In addition to selecting your anticipated language level on the WISLI Common Application, you will be asked to describe both your formal study of and informal exposure to the target language. This information helps ensure you are placed in the most appropriate class.
Our instructors are highly skilled at meeting students where they are, and small class sizes often allow for individualized attention.
Final course placement will be determined by your prior experience and, when applicable, informal assessments conducted by WISLI staff before or at the start of the program, especially when a change in level is not possible. Your course may be adjusted if it does not align with your background, or if two levels are combined into a single class. In some cases, a specific level may become unavailable based on enrollment or program structure.
Guidance for Selecting a Level When Applying
To choose the most suitable language level on your application, you are encouraged to:
-
Review past syllabi for your language program on the WISLI website to understand the materials, pace, and learning goals at each level.
-
Consult a prior instructor for advice on which level best matches your current skills.
-
Refer to the “Can-Do” statements by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) to identify the level that best reflects your abilities. These statements outline typical skills and benchmarks for learners at each proficiency level and can help you assess your progress and goals.
Novice/Elementary Level – If your abilities stick closely to the “Novice Low” and “Novice Mid” can-do statements, you are likely a good fit for the Elementary level. If you see yourself more in the “Novice High” level, consider the Intermediate level can-do statements as well to decide which fits better with your abilities.
Intermediate Level – If your abilities stick closely to the “Intermediate Low” and “Intermediate Mid” can-do statements, you are likely a good fit for the Intermediate level. If you see yourself more in the “Intermediate High” column, consider the Advanced level can-do statements as well to decide which seems to fit better with your abilities.
Advanced Level – If your abilities stick closely to the “Advanced Low” and “Advanced Mid” can-do statements, you are likely a good fit for the Intermediate level. If you see yourself more in the “Advanced High” column, please contact us to discuss whether WISLI is the right fit for your language studies.
Questions about placement? Don’t hesitate to contact us at wisli@lpo.wisc.edu.