Meeting the Foreign Language Requirement

• When you first arrive at Mason, get started on your foreign language requirement as soon as possible. Don’t leave the language requirement to your final semesters!
• The foreign language requirement for the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) requires you to pass a course in a language they've deemed sufficiently "intermediate." In practice, that means you need to pass a course numbered 202 or higher in your chosen language. Most students accomplish this task in three (3) semesters: YourLanguage 110 (6 credits), then YourLanguage 201 (3 credits), and finally YourLanguage 202 (3 credits). In general our students have found that doing this sequence in romance languages like Spanish or French tends to be less burdensome than other choices.
• Do you already have significant experience with a language other than English? If so, consider taking the MCL placement test. It may be possible for you to test out of part or all of the language requirement. More information on foreign language placement tests can be found at: https://mcl.gmu.edu/placement-testing
• Explore different options for fulfilling your requirement:
  • If you struggle with spoken languages either Latin or American Sign Language (ASL, listed under EDSE 115, 116, and 219) might be a better fit for you.
  • Take some of your foreign language coursework over the summer when you may be taking fewer classes.
  • Audit a language class, rather than take it for credit. This way you can prepare for the next level or review a course you have already taken. You have to pay for the class and will not earn credit, but you will gain practice and confidence in the language.
• If you’re struggling, don’t be afraid to get help:
  • Mason provides a list of tutors you can hire (https://mcl.gmu.edu/resourcepage/tutoring). Less expensive than retaking a failed course!
  • You can practice through online programs such as Rosetta Stone (free for Mason
    students: https://library.gmu.edu/use/tech/rosetta)
  • If you are dealing with severe anxiety, don’t hesitate to reach out to Counseling and Psychological Services (https://caps.gmu.edu/) for help.
  • If you suspect you have a disability impeding language learning, you can speak with Disability Services at Mason (https://ds.gmu.edu/).
• Don’t forget you can make an appointment with your advisor to go over your options. Information about how to find your advisor can be found here:
  https://historyarthistory.gmu.edu/advising-in-history-and-art-history