LACS welcomes Cornell undergraduates in all fields of study who are interested in studying and conducting research in Latin America to apply for the Latin American studies minor. 

Language Requirement

Proficiency in Spanish or Portuguese can be demonstrated in one of two ways: 

1. By passing a Romance Studies Department CASE language proficiency test at a Q++ level. Language proficiency tests are only available at the beginning of each semester, so please plan accordingly. Before taking the CASE exam, you need to take the COLLT (Cornell On-Line Language Test) for Spanish. Questions? Email Sam Lupowitz.
   -OR-
2. Successfully completing SPAN 2095 (or one Spanish course at a higher level if you tested out of 2095) or PORT 2010 or 2020 language course. (FLAC courses count towards the 15 elective credits below but not the minor's language requirement.)

Elective Courses

In addition to the language requirement, minor candidates must complete a minimum of 15 credits in approved Latin American studies elective courses (listed as LATA in the Cornell course catalog). Students must earn a B or higher in these courses. 

1. Selected courses must represent at least two different departments. LATA 4000 does not count toward this requirement.
2. Students must complete at least one advanced level course in Latin American studies (3000-4000 level). LATA 4000 does not count toward this requirement.
3. We don't require, but highly recommend, at least one semester of participation in the LATA 4000 (LACS Seminar Series).

If you would like to petition for a course or a study abroad semester to count towards the minor, please contact LACS to share the course syllabus.

While students may earn both the Latin American studies minor and Caribbean studies minor, no more than two overlapping elective courses may count toward both. Learn more about our Caribbean studies undergraduate minor and Latin American studies graduate minor. 

How to Apply

If you wish to start working towards your minor or have already completed the requirements, please click the “apply” button below. Fill out the online application form as fully as possible, even if you haven't completed all required coursework.

If you have questions, reach out to lacs@cornell.edu to set up an appointment. 

Apply