STAMP Test

If you’re a current undergraduate student fluent in a language other than English, consider taking the Standards-based Measurement of Proficiency (STAMP) Test. If you pass, you can earn up to 12 NIU credit hours in the target language. You can only take the exam once to earn credits in one language.

This test is separate from the foreign language placement exam.

Should I Take the Exam?

The STAMP test assesses your reading, writing, speaking and listening skills in a target language. To pass it, you need to have a high level of fluency (be able to conduct business and write a short college-level essay in the target language). You also must be fluent in English to read the instructions.

If you come to NIU with fewer than 12 foreign language AP credits, you can take the test to earn additional credits (up to 12).

How to Take the Exam

The test costs $60 and takes one to two hours to complete. To register, follow these steps:

  1. Access the exam registration system.
  2. Under Choose a Group, select “STAMP (Zoom taken remotely proctored virtually).”
  3. Complete the rest of the form.

Results

Within about two weeks of taking the test, you'll receive your results from the Department of World Languages and Cultures. If you pass the test, you'll receive:

  • Up to 12 credit hours (awarded at the end of a successfully completed semester)
  • An official notation on your academic transcript
  • A certificate of fluency you can share with employers

Contact Us

Testing Services
Peters Campus Life Building 120
815-753-1203
testing@niu.edu

Hours

Monday-Friday
8 a.m.-noon
1-4:30 p.m.

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