Placement: Frequently Asked Questions

 What is the format of the F-CAPE exam?

The F-CAPE is a computerized, multiple-choice exam. Therefore, it tests grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. There are no listening or speaking components.

 Where and when is the F-CAPE exam administered?

You may take the test online.

 Do I have to take the course my placement score indicates?

The score needed to place out of French is binding.

Once you have a placement score, consult the chart (http://www.virginia.edu/french/resource/students/admin/placement/place.htm) to see which course is recommended. Students who place within the Required Courses Sequence (101-202 or 232) must select a course at a level which corresponds to their placement score or one level higher than the score indicates, up to 232.

It is usually to the student's advantage to attempt a higher level course and thus complete the required course sequence more quickly. Selection of a lower level course may be made only with the authorization of the Language Program Director.

 I have had three years of high school French. Why can't I take 101?

French 101 is for true beginners or students with very little previous exposure to French. It is difficult for beginners to keep up with students who have already had 3 or more years of French in high school and beyond. We designed French 105 precisely for students who have had more than 2 years of HS French, but who want to start from the beginning. Students who have completed more than 2 years of high school French (grades 9-12) will not receive credit for FREN 101, regardless of the placement score. They should register for FREN 102, FREN 105, or FREN 201.

Exceptions can me made for students with extenuating circumstances, such as diagnosed learning disability, or a lengthy gap of time (three years or more) between the last time the student took French in high school or or at another college before enrolling at UVa .

Contact the Language Program Director to request permission to take 101 if the above circumstances apply to you.

 May I skip a course? For example, may I take 101 and then 201, skipping 102?

No. Courses must be completed in sequence, so be sure to start at the highest level you can.

For more detailed information on French Placement FAQs please click on: http://artsandsciences.virginia.edu/undergrad/policies/2005/degree_requirements/french_requirement_faq.php

For general information of the College's Foreign Language Requirement, please click here:
http://artsandsciences.virginia.edu/undergrad/policies/2005/degree_requirements/language_requirement_faq.php

If you are experiencing technical difficulties taking the exam online, click here

 If you have further questions about the placement test, please contact:

Cheryl Krueger, Language Program Director.