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Modern Languages

UFV/Modern Languages/Student resources/Challenge a course

Challenge a course

Prior Learning Assessment 

Prior Learning Assessment (PLAR) is a process that gives you the opportunity to receive credit for what you already know and can do. Students with previous knowledge and/or experience with one of our languages can receive credit for a course(s) by applying for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR).

The only method of PLAR in the Modern Languages department (MOLA) is to challenge the course. Most UFV language courses may be challenged for credit. This means that a student who can demonstrate mastery of course objectives may be granted credit without attending classes (however, registration and payment are still required). Challenge courses require instructor and department head permission. The number of tests, exams and essays to write in order to challenge a course varies according to the course level and instructor.

If you have any questions regarding the challenge process, contact us at 604.557.4035 or via email at mola@ufv.ca.

How to challenge a course:

1

Select a course

You can view all MOLA course descriptions in the UFV Academic Calendar. If you are uncertain which course is appropriate for you, please contact the department for an assessment.

2

Contact the instructor

If you know the instructor of the course you would like to challenge, contact the instructor with your request. Include the course you would like to challenge and give a brief summary of your previous language learning. View contact information for MOLA faculty. If you do not know the instructor of the course you wish to challenge, contact the MOLA department assistant.

3

Department Assistant sets up course

Once the instructor has approved your course challenge request, the MOLA department assistant sets up a challenge section of the course with its own Course Registration Number (CRN). The MOLA department assistant contacts you once the course is set up.

4

Register

You can then register in the course online (up to the end of the first week of classes), over the phone, and in-person on any campus. For locations and office hours, contact the Office of Registrar. The cost of challenging a course is typically 75% of the regular course tuition (up to a maximum of 12 credits).

5

Complete requirements

The instructor determines the required coursework (assignments and exams), and completion dates. Completion dates typically fall within the associated semester.

6

Instructor assessement

Upon completion of the course, you can view your final grade(s) in myUFV.

"In my first year I realized that my passion was with French and it was something that was super enjoyable. I wasn't fluent to begin so it was a lot of work and effort but at the same time it was very rewarding. It opened my eyes to a new culture and a new way of life.

  • – Raymond Kobes
  •    Bachelor of Arts, French major and Business minor
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