This page centralizes and summarizes information on language learning at UC Berkeley, including placement procedures, proficiency exams, languages offered, and language learning benefits.
Language Placement & Language Proficiency
Language Placement
Placement procedures assess your current knowledge of a language in order to determine which class is most appropriate for your current level to ensure your successful learning.
If you're looking to enroll in a language you are already learning, explore the different placement options here.
Language Proficiency
Proficiency procedures assess your language proficiency in order to meet particular requirements.
The L&S Language Requirement
For general information on the L&S language requirement and how to fulfill it, go here.
For students entering FA26 or after, please note that the previous metric—three years of high school study—no longer fulfills the requirement. You can satisfy the L&S Language Requirement by completing at least three years of secondary school in which the primary language of instruction was a language other than English, starting from grade 6 or above, as verified by transcripts.
Otherwise, to fulfill this requirement, you can take a dedicated proficiency exam OR take a language class:
- you can take a language class in a language you're already studying OR
- you can study one of the 57+ additional langauges we teach on campus!
Other Proficiency Exams
For other types of language proficiency assessments outside the L&S Language Requirement (e.g., Global Studies major), please contact individual departments.
Language Learning Transforms
Learning another language is not a niche pursuit—it is a durable, transferable skill that can enrich your career, strengthen your academic and cognitive abilities, and most importantly, expand your horizons. Below are some of the many reasons why language learning is an investment worth making in yourself. Click into each to find out more.
