French Placement Test
Welcome to the French Language Centre (FLC)! We look forward to helping you improve your French!
The first step is to take our placement test to assess your French skills and recommend the course that best matches your proficiency level and learning objectives.
Who is this test for?
- Any student registering for a French course at the FLC for the first time.
- Exchange students or students with special status from another institution.
Please note: If you have taken a course at the FLC within the past two years, you do not need to take the placement test again, unless you have since taken French courses elsewhere (outside McGill or in another department).
What do I need to take the test?
Just your McGill email address (firstname.lastname [at] mail.mcgill.ca).
What is the process?
Step 1 – Take the French Placement Test
Self-register for the test at any time.
Please note:
- The test takes approximately 60 minutes, depending on your proficiency level.
- You must complete the test without any external help (e.g., online tools, AI, books, personal notes, etc.).
- The result is valid for three consecutive academic terms.
If you are having issues accessing the placement test, please contact the IT Service Desk.
Step 2 – Receive an email with your placement test result
Within 1 business day of completing the test, you will receive an email confirming your placement level and providing a link to the French courses that match your assigned level.
Step 3 – Register for courses in Minerva
Important: Before registering for your French course, wait one business day after completing your placement test.
If you see an error message or registration restriction in Minerva, wait one business day and then try again.
Please note:
- Enrollment permits corresponding to your level are automatically issued in Minerva. You will not receive a confirmation when your registration permit becomes available.
- Completing the placement test and receiving a placement level does not guarantee enrollment in a course, as spaces are limited.
French placement test registration
Students can self-register for the placement test at any time through myCourses.
If you experience any issues registering, please contact frenchplacement [at] mcgill.ca.
(Please ensure to include your full name and student ID number in the subject line of your request.)