Master of Science in Foreign Service

Supplemental Data Sheet (SDS) & Foreign Language Proficiency (FLP)

Effective for the 2008 admissions cycle, MSFS has created a combined Supplemental Data Sheet & Foreign Language Proficiency form.

The new foreign language proficiency form (page two of the document) requires each applicant's self-evaluation of a modern, spoken language. This self-assessment form is mandatory for all MSFS applicants.

Nonnative English speakers must evaluate their English language proficiency on this form. Note that the applicant's native language is considered the language listed under native language on the application form.

The School of Foreign Service requires that each MSFS candidate successfully complete a foreign language oral proficiency examination before graduation. These examinations are given by the language departments at Georgetown University.

For the purposes of this graduation requirement, oral proficiency is defined as the ability to speak the foreign language in a clearly participatory manner and with sufficient fluency and accuracy to discuss political, economic and international issues.

The linguistic skills necessary to function at this level include the ability to narrate and describe with paragraph-length connected discourse in past, present and future time frames.

The MSFS Admissions Committee looks for at least three to four years of university-level language study to fulfill the language requirements.

Study abroad experience is also highly recommended.

Please note that language classes at Georgetown will not be credited toward the master's degree.

Applicants with knowledge of more than one foreign language should provide the evaluation in their strongest language, which should also be the language used to complete the graduation requirement.

Although language study is offered at Georgetown, it is extremely difficult to master a new language during two years of graduate studies.

Information on the foreign language proficiency requirement may also be found on our FAQ webpage.