<p>If you go to the Dartmouth web site and search on “language placement” you’ll get lots of detailed info. It appears that placement is done primarily by either standardized test scores (AP, SATII, A levels, IB, et al) or by placement test. The Spanish dept, for example, offers an online placement test in August.</p>
<p>The best way to get accurate info for your student’s situation is to go directly to the department web site.</p>
<p>BTW, lots of kids start new languages at D, so I doubt anyone would find themselves in a class with people who have already studied the subject. </p>
<p>Now, I’ve heard that some kids do choose to repeat Chem and Econ, both of which may be “weeder” classes, in order to boost their grade.</p>