Understanding language placement
Overview/Background
SOATEST is used to view and manage foreign language placement scores
These scores directly impact: student registration eligibility
Incorrect or missing data can prevent students from registering and create downstream issues for advising and registration
Important: Language placement and Credit by Exam are separate processes.
Placement → entered directly in Banner (SOATEST) by LLC
Credit by Exam → submitted via ticket → posted by Registrar
Before you begin
You must have a valid placement code
“Waiting” or placeholders are not acceptable
Codes must match the correct language and level
Enter only one placement record per student per test
If you are unsure of the correct code → stop and confirm before entering
Critical Rules for Placement Codes
Codes are specific and intentional
A higher-level code does not imply access to lower-level courses
Banner does not interpret intent; it only enforces the code provided
Incorrect codes will result in registration errors
Roles and responsibilities
Language Learning Center (LLC)
Determines and enters language placement codes directly in Banner (SOATEST)
Registrar’s Office
Posts Credit by Exam (CE) to the student’s academic record after a ticket is submitted with complete and accurate information
Advising
Relies on placement outcomes for registration support
Entering test scores
See: Viewing and managing AP, IB, and foreign language placement scores (SOATEST)
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
Error | Why It Happens | What To Do Instead |
|---|---|---|
Credit by exam submitted as placement | Confusion of responsibilities | Submit credit by exam via ticket; do not enter as placement |
Placement sent to Registrar | Misunderstanding of process | Enter placement directly in Banner (LLC responsibility) |
Effects on students when incorrectly entered
Missing or invalid code
→ Student cannot register
→ Advising escalations
Incorrect placement code
→ Student blocked from correct courses
→ Manual intervention required
Duplicate records
→ Degree audit inaccuracies
→ Cleanup required
Incorrect CE vs placement handling
→ Academic record errors
→ Compliance risk
Resolving issues
Placement errors must be corrected directly in Banner by LLC
Do not route placement corrections through the Registrar
Do not rely on forwarding requests to others without resolution
Corrections should be made promptly to avoid student impact