Does Queen's University accept French A: Language and Literature HL?

💡Expert's Take

“A VALUABLE CREDIT – BUT THE PLACEMENT TEST RULES ALL

The Good News: Queen's typically grants FREN 150 (6.0 units) for French A HL (Score 5+). This is a massive win that clears 6.0 units of degree requirements instantly.

The Reality Check (Course Codes):

The Split: FREN 150 is the administrative equivalent of FREN 151 + FREN 152.

The Level: This is "Intermediate French." Since you took French A (Native/Near-Native), you are likely overqualified for this content.

The "Placement Test" Trap:

Even though you have the credit, if you want to take more French courses (e.g., for a Minor), you generally MUST take the Queen's Placement Test.

The Scenario: The test will likely identify you as "Advanced" and may bar you from taking FREN 151/152 (because they are too easy for you).

The Result: You keep the FREN 150 transfer credit on your transcript (as elective credit), but you will likely start your actual university studies at the 200-level gateway (FREN 230/231).

Strategic Advice:

For Non-Majors (General Arts/Science):

TAKE THE CREDIT. It is 6.0 units of "free" electives. You never have to step foot in a French classroom again, and you've saved ~$1,200+ in tuition (provided this reduces your total unit load).

For French Majors/Minors:

TAKE THE CREDIT, but expect a jump.

Your IB credit gives you the units, but the Placement Test will likely skip you ahead to FREN 230/231.

Do not plan to retake FREN 150/151/152. It will be boring for a French A student, and the department may not permit enrollment based on your placement results.

Bottom Line: You have the units in the bag. The only question is which course the department will let you take next.”