FAQ

In the academic year 2025-2026, we will allow external registrants to enroll in language courses, for learning purposes only, without receiving any credits (no exams or certificate). Registrants may sign up for any language course, except for the "intensive" level, at a cost of NIS 2,650 per year.

1) Who May Take the Test?

The exemption test is intended for students with extensive language knowledge. Students who have studied a foreign language at another institution may apply to be admitted to an advanced course or be exempted as part of the university's requirements.

Students registered for a language course cannot take the placement exams during the academic year, they can only take it in the October exam.

A student who has only taken the first semester of a course, may not take an exemption test that year, unless he / she presents a certificate from the faculty where he is studying, which states that language studies is the final requirement for completing his / her degree.

2) When can I take the test?

Tests are conducted twice a year, at the end of the first semester and before the start of the school year. Exact dates can be checked on the Division's website https://en-languages.tau.ac.il/exam-schedule

3) When and how to register?

The registration must take place two weeks before the deadline at the Division of Languages, Webb building, Room 205, every day from 10:00-12:00, or at 03-6409681/ 6409465.

Registration fee: 200NIS.

4) Is it allowed to use a dictionary?

You can use a standard dictionary or an electronic dictionary without an internet connection. Using a laptop is not allowed. For French examinees, using Becherelle is not allowed.

5) What is the test structure?

The test consists mostly of text and content questions that need to be answered briefly. There are also questions in grammar. Some of the tests include an essay, and some include sections for translation. The test format is not fixed and may change from time to time. The sample tests are only indicative of the required level. The test duration is 3 hours.

6) Is it possible to answer in Hebrew?

You must answer in the language you are tested in unless otherwise noted.

7) What is a “passing” grade?

A grade of 85 or higher entitles the examiner to an exemption. A score between 60 and 84 allows the examiner to register for an advanced level course.

8) I learned a foreign language abroad. Do I have to be tested?

Students seeking either exemption from language studies or placement in the advanced class based on studies abroad are required to meet with the language studies coordinator to evaluate their proficiency through conversation and other tasks. Students must present original documentation of their studies and prove their knowledge. Instead, students may choose to take the exemption exam, for a fee of 150NIS, on the scheduled dates.

9) Can I get the test topics list?

There is no list of topics. The test comes to test the student's ability to deal with academic material in the chosen language. The test does not examine one grammatical topic or another, but the student's ability to understand academic text.

10) I learned a foreign language in high school. Should I take the test?

A student who has studied 5 matriculation units, is not eligible for exemption. In order to receive an exemption he must take the placement exam.

Language Studies Coordinators

French Studies Coordinator – Mrs. Gluzman, Tania

tatyana3@tauex.tau.ac.il

Spanish Studies Coordinator – Mrs. Monica Broido

monic@tauex.tau.ac.il

German Studies Coordinator – Mrs. Peled, Doris
doris@tauex.tau.ac.il

Russian Studies Coordinator – Dr. Niznick, Marina

marinan@post.tau.ac.il

Turkish Studies Coordinator - Deborah Shechter

ushechte@tauex.tau.ac.il