Do I have to know sign language before I can apply to Gallaudet? Are all students at Gallaudet fluent in ASL when they arrive? Are there programs to help me learn sign language?
These are commonly asked questions from high school students. You may be surprised to learn that many new students at Gallaudet are not fluent in sign language when they arrive on campus. Although you do not need to know sign language before you apply, all classes at Gallaudet are taught in sign language. Our visual environment "levels the playing field" and makes learning more inclusive. We encourage you to begin your foundation in sign language early.
Here are some suggestions for ways you can learn sign language or improve your sign language skills:
- Take a class in your local community. For a list of places that may offer sign language in your community, go to Clerc Center website. This site also includes books and other media resources to help you learn sign language.
- Sign up for a summer class through Gallaudet's Professional Studies and Enrichment Programs. Camp Gallaudet is a program for non-signing deaf and hard of hearing high school students.
- Join the month long New Signers Program in July at Gallaudet. This program is for students who are already accepted to Gallaudet AND who want to learn or improve their sign language skills.
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