Your Ultimate Guide to the UCLA Foreign Language Requirement

The world is becoming more connected every day, and learning a foreign language can give you a big advantage in today’s competitive job market. UCLA recognizes how valuable this skill is, which is why they’ve established the UCLA foreign language requirement for all undergraduates.

To graduate from UCLA, you’ll need to complete courses in at least one foreign language. So, why does UCLA put such a strong focus on learning another language? This blog offers a comprehensive guide to UCLA’s foreign language requirements, organized by department or school, along with a full list of available foreign language courses to help you make the best choice.

• What Is a Foreign Language Requirement?
• What Are the Foreign Language Requirements at UCLA?
• A Complete List of Foreign Language Courses at UCLA
• Is Taking Foreign Language Classes in High School Worth It?
• 3 Things to Consider When Choosing a Foreign Language Course
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Is a Foreign Language Requirement?

When it comes to foreign language requirements in college, there are two main types to keep in mind.

The first one is for admissions. Many colleges expect you to have taken a certain amount of foreign language classes in high school before applying. Usually, they look for at least two years of the same language.

The second type is for graduation. Many majors and colleges require you to complete one or more semesters of a foreign language during college. These credits usually count toward your general education requirements, so you won’t be able to graduate without them.

According to the Modern Language Association, some of the most popular foreign language college students in the U.S. study include:

• Japanese
• American Sign Language
• German
• Spanish
• French

What are the Foreign Language Requirements at UCLA?

For most non-language majors, UCLA recommends or even requires that students show competence in at least one language besides English. This UCLA foreign language requirement isn’t just for undergraduates—it can be valuable if you’re considering graduate studies, even if your major doesn’t specifically require it.

Many grad programs expect students to be proficient in at least one other language, and in some fields, you’ll need to study original documents in their native language.

Moreover, if you went to a high school (or equivalent) where classes were taught in a language other than English for at least two years, you might be able to skip the UCLA foreign language requirement by filing a petition. It doesn’t matter if the school was in the U.S. or another country—as long as English wasn’t the primary language of instruction, you can apply for an exemption.

First-year admission

For first-year admission, you’ll need to meet the Area E requirement, which means having two years of experience in a language other than English. Sometimes, this will cover the language requirement for your UC program. However, UCLA recommends taking three years to strengthen your application. This aligns with the University of California’s “A-G” subject requirements, which include:

• 2 years of a language other than English (3 years recommended)

Completing additional years can enhance your readiness for UCLA’s academic environment. Often, you’ll still need to take additional language courses once you’re in college.

Requirement for graduation

Every campus has its own set of guidelines for the language requirement, so it’s worth checking the specific rules for the Language other than English requirement at your school. Check this table for a detailed list of each UCLA foreign language requirement, depending on the school.

If you’re an international student, you can petition to meet the requirement by taking an advanced course in your native language. If all of your high school education was in a language other than English, you may be able to petition for an exemption from the requirement altogether.

A Complete List of Foreign Language Courses at UCLA

Foreign language courses can boost your creativity, problem-solving, listening, and memory skills. Knowing a second language helps you handle abstract ideas, broadens your worldview, connects you with a multicultural society, and gives you an edge in the job market.

These courses can count toward the UCLA foreign language requirement for undergraduates in the following schools:

• College of Letters and Science
• School of Arts and Architecture
• School of Education and Information Studies
• Herb Alpert School of Music
• Meyer and Renee Luskin School of Public Affairs
• School of Theater, Film, and Television

Is Taking Foreign Language Classes in High School Worth It?

If college is on your radar, then yes, taking foreign language classes in high school is a smart move. Many colleges require at least two years of the same foreign language as part of their admission criteria. Skipping these classes in high school might limit your college options and even affect how quickly you can meet requirements like the UCLA foreign language requirement.

In the U.S., Spanish is the most widely offered foreign language in high schools, covering nearly half of all language classes. Other popular options include French, Chinese, Latin, and German. But remember, it doesn’t matter so much which language you pick—what’s important is sticking with the same one.

So go ahead and choose a language that genuinely interests you, even if it’s not the most commonly taught. Your engagement and consistency will make a huge difference. Moreover, here are three great reasons to take a foreign language class in high school:

Get a head start on college requirements.

Many universities, including UCLA, have foreign language requirements, and starting in high school can help you get a jump on them. By completing at least two years of a language now, you’ll already be on track for college expectations, and you might even reduce the number of language courses you’ll need to take later to meet the UCLA foreign language requirement.

Boost your college applications.

Taking a foreign language shows colleges you’re up for a challenge and committed to broadening your skills. Schools like UCLA look at your high school courses to see if you’ve prepared well for their programs, and meeting the UCLA foreign language requirement early can definitely make you stand out.

Expand your worldview.

Learning a new language opens doors to different cultures, perspectives, and ways to connect with others. By taking a language in high school, you’re not just preparing to meet the UCLA foreign language requirement but also gaining tools that can enhance your understanding of the world and your role in it.

3 Things to Consider When Choosing a Foreign Language Course

Choosing a foreign language to study can be exciting, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure it’s the right fit for you. Since many colleges, including UCLA, have a foreign language requirement, your choice might even play a role in your college journey.

Here are three important things to consider as you pick a language to help you meet the UCLA foreign language requirement and make the most of your learning experience:

• Your interests and goals. Think about what interests you or what might be useful in the future. Are you passionate about a certain culture, or do you have plans to work or travel in a specific region? Picking a language that aligns with your interests can make it more enjoyable and give you added motivation to meet the UCLA foreign language requirement.
• Language popularity and accessibility. Some languages, like Spanish and French, are widely taught and have more resources available, which might make learning easier. If you’re looking to fulfill the UCLA foreign language requirement, choosing a language with lots of study materials and classes could give you an advantage.
• Long-term benefits. Consider how the language might help you in your future career or personal life. If you’re interested in international business, for instance, languages like Mandarin or German could be especially valuable. The right choice now can make it easier to meet any foreign language requirement and set you up with skills that benefit you long after college.

1. What are foreign languages?

Foreign languages are languages that are not native to a particular person or community but are learned to communicate with people from other countries or cultures. For example, for someone in the United States, languages like Spanish, French, Mandarin, or German would be considered foreign languages.

2. Do you have to take a language class in college?

Whether you need to take a foreign language in college really depends on your school and major. Many colleges have a language requirement as part of their general education, so taking a few language courses might be necessary to graduate.

For instance, with the UCLA foreign language requirement, most students need to prove language proficiency, often by taking college-level language courses. If you’ve already covered certain language requirements in high school, some colleges may let you skip additional language classes. It’s always a good idea to check your college’s specific guidelines to be sure.

3. How many years of language do you need for college?

Most colleges require at least two years of studying the same foreign language in high school for admission. However, more competitive schools often recommend three to four years to strengthen your application. These requirements can vary, so it’s good to check the specific language requirements for each college you’re interested in applying to.

4. How many years of foreign language are required for UCLA?

For UCLA admissions, you must complete at least two years of the same foreign language in high school. However, taking three years is recommended to make your application even stronger.

Takeaways

Learning a foreign language offers benefits that extend far beyond academics. It broadens your perspective, strengthens your global competitiveness, and sharpens your problem-solving skills.

• Starting a foreign language in high school can give you a head start in meeting the UCLA foreign language requirement and similar requirements at other universities.
• UCLA offers flexibility for international students who attended high school in a non-English-speaking environment. They can petition for an exemption from the UCLA foreign language requirement.
• At UCLA, students have various options to meet the foreign language requirement. They can complete college-level courses, pass AP exams, or demonstrate proficiency through departmental exams.
• Consulting a college admission expert creates a clearer and more successful path for you during your undergraduate years. They can help you with a successful college admissions experience.