Languages self-assessment quizzes
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Beginners' or Intermediate? How to choose the right level
If you already have some experience of a modern language, choosing your first module can be tricky. Do you know enough to start at intermediate level (L112, L113, L116), or should you start with a beginners' module (L192, L193, L194), even though you are not an absolute beginner?
If you are not sure about your level, there are several things you can do.
Take our self-assessment quiz for your chosen language - see below. The questions are at the standard of the start of the intermediate level modules, so unless you can get most of them right you should seriously consider taking the beginners’ module first. (To take the quizzes, you need to be signed in with your free OU account, or your student account if you are already an OU student.)
Look at the language competency framework produced by the Council of Europe, and decide which level best reflects your present ability.
Try working through the Open University’s free online courses in your chosen language, and see which feels like the right level for you to study.
If you are still confused, or feel that you are stronger in some aspects of the language than others, then read our guidance and contact an adviser.