Foreign Language Requirement (Form and Instructions)

Please note that there are several ways to fulfill the foreign language requirement (see the graduate handbook policy below).

For graduate students who are planning to advance soon, please make sure you submit this form as soon as possible.  You must have completed the foreign language requirement before you defend your prospectus.

VI. Foreign Language Requirement

The foreign language requirement is satisfied by passing the 6th quarter or 4th semester of a 2-year language class sequence with a grade of B or better. Any course beyond the first two years also meets the requirement.

*If you took this at another institution, please provide the transcript with your language petition.

An alternative method is to take a language exam at UCLA. The requirement is satisfied if an instructor in one of UCLA’s language departments certifies comprehension at the second-year level.

If research methodology is more useful to you than a foreign language, the foreign language requirement can be met by taking three quantitative methods courses at the PS 200A level or above. Typically, students satisfy this requirement with PS 200A, 200B and 200C. All courses must be graded.

The foreign language (or research methodology) requirement should be passed before you take your oral Ph.D. exam. It must be passed before you will be advanced to candidacy, and no later than your 15th quarter in the program.

If you have satisfied your foreign language requirement, please fill out this form below and send it to Esther Blair or Agustin Arrendondo as soon as possible:  https://grad.ucla.edu/gasaa/library/lngpetition.pdf.  Please remember to attach your transcript/paperwork showing how you satisfied the requirement.  If you are using your native language to satisfy it, no additional paperwork is needed (beyond the form).