Students must pass sight translation examinations in order to graduate with a major in classics. Those electing the Greek and Latin form of the major must pass all four sight examinations. Other majors must take the exams in the language relevant to their variety of the major: Greek for Greek majors, Latin for Latin majors, the language the student has studied most for Classical Civilization majors.

All majors may, if they choose, take the exams in both languages to demonstrate proficiency. There is no limit to the number of times that a student may take the exams.

In any given year the exams take place during each semester on the Wednesday of the 8th, 9th, 11th and 12th full week of classes in the following order: Greek Prose, Latin Prose, Greek Verse, Latin Verse. 

Spring 2023 exams will be given on Wednesdays at 4:15 p.m. ET on the following dates:

  • March 22: Greek Prose
  • March 29: Latin Prose 
  • April 12: Greek Verse
  • April 19: Latin Verse