Share

Placement in Latin

All entering students have automatic access to the online Latin Placement Test test on Canvas. If you have studied Latin before coming to Dartmouth, you may want to consider taking the online test, as a way to determine which Dartmouth course is appropriate for you.

The online Latin Placement Test is a timed test (45 minutes) consisting of 50 multiple-choice questions. If for some reason you do not have access already, you can request it by emailing the Language Program Director, Prof. Jenny Lynn: jenny.lynn@dartmouth.edu.

More about the placement process

It is important to remember that the online test is only one of several methods we use to determine your ability in Latin. In particular, the online test cannot determine placements beyond the Latin 3 level, even for students who are obviously qualified to enter the more advanced Latin courses.

After you take the online test, you will receive an email advising you what to do next. Depending on your score, you might be encouraged

  • to start with LAT 1 either in Fall or Winter, OR
  • to start with LAT 2 in Winter or Spring, OR
  • to start with Latin 3 in Spring, OR
  • to consult with the Language Placement Director about the possibility of taking LAT 10.

Please be aware that because LAT 10 offers opportunities for review (as appropriate to your level), it is quite possible that you may do well in that course even if you have forgotten some things you once knew about Latin.

For some students, a placement into LAT 10 has already been made on the basis of a reported score on the AP Test, the SAT II Subject Test, or the IB. If this applies to you, you will see the official placement already showing on your DartHub (= Banner) record. In this case, you do not need to take the online test, although you are still permitted to do so if you like.

Students who have other questions about the placement process are encouraged to contact Professor Lynn: jenny.lynn@dartmouth.edu.