Levels are based on speaking ability not writing skills.

Level 1a: Total Beginner
This level is for those with no background in the target language, or for those who have studied previously, but who still need to start learning from the very beginning.

Level 1b: Mid-Beginner
This level is for students who already know and can use the very basics (e.g. greetings, numbers, colors, basic verbs, etc.) either through previous study or by completing Level 1a with ABC.

Level 1c: Upper-Beginner
Students at this level should have working knowledge of the conversational basics and be ready to work on solidifying their knowledge as they prepare to move on to an intermediate level. Students who have taken recent beginner courses in the target language, or those who have completed ABC’s level 1a and 1b are appropriate to join.

Level 2a: Lower Intermediate
This level is apt for students who have a command of basic conversational skills in the target language and who would like to start learning more complex structures. Students who have recently completed up to 6 months of course work, an immersion program abroad of under 6 months, or those who have completed ABC’s levels 1a, 1b and 1c, will be prepared for this level. Students who complete one of ABC’s “Fast Track” courses are also ready for this level.

Level 2b: Mid-Intermediate
Students with conversational skills at a solid intermediate level in the target language are ideal for this level. Students typically will have recently completed 6 months to one year of course work, or have completed an abroad program of under a year.

Level 2c: Upper Intermediate
This level is best for students with upper-intermediate conversational skills and who would like to continue to improve as they prepare to go on to advanced level programs. Students should have already learned and know how to use the most common grammatical structures and conversational content.

Levels 3a, 3b & 3c: Advanced
Levels 3a, 3b and 3c are for advanced students looking to hone their skills. Each level description can be found in the class offerings announcement, since level descriptions vary depending on the language. If you are an advanced student, you may also request private or semi-private lessons tailored to your specific needs.

Fast Track Level
This is for students who previously spent more than a year learning a foreign language within the U.S. or have done an immersion program abroad, but have essentially forgotten how to speak. If you find yourself saying “I understand XYZ language, but can no longer speak it”, this is an ideal program for you. It is a review course that starts from the very beginning but moves at 3 times the speed of a normal beginner class. You will be ready to join an intermediate group by the end of this course.

Int-Adv Conversation
This level is for anyone who is conversational and can express themselves in the target language, and would like to improve their speaking skills. It is a mixed-level course for upper intermediate and advanced speakers. The course is designed as a conversation course and focuses on speaking, while touching on some grammar points. Students who are looking to reinforce and expand their conversational skills are ideal for this level.