Foreign Languages for University Admissions - Setting Up for Success

College admissions is a competitive process - anyone will tell you that. While most universities do not require students to be proficient in a second language, having those skills can prove to be an advantage for your applications. These language skills could be as simple as speaking a mother tongue at home, or as advanced as taking advanced Latin classes. In this article we will highlight some of the benefits of studying languages for your university application.

In today's globalized world, language skills have become an indispensable asset with far-reaching implications. As borders blur and interactions between nations and cultures increase, effective communication becomes the cornerstone of success in various domains. Language skills serve as the key to unlocking opportunities in business, diplomacy, and academia, as they facilitate cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. Embracing language learning not only enriches one's personal and professional life but also contributes to a more interconnected, tolerant, and prosperous global community. 

The world of higher education is not immune to this change. Universities are now actively seeking to create a diverse and inclusive learning environment by attracting students, faculty, and researchers from different countries and backgrounds. This trend is reshaping the landscape of higher education and is likely to continue evolving as the world becomes increasingly interdependent. In this environment having language skills can prove to be a big advantage for a successful college application. 

Do universities require language skills for admissions?

Most universities do not list their foreign language requirements. Some schools may recommend you take another language in high school but don’t make it mandatory. You should check program requirements to see what colleges expect of you. Usually, colleges expect you to take at least two years of a single foreign language. 

Some colleges strongly recommend (but don't require) you to take a foreign language in high school. This means that while the admissions committee would prefer to see foreign language classes on your transcript, they won't disqualify your application if you didn't take any.

Listen to Crimson student Oscar on how languages played a part in his admission to UPenn.

Here is a sample list of top universities’ language requirements:

Advantages of Language Skills for College Admissions

Having language skills can provide several advantages for college admissions, making applicants stand out and enhancing their overall profile. Some of the key advantages include:

• Demonstrating Cultural Awareness: Language skills showcase a student's interest in and understanding of other cultures. Admissions committees appreciate applicants who can demonstrate cultural awareness and sensitivity, as it aligns with the values of diversity and inclusion that many universities uphold.
• Academic Versatility: Proficiency in multiple languages can enhance a student's academic versatility. Language skills can be an asset across various disciplines, such as international relations, literature, history, and even STEM fields with global collaborations.
• Competitive Edge: In a competitive admissions landscape, language skills can set applicants apart from their peers. It shows dedication, commitment, and a willingness to go beyond the standard academic requirements, which can be highly attractive to admissions officers.
• Access to Language-Specific Programs: Some colleges and universities offer specialized programs, courses, or majors that require language proficiency. Having language skills opens doors to such opportunities, giving students access to unique academic paths.
• Study Abroad Opportunities: Many colleges encourage students to participate in study abroad programs. Language skills can significantly enhance the study abroad experience by enabling students to immerse themselves more fully in the culture and academics of the host country.
• Global Perspective: Language skills provide students with a broader global perspective, enabling them to engage with international issues, think critically about global challenges, and become informed global citizens.
• Research Opportunities: Language proficiency can be beneficial for students interested in research, as it grants access to a wider range of academic literature and primary sources in different languages.
• Internship and Job Prospects: Employers often value language skills, especially in multinational corporations or organizations with international operations. Language proficiency can open up a range of job opportunities and enhance a student's resume.
• Scholarships and Grants: Some universities and organizations offer scholarships or grants to students with language proficiency, further incentivizing language learning and easing the financial burden of education.
• Networking and Communication Skills: Language skills improve interpersonal and communication abilities, enabling students to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and build lasting relationships that can be valuable throughout their academic and professional careers.

Tips for Language Learning

Language learning can be an enriching and rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging. Here are some valuable tips to help you make the most of your language learning journey:

• Set Clear Goals: Define specific and achievable language learning goals. Whether it's becoming conversational for travel or mastering the language for academic purposes, clear objectives will keep you motivated and focused.
• Immerse Yourself: Immerse yourself in the language as much as possible. Surround yourself with movies, TV shows, music, podcasts, and books in the target language. This exposure will improve your listening skills and familiarize you with colloquial language.
• Practice Speaking: Don't be afraid to speak! Practice speaking with native speakers or language partners, even if you make mistakes. Speaking regularly will boost your confidence and improve your fluency.
• Consistency is Key: Establish a consistent study routine. Short, regular practice sessions are more effective than infrequent, long sessions. Find a schedule that fits your lifestyle and stick to it.
• Use Language Apps and Resources: Utilize language learning apps like Duolingo, Memrise, or Anki, which offer interactive and gamified lessons. Additionally, websites, textbooks, and language exchange platforms can provide valuable resources. Participate in language learning groups or take formal classes. Being part of a community can provide support, motivation, and accountability.
• Learn Vocabulary in Context: Instead of memorizing isolated words, learn vocabulary in context. Use sentences and phrases to understand how words are used naturally. Create flashcards to reinforce vocabulary and grammar concepts. Digital flashcard apps can be particularly helpful for spaced repetition learning.
• Embrace Mistakes: Making mistakes is a natural part of learning. View errors as opportunities for improvement and learning rather than as failures.

Remember, language learning is a journey, and it's okay to progress at your own pace. Stay curious, stay dedicated, and enjoy the process of discovering a new language and culture!

Final Thoughts

Multilingual individuals possess a unique advantage in navigating the complexities of a globalized landscape, as they can bridge cultural divides, foster cross-border collaborations, and navigate international business environments with ease. Moreover, their ability to communicate in multiple languages allows them to tap into diverse markets, pursue unique career opportunities, and engage in meaningful exchanges with people from different backgrounds. As the world becomes more interconnected, multilingualism will undoubtedly be a defining trait for those seeking to thrive in this dynamic, ever-evolving global community. Embracing linguistic diversity and investing in language learning will undoubtedly lead multilingual individuals towards a future full of exciting possibilities and a genuine understanding of our interconnected humanity.

FAQs

What languages are particularly useful for college applications?

While any foreign language skill is good, learning Spanish, German, French, Latin, Arabic or Mandarin will be particularly useful for your college application.

Can I be conversational at home but not take a language at school?

This is an interesting situation. You could probably demonstrate your fluency in the language through your essay, but universities usually want to see some units of study to prove your fluency.

How "good" do I need to be in a foreign language?

Every university is different in terms of their requirements. However, most will expect you to be able to carry on a conversation after a minimum two years of study.

Is being proficient in coding languages more advantageous than traditional language?

When it comes to university admissions, traditional languages and coding languages fall into two separate categories. Coding cannot fulfill language requirements. However, if you plan on pursuing computer science or a similar field of study, it is advisable to have some coding knowledge.

Is it better to speak a little bit of multiple languages or be fluent in one?

Not really. Most universities specifically say that students should have multiple years in the same language. This means they expect you to be an expert at one rather than be able to speak a smattering of many languages.

Does the language you choose matter?

The language is not really important, unless you plan on pursuing a subject of study that would directly benefit from your language of choice. For eg. Latin might not have real world use, but would be helpful if you plan on studying law. In the same way if you plan on studying Arabic in college, it would be helpful to have studied it in high school as well.