Heritage Speaker

[lawsuitduck]

Hello! I'm a bit confused about the language form on the USAFA application. I speak Mandarin exclusively at home, but wasn't sure if I could pass a proficiency test since I can only read and write the latinized form of Mandarin (pinyin), but my ability in Chinese characters (hanzi) is limited. I would say at a conversational level I'm somewhat fluent in listening and can speak as well. Any recommendations?

 

[Capt MJ]

What is the prompt on the language form? What specifically is being asked that is confusing? That will better enable informed responses. SAF posters are a pretty savvy bunch but not mentalists, and if they are not a current cycle applicant, they won’t know the form.

And, your primary source for all questions is the USAFA website and USAFA Admissions points of contact, for accurate, official answers.
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[Josiah]

Be honest about your Mandarin skills on the USAFA application. Emphasize conversational fluency but mention limited reading/writing in Chinese characters. Consider taking a pinyin-based proficiency test if possible. Contact USAFA admissions for specific guidance.