Testing Information 2026

Dear Student,

 

We offer two kinds of language exams at the UC Davis Language Center. Which one you choose depends on your goal.

📝 Which Exam Should You Take?

✅ 1. Proficiency Exam (In-Person)

Best for:

  • Fulfilling the Foreign Language Requirement (Letters & Science)
  • Native or heritage speakers
  • Students with 3–4 years of high school language study who performed well

What it does:

  • Allows you to meet your language requirement without taking classes
  • Provides instant results
  • Also works as a placement exam if you want (or need) to take more language classes.

Details:

  • Taken in person and proctored (supervised)

✅ 2. Online Placement Exam (At Home)

Best for:

  • Figuring out which language class level to enroll in

What it does:

  • Gives instant results
  • Helps you choose the right course for you

⚠️ Important:

  • Does NOT fulfill language requirements
  • For informational purposes only

To take an in-person Proficiency Exam:

 

  • We offer proctored Proficiency Exams at the UC Davis Language Center, in the basement of Olson Hall, in Room 53. 
  • You do not need an appointment for testing in Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, Spanish. 
  • For all other languages, please contact Mary Ryan at [email protected] for an appointment.
  • Please arrive at least 60 to 90 minutes before we close so you have time to finish your exam. 
  • Bring a picture ID.
  • If the building doors are locked, call 530-752-1508 and we'll come let you in.
  • Our current hours:  https://ucdlc.ucdavis.edu/hours 

To take an online Placement Exam:

Very best wishes!