enrollments prior to Summer 2023 will be held to the previous CU Boulder MAPS requirements.

CU Boulder's Recommendations to Meet HEAR

Minimum Academic Preparation Standards (MAPS)

If you enrolled prior to Summer 2023, please consult the catalog of your first enrollment term for the MAPS requirements of the college/school/program in which you are earning your degree.

Are you a degree-seeking student at CU Boulder who plans to continue studying a language in which you already have some experience and/or coursework completed? If so, you must take a language placement exam so that you enroll in the appropriate class level of that language.

If you want to begin studying a new language, you do not need to take a placement exam. Simply enroll in the introductory level class of that language.

If you are proficient in a language other than English, you might be able to "test out" of the language requirement for a fee. Please speak with your academic advisor about the possibility of taking a proficiency assessment for your language; this option will depend on your major and college. If you are ready to pursue a proficiency exam, head to our Proficiency Exams page.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Your High School experience will count as world language experience. In order to have your experience qualify, your high school transcript should make the immersion experience abundantly clear. Contact your advisor to start the process of waiving the requirement.

No. Your high school transcript may qualify as an exemption. Contact your advisor to start the process of waiving the requirement.

Yes, if you pass a proficiency exam. If your language or dialect is unique and not tested in the assessments provided by BYU FLATS, you can contact ALTEC altec@colorado.edu for other exam options.

We believe that with the right modifications, language learning can be accessible. CU Boulder has an excellent modified language program that we encourage you to check out! Also, you can connect with the Disability Services office to learn more about accommodations and services at CU Boulder.

No. The requirement is for a certain level of proficiency (usually equivalent to 3 or 6 semesters of study) in one language. You can pick one of the languages you have some experience in, take a placement exam, and continue taking courses until you meet your program's requirements.

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