THOMAS ABBOT
The Spanish Ministry of Education has selected BYU as the site in the Mountain States for their worldwide Spanish accreditation test.
This is the third year that BYU has been selected to offer the “Diplomas de Espanol como Lengua Extranjera Exam,” said Quina Hoskisson, associate chair of the Spanish and Portuguese Department. The exam offers international accreditation for citizens of countries where Spanish is not the official language.
The exam tests the ability to read, write, speak and understand Spanish. BYU is offering two exams which test different skill levels. “Diploma Basico” tests high-intermediate levels of ability. People who pass the exam requirements will receive a certificate accrediting them with a sufficient knowledge of the language, allowing communication in customary situations of everyday life. “Diploma Basico” is the lowest level exam offered by BYU, but it is not for beginning speakers, Hoskisson said.
“Diploma Superior” tests the advanced and superior levels of ability. People who meet the requirements of this exam will receive a certificate accrediting them with the necessary knowledge of the language, allowing communication in situations which would require an advanced use and knowledge of the language and culture.
Hoskisson said that the exam is not limited only to BYU students. “Anyone wanting accreditation may take the exam,” she said.
The registration deadline for the exam is Friday. The “Basico” exam costs $50, and the “Superior” exam costs $60. The exams will be given on BYU campus Nov. 23. Registration material and additional information may be obtained in 4040 JKHB.
