Application Process > Foreign Language Requirement
Statement of Philosophy
Study abroad can be an integral component of the Brandeis University curriculum. A country’s language and its culture are intrinsically linked. A student’s experience abroad can be greatly enhanced when they have proficiency with the language native to the country where they will be studying. Prior study is greatly encouraged when the language is part of the Brandeis University curriculum. Where Brandeis University does not offer language study, students are given the opportunity to begin such studies abroad.
The Brandeis University Foreign Language Requirement for study abroad is designed to help deepen students’ knowledge of the country and culture in which they will be studying. Most programs on our Approved List require at least one year of college-level language study and many require a minimum of two years of college-level language proficiency or the equivalent. Even though Arabic, Chinese, Japanese and Russian are not included in the Brandeis University minimum requirements, please note that previous and ongoing study in these languages is strongly encouraged.
Foreign Language Requirement:
All students must demonstrate a basic knowledge of French, German, Hebrew, Italian, or Spanish as evidenced by having successfully completed levels 10 & 20 or the equivalent proficiency before going abroad to countries where that language is spoken. (Additional countries can be added to the list below without prior notice.)
French: Students studying in Belgium, Cameroon, Canada (Quebec), France, Madagascar, Mali, Senegal or Switzerland must demonstrate a basic knowledge of French as evidenced by having successfully completed levels 10 & 20 or the equivalent proficiency before going abroad.
German: Students studying in Austria, Germany or Switzerland must demonstrate a basic knowledge of German as evidenced by having successfully completed levels 10 & 20 or the equivalent proficiency before going abroad.
Hebrew: Students studying in Israel must demonstrate a basic knowledge of Hebrew as evidenced by having successfully completed levels 10 & 20 or the equivalent proficiency before going abroad.
Italian: Students studying in Italy must demonstrate a basic knowledge of Italian as evidenced by having successfully completed levels 10 & 20 or the equivalent proficiency before going abroad.
Spanish: Students studying in Latin America and Spain must demonstrate a basic knowledge of Spanish as evidenced by having successfully completed levels 10 & 20 or the equivalent proficiency before going abroad.
All Non-English Speaking Countries: Students must take a course for credit in the language of the country during EACH semester they are abroad. This may be a course in learning the language of the country or one conducted in the language of the country. Where applicable, failure to study formally in a foreign language will result in the loss of all credit for the year/semester.
Classes in English: Students seeking general university credit only may be eligible to take some classes taught in English where available in France, Germany, and Spain.
Foreign Language Majors: Students are expected to do all course work abroad in the language of the host country. Please consult your departmental advisor for specific requirements about receiving major or minor credit.
Exceptions to the Brandeis University Foreign Language Requirements for study abroad may be made on a case-by-case basis. Please see a member of the study abroad staff with any questions.
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