Undergraduate Study Abroad

Language Learning Expectations for Study Abroad

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Language Learning Expectations for Study Abroad

At Brown, we believe that cultural immersion and language learning are key parts of meaningful study abroad experiences. By developing language skills and effectively engaging with and navigating a new cultural landscape, students can build skills and connections they can put to use throughout the rest of their time at Brown and beyond.

To support this engagement, Brown has language learning expectations that are meant to help prepare study abroad students for immersive experiences and facilitate their continued language learning throughout their time abroad. 

Please note that the following institutional expectations complement and are in addition to the stated language preparation expectations of individual study abroad programs.

The study abroad portfolio includes opportunities for students of varying language abilities. Regardless of program-specific requirements, Brown has language learning expectations for all students. Students should consult their program’s administrator to confirm the language proficiency requirements for their specific program. We recommend students consult program requirements early on in their study abroad planning so they can plan for working toward any program requirements in the semesters leading up to their study abroad term. 

Brown has a three-part language learning expectation:

  1. Prior to studying abroad, students are strongly encouraged to:

            -Take language courses at Brown (if study abroad local language is offered)

                                                                  OR

            -Self-study local language, which students can do through freely available resources (if local language is not offered at Brown)

 

  1. While studying abroad, students are required to take at least one course in a local language.

     

  2. Following study abroad, students are encouraged to continue language and culture learning that builds upon their study abroad experience.

 

Students studying in locations where English is the primary local language are not required to take English language courses; however, they are encouraged to take a course that covers topics relevant to the local culture. 

Brown & CASA Program Language Requirements

Brown & CASA Program Language Requirements

Brown in Bologna (Italy)Intermediate Italian or higher (ITAL 0300/Intermediate Italian I at Brown or equivalent is required)
Brown in Paris (France)Upper Intermediate French or higher (FREN 0600/Writing and Speaking French II at Brown or equivalent is required)
CASA Barcelona (Spain)Advanced Spanish or higher (HISP 0600/Advanced Spanish II at Brown or equivalent is required)
CASA Granada (Spain)
  • Intensive Spanish Language (CILE) track: No previous Spanish language study required. Students will be placed according to their language level upon arrival (typically A1/Beginner - B1.2/Upper Intermediate). HISP 0100 or HISP 0200 at Brown is recommended.
  • Spanish Language and Culture (CLCE) track: Students must place into level B1.2/Upper Intermediate or B2.1/Advanced. HISP 0400 at Brown is recommended.
  • Hispanic Studies (CEH) track: Students must place into level B2.2/Upper Advanced or higher. HISP 0600 or higher at Brown is recommended.
  • University Studies (UGR) direct enrollment track at the University of Granada: Students must place into Level B2.1/Advanced or higher. HISP 0500 or higher at Brown is recommended.
  • Translation and Interpretation (TRAD) track at the University of Granada: Students must place into Level B2.1/Advanced or higher, although B2.2/Upper Advanced is highly recommended. HISP 0600 or higher at Brown is recommended.
CASA Havana (Cuba)Upper Intermediate Spanish or higher (HISP 0500/Advanced Spanish I at Brown or equivalent is required)

 

For questions on language placement and programs, please contact your study abroad advisor.

For non-Brown-administered programs, students should consult with their program provider or host institution for program language requirements. 

Language Learning Expectations and Petition Programs

All study abroad program petitions must demonstrate an academic rationale for participation, meaning there is a unique academic offering that is not represented in the portfolio of approved study abroad programs. Petitions based solely on geographic preference will not be reviewed.

In alignment with Brown’s commitment to language learning as a part of study abroad experiences, no petitions will be approved that do not emphasize language (when applicable) and/or cultural immersion as a core part of the program. Students participating in an approved petition program must enroll in at least one language or culture course while studying abroad.

Additional Topics

Academic Standing

Brown's College Curriculum Council requires that students be in good academic standing to study abroad.

Academic Planning

Information about integrating your study abroad semester into your curricular program at Brown.