Does Spanish for Spanish Speakers count as the two year foreign language for Universities in high school?

Question

I'm applying to some universities and I've sent my transcripts but the two year foreign language requirement hasn't been voided yet. Has anybody experienced this?

Answer 1

The previous person is correct--it depends on the school. Where I teach, if you are a native speaker of another language, the foreign language requirement is totally waived. (Depending on how obvious it is that you are a native speaker, you might be asked to have an interview or an exam to make sure of your skills.)

When that happens, you then have six credits that you can use however you wish for extra enrichment depending on your own interests. Sweet deal! I think it makes perfect sense because I really admire my students who have the skills and the bravery to come to a school and do advanced studies in a language that is not native to them. Not sure I could do as well as most of them are able to do.

Probably that decision is not made when you initially apply, so don't worry if it isn't "instantly" voided. But if you are deciding between a couple schools where you've been accepted, you should ask about each one's policy and procedure for this. It might help you decide which school to attend. Good luck!

Answer 2

This depends on the particular college/university.

Many universities will probably give you advanced placement in Spanish (i.e. you'll start at intermediate level or advanced) but you won't get credit for the courses (pre-university) and will need to take one to two higher level Spanish classes for the requirement to be satisfied.

Some universities may accept your Spanish as meeting requirements although if English is not your native language, may choose to substitute English classes as your foreign language.