Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the format of LPT (Language Placement Test)?
The LPTs consist of three sections covering listening, reading, and writing. Some LPTs include a speaking section. It takes about 30-45 minutes to complete the entire test.

2. What is the timeline and procedure to take the LPT?
The LPTs are open a week before spring/fall registration and end on the last day of registration. The exact dates before each semester are posted online on the homepage and Test Information page.

3. For how long are the results of the LPT valid?
The results of the LPT are valid for 4 years, but after the 1 year mark, the instructor of the language course in which the student registers has the right to assess the student's ability and, if necessary, ask the student to retake the LPT.

4. Can I take the placement test again if I fail it?
You cannot fail the placement test since the score you get is used for placement purposes only. The test allows us to determine the most suitable language course for you.

5. Can I take more than one placement test?
If you have knowledge of more than one second language, and you intend to continue to study them at Rice, you can take the LPTs in the languages you intend to study.

6. Can I receive credit for language courses I have taken before coming to Rice?
“Rice University awards transfer credit for certain college preparatory exams. Students are required to submit official score reports for any exams for which they wish to receive credit. The score reports will remain with the Office of the Registrar and become a part of the student's file at Rice University.” (Registrar’s website). The exams most likely to be used for language credit, and officially recognized by Rice, are the AP and the IB exams. Please visit the Registrar’s website for more information.

7. How many credit hours can I receive for my AP/IB exam?
You can receive up to three course credit hours (but not distribution credit) if you obtained a score of 4/5 in the AP exam, or 5-7 in the IB exam. The credit is given through course number 222 in the following languages: Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese and Spanish. Please go to the  Registrar’s website for more information.

8. Do I need to take the Rice Placement Test if I already have AP/IB credit?
You should still take the LPT to register in any of the language courses offered at CLIC, even if you have taken the AP or IB tests.

9. What if it has been a long time since I took last language class?
If the course you are planning to take has a previous course requirement (e.g., GERM 141 is required to take GERM 142), and you have taken the required course more than four semesters before you take the subsequent course, you are encouraged to take the LPT again to determine the correct course placement.

10. I could not find the German Language Placement Test.
The German LPT is being given in Canvas. Please email CLICplacement@rice.edu to get access to the test. For test instructions, click here.

11. I took 141 & 142 at Rice, but studied the 2nd year on my own. May I take the LPT to see if I place into a 300 level course?
Yes. If you take the LPT and place into a 300 level course you may take that course.

12. May I take the LPT in the same language more than once for an academic year?
No. You may take the LPT in the same language only once for each academic year. If you take the test in March or April  2016 for fall 2016 registration, you may not take the same test again in August 2016.