FAQ

1. What does the Centre for Modern Languages do?
   The Centre for Modern Languages (CML) offers free language elective courses in a range of Asian and European languages from introductory to intermediate levels (CEFR A1 – B2). Known as Modern Language Electives, these courses offer students of different disciplines the opportunity to experience the intellectual and personal enrichment that comes with learning new languages, as well as discovering the diverse cultures that they represent. Undergraduate students can also study towards a Minor in Modern Languages.
2. How do these language courses differ from other General Elective (GE) courses?
   Our language courses are open to all undergraduates in NTU and NIE as well as postgraduate students. Some of our courses have specific pre-requisites. Each language course is credited with 3 Academic Units and is conducted 3 hours weekly for all Levels 1 and 2 modules and 4 hours weekly for Levels 3 and above, from Week 2 to Week 13 of the semester. Our language courses are open to all undergraduates in NTU and NIE. Some of our courses have specific pre-requisites.
3. Why do the language courses require a pre-requisite for registration?
   Language learning depends on your state of readiness to learn and master that language. Mastery is not only sequentially developed over time but the progress is also systematic and incremental in nature. At Level 1 or the introductory stage, there is no pre-requisite. However, all students enrolled at Level 1 must declare that they have no previous knowledge of the language. This would mean that the student should not have studied that language previously at "O" or "A" levels while in school or at any other educational institutions or on their own (e.g. via internet or online course sites). Admission to Level 2 and above will depend on attaining a passing grade in the lower level course and/or taking a placement test.
4. Is there a final examination to assess language courses?
   All the language courses are assessed via continuous assessment (100% CA). There will be NO final examinations for students who are registered in our courses.
5. How do I enrol for the language courses?
   All language courses are open for online registration every semester through STARS (Student Automated Registration System). Please abide by the procedures and rules that govern the registration process. For example, you must check that the language course of your choice does not clash with your own school timetables. If the language course that you have chosen is not to your liking, you must drop it before the end of the "Add/Drop" period. Graduate and Exchange students need to follow the respective registration requirements outlined on the CML Registration page.
6. What if I do not get the language course of my choice?
   The Office of Academic Services assigns students from the waitlist in accordance with its set of registration criteria. It is always wise to register for an alternative language course (and to attend both courses initially) in case you do not get your first choice. However, you must drop the alternative course before the end of the Add/Drop period.
7. Can I repeat a language course if I fail?
   Yes, you can. There is no re-examination but you may register for the course again or select another language course in subsequent semesters to fulfil your General Elective requirement before graduation.
8. Can I continue my language studies if I have chosen the S/U option for one level?
   Yes, you can. There is restrictions pertaining to the S/U option. You only need to pass the module in order to continue your language studies. If you are working towards a Minor in Modern Languages, please see the 2 points below.

(1) For students on the Interdisciplinary Collaborative Core (ICC) Curriculum (full-time students admitted to Year 1 from AY2021-22, and full-time students admitted directly to Year 2 from AY2022-23):  Up to 6 AUs of courses for the Minor can be non-letter graded i.e., may consist of credits transferred from Student Exchange programme, or courses with 'P' (Pass) or 'S' (Satisfactory) notations.

(2) Full-time students admitted in AY2020-2021 and earlier / Full-time students admitted directly to Year 2 in AY2021-2022:
- Courses with exercised S/U options cannot be counted towards the fulfillment of minor programme.

9. Is class attendance compulsory?
Attending classes is important when learning a new language, as language learning is progressive. You should attend your classes regularly otherwise you will end up with large knowledge gaps that will be difficult to close later.

10. When in doubt, whom do I consult?
You should seek the advice of your School Counsellor or Mentor. You can also contact CML at 6513 7634 or visit us at HSS-02-19 (CML).