Language Placement Questionnaire
Arabic · Chinese · Japanese · Korean
All students planning to study an Asian language at Rice must complete the Language Placement Questionnaire before enrolling, with the exceptions noted below.
Take the questionnaire early to ensure results arrive before registration closes.
Begin Questionnaire
Do I Need to Take It?
You do NOT need to take the questionnaire if any of the following is true:
- You have no prior experience with the language.
- You scored 5 on the AP exam for that language.
- You are continuing in the same language and simply registering for the next course in the sequence.
- You have native fluency in the language.
How It Works
Complete the Survey
Visit the link to complete a brief survey about your language background. You may indicate experience in any or all of the Asian languages offered.
Access Your Questionnaire
After submitting the survey, check your Rice email for Canvas links to the questionnaire for each language you selected.
Complete the Questionnaire
The questionnaire covers listening, speaking, reading, and writing and takes approximately 30–45 minutes. Do not start unless you can finish in one sitting.
Receive Your Placement
Each questionnaire is reviewed individually by language faculty. You will receive a Canvas message with your placement. Results are valid for 4 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I "fail" the questionnaire?
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No. The questionnaire is not pass/fail — it is used solely to determine the most suitable language course for you.
- Can I take the questionnaire for more than one language?
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Yes. If you plan to study more than one Asian language at Rice, you may complete the questionnaire for each language you intend to study.
- When will I receive my placement results?
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We will review your questionnaire and email the results to you within five business days. Please note that questionnaires submitted during the summer will be reviewed by mid-August.
- How long are my results valid?
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Placement results are valid for 4 years from the date of completion.
- I have transfer credit for a language course. Do I still need the questionnaire?
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No. If you have received Rice equivalency credit, you have satisfied the prerequisite and may enroll in the next course in the sequence. If you have trouble enrolling while the Registrar processes your transfer credit, please email Hossam Elsherbiny, Director of Language Instruction, at he9@rice.edu.
- My language skills improved over the summer. Can I retake the questionnaire?
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Yes. The questionnaire is the most efficient way to determine the right course for your current proficiency level.
Questions? Contact LPTplacement@rice.edu for placement questions, special registration forms, or course selection guidance.