Solution:
"Whether" is proper because the inquiry is about a choice rather than a condition. A singular verb is required for the statement "the number of," thus "was" is correct.
The question presents a sentence, part of which or all of which is underlined. Beneath the sentences, you will find four ways of phrasing the underlined part. Select whichever is most suitable. If it is correct, select "No Change". The administration discussed whether the number of students studying European languages was likely to decline when the senior lecturer retired.
"Whether" is proper because the inquiry is about a choice rather than a condition. A singular verb is required for the statement "the number of," thus "was" is correct.