Fast Track Language Placement Exam Information
CHINESE MANDARIN, FRENCH, ITALIAN OR SPANISH
Please fill out the form request: Fast Track Placement Examination Form Request
Please make sure to enter an accurate email address that you can access, check daily and can use to read and send emails. From the moment you submit your request, we will be in touch with you via email within two business days with instructions on how to access and complete the test online. The exam will be completed online, and it requires that you have access to a computer with internet connectivity through either Google Chrome or Firefox Mozilla browser. The online Fast Track Examination cannot be completed from a tablet of smartphone; you must use a computer only. Microphone and webcam are NOT needed. The test consists in computerized questions such as multiple-choice, fill-in, reading/listening comprehension. Upon completion of the exam, the department secretary will communicate the results to students via email only and within one week from the test completion date.
ARABIC
Students interested in taking the Arabic Fast Track Examination must get in contact with Professor Hager Abouelkhair as the exam is performed in person with the professor. In order to set up a time and date, students can email Professor Abouelkhair at Hager.Abouelkhair@csi.cuny.edu
AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE
Students interested in taking the ASL Fast Track Examination must get in contact with Professor Russell Rosen as the exam is performed in person with the professor. In order to set up a time and date, students can email Professor Rosen at: Russell.Rosen@csi.cuny.edu.
OTHER LANGUAGES:
Students wishing to demonstrate proficiency at the 213 level or above in any language not taught at CSI, must contact the Department of World Languages and Literatures to request further information. Email Professor Lucas.MarchanteAragon@csi.cuny.edu.
Foreign Language Requirement and FAQs
The Foreign Language Requirement at CSI is proficiency based. This means that students have to reach a certain level of competency in a language. Many majors require students to attain an intermediate level of proficiency. For a beginning language learner, this will require three sequential semesters of a foreign language (112, 114, 213). Students who have previously studied a language or are heritage speakers may be “fast-tracked” and placed directly in 114 or 213 –or the equivalent heritage speakers courses (119, 219)- reducing the number of semesters of language study required. Students who have experience with a language should take the placement exam in 2S-114 in order to know what level course to begin their studies at CSI.
FAQs
Who should take courses in World Languages?
All students have a World Cultures and Global Issues (FWGR) general education requirement. Students may use any level course in a foreign language to satisfy the World Cultures and Global Issues (FWGR) general education requirement. Students who are enrolled in a language above the 112 level (beginning level) will need to see the Department of World Languages and Literatures (2S-109) to request a Pathways Appeal Form.
Who is REQUIRED to take a language?
Most students who are enrolled in a Bachelor’s of Arts (BA) major or a Bachelor’s of Science (BS) major in Art, Communications, Dramatic Arts, Music, and Social Work will need to either take three semesters of foreign language or prove competency above the intermediate level (213). Students majoring in Philosophy, Political Science, and International Business may only have to complete two semesters (112, 114). Students in International Studies, International Business, Philosophy, and Political Science should consult advisors for details.
Who is NOT REQUIRED to take a language?
All Bachelor of Science students (except Art, International Business, Communications, Dramatic Arts, Music and Social Work) may choose not to take a foreign language. These students will still need to fulfill the general education requirement of World Cultures and Global Issues (FWGR). See the catalog for a list of approved courses.
How can I be exempt from taking a foreign language?
Students can be exempt from taking a foreign language, or have the number of semesters of language reduced, by demonstrating proficiency in the language. This is done through the Fast Track Placement Examination. The Pathways general education requirement “World Cultures and Global Issues” (FWGR) cannot be exempted through examination. It can only be fulfilled by completing a course either in the foreign language or another course in this category. Students possessing a foreign high school degree from a non-English speaking country will receive an automatic exemption from the foreign language requirement.