The Exploratory Latin Exam is a contest aimed at students in grades 3 through 8 who are beginning their Latin learning and not yet taking the National Latin Exam.
REGISTRATION - ADMINISTRATION - COST
Please refer to our Exam Page for information regarding registration, administration and cost.
CONTENT
The ELE looks slightly different for students in different grades:
- Level 1 grades 3 and 4 answer 30 questions, based on the universal sets of Latin vocabulary. (online version Level 1)
- Students in grades 3 and 4 MAY choose to answer all 50 questions. (online version Level 2)
- Level 2 grades 5 through 8 answer all 50 questions. (online version Level 2)
➢ Questions 31-40 are entirely in Latin and include vocabulary from both the universal and extended sets.
➢ Questions 41-50 are based on the thematic section found on the last page and include vocabulary from both the universal and extended sets.
The 2025-2026 updated syllabus (universal, extended, and theme) is available now!
The sets of Latin vocabulary are organized into two groups:
- Universal Sets of Latin Vocabulary: Animals, Body Parts, Cardinal Numerals, Colors, Commands, Family, Oral Latin Essentials, Mottoes and Expressions, Roman Numerals (fluency with numerals I-X), School, Derivatives
- Extended Sets of Latin Vocabulary: Art and Architecture, History and Geography, Mythology (Roman names only), Nature, Ordinal Numerals, Roman Life (clothing, housing, meals), Roman Numerals (fluency with numerals I-C is expected), Time, Roman Entertainment
AWARDS
- All participants will receive ribbons. 2024-2025 Exploratory Latin Exam cut off scores are available.
- Scanned results will be graded on the number of questions attempted.
- Qualifying high scores will earn certificates.
- Perfect scores will earn medallions. Please note that students who opt to take the Level 2 exam must answer all 50 questions correctly to earn a medallion.
- Print your own Certificates of Participation for all of your students. Show your students that you appreciate the hard work they put into preparing for the test!
RESOURCES
Visit this link to order our updated study materials. You MUST be logged into a registered account at aclclassics.org to place an order and complete the checkout process.
Sample Exploratory Latin Exam (answer key for sample exam)
Click this link to access the slides and recording from our 2023-2024 Zoom session on the ELE Exam changes, tips and tricks on preparing your students.
CONTACT
If you have more questions, contact the ELE Chair at elechair@etclassics.org