Foreign Language Placement Test Trouble

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of Southern California
1

<p>Okay, so I'm sort of freaking out right now. I planned to take the French language test this evening, so I started the computer, went to the site, filled out the pre-survey and then waited at the page where it said, "Start Test Now". I (stupidly) decided to take a couple more minutes to review my material. After going over a list of verb conjugations, I felt prepared to start the test. </p>

<p>So, I hit the Start Test button, and it completely froze. Not only that, but when I hit restart, the page wouldn't restart, and my computer was like "I don't think so" and closed the window. So I had to reopen the window and restart the page.</p>

<p>I was a little worried because I had read all of the disclaimers saying that during the test, if the window closes or if you log out then that's that, and the test can't be restarted. However, I reasoned to myself, I hadn't actually started the test. The page hadn't loaded. I hadn't touched a question.</p>

<p>But much to my dismay, when I went to Fill out Language Survey, the only options available to me were German, Russian, and Spanish. I literally was not able to click to take the French test.</p>

<p>So, I'm basically in a state of nervous panic, but I've sort of resigned myself to retaking it physically unless by some miracle, the Testing Bureau can restart the darn thing. I called them and left a message, but they won't call back till Monday and by then I'm screwed. This also means that I don't make the Orientation Deadline which I'm worried will have further consequences...</p>

<p>Sigh. Has this happened to anybody before? Are there any words of encouragement anybody can offer? A rant on the perils of technology and time management would also be appropriate. </p>

<p>:[</p>

2

<p>A similar thing happened to me with the Spanish test! Internet explorer wouldn't load the page. I never saw the test! And yes, I totally freaked out too. It's so frustrating that they don't have some sort of an appeals process, but I think it's because they don't want people to look at the test "accidently" shut off their computer and then retake it to score higher.</p>

<p>I contacted USC and they said you can not take the placement test on-line again, however there will be testing oppurtunities sometime. I can't remember exactly when...maybe when you register for classes...so orientation? I'll have to see if i can find the e-mail. But there are options.</p>

<p>It's nothing that will haunt you the rest of your college career, although on my completeion of pre-orientation homework it says I scored 0 out of 40 on the test, but I think I'll get over that...eventually. :-) </p>

<p>So, yes you can complete the pre-orientation homework and come to freshman orientation, it just looks like you scored 0.</p>

3

<p>Sorry, I found the e-mail. Here it is:</p>

<p>"There is no appeal process to reset your scores. As you checked off, even a computer malfunction is not reason to reset. You will need to take the on-campus written tests offered at the Testing Bureau. You can visit their website at USC</a> Testing Bureau for a list of dates it is offered.</p>

<p>You will not be able to register for your foreign language class/requirement until you have completed the exam. However, there is only a three semester requirement, meaning you do not have to take it during the first semester.</p>

<p>Sincerely,</p>

<p>Session Coordinator
University of Southern California | Division of Student Affairs
851 Downey Way | Los Angeles, CA | 90089-0921
PH: 213.740.7767 | Fax: 213.740.3788 | <a href="http://www.usc.edu/orientation"&gt;www.usc.edu/orientation&lt;/a&gt;"&lt;/p>

<p>Life goes on, although I really wish my computer had just worked the first time!</p>

4

<p>Wow thanks, that makes me feel better. :]</p>

<p>Arrghhhhhhh I know, it says 0/40 and I'm like... Rats. Sigh. Oh well. Thanks for all your help! It makes me feel loads better to know I'm not the only one who screwed it up haha. </p>

<p>One little different click could have saved me so much time! If only!</p>

5

<p>This happened to me too (for the Spanish test)!
I just went to USC and took the paper exam like two weeks ago :)</p>