COM 2 Exemptions

The COM 2 general education requirement is satisfied when a student demonstrates 'functional ability' in a second language. For most modern languages, 'functional ability' is defined as the ability to read, write, speak, and understand speech at an 'intermediate-low' level on the scale of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL). Intermediate proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) may also be used to fulfill the requirement, but a proficiency interview may be required to justify student abilities. The intermediate-low level corresponds to the upper range of A2/lower range of B1 on the Common European Frame of Reference (CEFR).

Most University of Richmond students meet this standard through a combination of secondary-level studies and courses at the University. International students who have been educated in a language other than English and submit TOEFL scores for admission have already satisfied COM 2. For more information about this, please see the language requirement section of the New Spiders web.

Students who were raised abroad but educated in English, who spent one or more years in a non-English school environment, or who have acquired 'functional' language ability through experience may qualify for a COM 2 exemption if they can demonstrate 'intermediate' proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. To request an exemption in a language regularly taught at the University of Richmond, contact either Latin American, Latino, and Iberian Studies (for languages used in Iberia and Latin America) or Languages, Literatures, and Cultures. The Administrative Coordinator will direct you to someone who can assess your language ability. This may involve a placement test, oral interview, and writing sample.

To request an exemption in a language not regularly taught at the University, e.g., Hindi, Korean, Cantonese, begin by completing this form and assembling any documentation you have of your language proficiency (school transcripts, certificates, etc.). You should receive a follow-up contact within ten business days.

If you don't have documentation or if your documentation is insufficient to prove that you meet the standard, you will be asked to schedule an evaluation. You may be asked to pay $25 to cover the costs of this evaluation.

Request a COM 2 Exemption

All students requesting COM 2 exemption will need complete the form below. If you have documentation supporting your request, please submit materials using the the Box upload tool at the bottom of the page.