Latin Placement

Any student who wishes to study Latin at Washington University after previous coursework at the high school or college level should take the department's Latin Placement Exam. This entirely online exam, which should take about one hour to complete, consists of multiple-choice questions on basic grammar and on the syntax of short sentences. It is not designed to test vocabulary, although command of basic vocabulary will be important to success with the questions. Exam-takers must not use a grammar or dictionary during the exam, although many find it helpful to review beforehand and all are encouraged to do so.

The exam is located in Canvas. Students may self-enroll by following this link. Be sure to take the exam in a quiet place where you can focus. Exam results will be displayed on the screen when you have finished, and will be recorded and archived by the Classics Department. If you do not see the results, or if you have any other problems or questions while taking the exam, you can contact the Classics department (classics@wustl.edu). The four-year advisors of all incoming students are provided with placement recommendations so that they can assist in registration. To ask questions or discuss your exam results or placement, contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies. 

Students who place into and satisfactorily complete higher-level courses at Washington University will have Proficiency by Exam or Proficiency Documented details added to their academic records to indicate proficiency in prior-level courses. In cases where students have not brought in the maximum of 15 pre-matriculation units via transfer credit or AP, IB, or A-level scores, students may receive course credit for their proficiency up to the maximum of 15 pre-matriculation credits, however, credits in Latin are not applicable toward the Classics major or minor requirements. See the Proficiency Policy (link to: https://bulletin.wustl.edu/undergrad/admissions/#proficiency-policy) for more information.

Greek Placement

Students who arrive at Washington University having already studied some Greek may take a placement exam to determine appropriate placement; to access the exam, please contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies.

Placement Testing Accommodations

Students who need testing accommodations on placement exams due to a disability must submit their request to Disability Resources by completing a New Student Application, along with any necessary documentation. When accommodations are supported, Disability Resources will generate a verification letter students may provide the placement test coordinator.