Language Tests for US University Admissions
A comprehensive guide to language proficiency requirements, accepted tests, and preparation resources for applying to universities in the USA.
English Proficiency Test Comparison
Top University Score Requirements
Test Features Comparison
Demonstrating English proficiency is a crucial step in your application to US universities. This guide will help you navigate test requirements, preparation, and submission.
Almost all US universities require international students from non-English speaking countries to demonstrate English language proficiency as part of their application. These requirements ensure that students have the necessary language skills to succeed academically and socially during their studies in the United States.
- International students whose native language is not English
- Students who have not completed at least 3 years of education in English-speaking schools
- Transfer students from non-English instruction universities
- Graduate program applicants (sometimes with higher requirements)
- Citizens of countries where English is the official language
- Students who completed a degree at an accredited institution where English was the primary language of instruction
- Students who achieved certain scores on English sections of the SAT/ACT
- Students with AP English Language or Literature scores of 4 or 5
Important Considerations
Most universities require official score reports sent directly from the testing organization. Plan ahead as score reporting can take 1-3 weeks.
Test scores are typically valid for 2 years from the test date. Ensure your scores will be valid throughout the admissions process.
Requirements vary widely between institutions and sometimes between programs within the same university. Always check the specific requirements.
Some universities offer conditional admission if you don't meet the minimum language requirements, often requiring completion of an intensive English program before beginning your degree.
Which Test to Choose?
Test Acceptance by University Type
Language Skills Assessed
Reading
Understanding academic texts, research papers, and complex materials
Writing
Composing coherent essays, research papers, and formal correspondence
Listening
Comprehending lectures, discussions, and academic conversations
Speaking
Expressing ideas clearly, participating in discussions, giving presentations
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is the most widely accepted English proficiency test for US university admissions. Developed by Educational Testing Service (ETS), it specifically measures your ability to use and understand English at the university level and evaluates how well you combine your reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills to perform academic tasks.
Reading60-80 minutes
30-40 questions
3-4 academic passages from university textbooks
Listening60-90 minutes
28-39 questions
Lectures, classroom discussions and conversations
Speaking17 minutes
4 tasks
Express an opinion on a familiar topic; speak based on reading and listening tasks
Writing50 minutes
2 tasks
Write essay responses based on reading and listening tasks; support an opinion in writing
Total test time: approximately 3 hours
Section Scores
Total Score
0-120 points (sum of all sections)
Score Release
Results available approximately 6-10 days after the test date
Primary Test Options
- TOEFL iBT
Internet-based test taken at a testing center
- TOEFL iBT Home Edition
Same test content, taken from home with online proctoring
- TOEFL Paper Edition
Limited availability in certain regions
Registration & Fees
- • Registration available online via the ETS website
- • Cost: $195-255 USD (varies by location)
- • Late registration fee: $40 additional
- • Rescheduling fee: $60
Score Requirements for US Universities
| University Tier | Undergraduate | Graduate | Business/Law | Ph.D. Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ivy League & Top 10 | 100-110 | 100-110 | 105-110 | 105-110 |
| Top 50 Universities | 90-100 | 90-100 | 100-105 | 100-105 |
| State Universities | 80-90 | 80-90 | 90-100 | 90-100 |
| Other 4-Year Colleges | 70-80 | 75-85 | 80-90 | 85-95 |
| Community Colleges | 60-70 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
These are general ranges. Always check the specific requirements of each institution and program.
Preparation Resources
Full-length practice tests from ETS with real past questions
Free 8-week planner to structure your preparation
Self-paced course from the test makers
Free preparation videos and practice
Tips for Success
Familiarize yourself with the test format and timing for each section
Practice with official sample questions and full-length practice tests
Improve your academic vocabulary with word lists specific for TOEFL
Practice note-taking for the listening section
Record yourself speaking to improve fluency and pronunciation
Learn the structure expected for the writing tasks
Time yourself during practice to build stamina and speed
Focus on understanding the scoring rubrics for speaking and writing
Official Website & Registration
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally recognized English language proficiency test jointly managed by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English. IELTS is widely accepted by universities across the United States and tests all four language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
IELTS Academic
The version required for university admissions. Assesses if you're ready to study in an English-speaking environment.
IELTS General Training
For work experience, training programs, or migration purposes. Not typically accepted for university admissions.
Test Delivery Formats
- IELTS on Paper
Traditional paper-based test with in-person speaking test
- IELTS on Computer
Computer-delivered test with in-person speaking test
Listening30 minutes
40 questions
Four recorded conversations and monologues
Reading60 minutes
40 questions
Three long academic texts with various question types
Writing60 minutes
2 tasks
Task 1: Describe visual information (20 min), Task 2: Essay response (40 min)
Speaking11-14 minutes
Face-to-face interview
Three parts: introduction and interview, individual long turn, and two-way discussion
Total test time: approximately 2 hours 45 minutes
Note: The Speaking section may be completed up to a week before or after the other test components.
Band Scores
- Each section scored on a scale of1-9
- Scores reported in whole and half bands(e.g., 6.5)
- Overall score is the average of the four sections
Results Timeline
Results typically available 13 calendar days after the test
Score Validity
IELTS scores are valid for 2 years from the test date
How to Register
- 1Create an account on the official IELTS website
- 2Select a test center and available date
- 3Pay the test fee online
- 4Receive confirmation and test day instructions
Test Fees
Fees vary by location and test center
Typical Minimum Requirements
e.g., Ivy League, MIT, Stanford
e.g., Michigan, UCLA, NYU
e.g., Public state university systems
e.g., Two-year colleges
Special Considerations
- • Graduate programs may require higher scores
- • Some schools require minimum scores in each section
- • English-focused majors often have higher requirements
Official Website & Registration
The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a modern, online English proficiency test that has gained significant recognition and acceptance among US universities, especially since 2020. Combining cutting-edge technology with convenience, it offers a more accessible alternative to traditional English proficiency tests.
Affordability
At just $49 USD, it's significantly more affordable than TOEFL ($195-255) or IELTS ($215-245)
Convenience
Take the test anytime, anywhere with a computer, webcam, and reliable internet connection
Fast Results
Results typically available within 48 hours, much faster than traditional tests
Unlimited Score Sharing
Send your scores to unlimited institutions at no additional cost
Adaptive Technology
Computer-adaptive testing adjusts difficulty based on performance, reducing test time
Adaptive Test Section~45 minutes
Computer-adaptive test with various question types that assess all language skills.
Identify real English words, transcribe spoken sentences
Read passages and answer comprehension questions
Write detailed responses to prompts
Record yourself speaking on various topics
Video Interview Section
Record video responses to demonstrate your English abilities in an unstructured format. These videos can be viewed by universities as part of your application.
Test Environment Requirements
- • Quiet, well-lit room with no other people present
- • Computer with webcam and microphone
- • Stable internet connection
- • Valid government-issued ID
- • Recent Chrome, Firefox, or Safari browser
Overall Score
- Score range:10-160
- Competitive score:110-160
- Standard format:Whole numbers
Subscores
- • Literacy (reading and writing): 10-160
- • Comprehension (reading and listening): 10-160
- • Conversation (listening and speaking): 10-160
- • Production (writing and speaking): 10-160
Score Validity
Duolingo scores are valid for 2 years from the test date
Taking the Test
- Create an account on the Duolingo English Test website
- Pay the $49 USD fee
- Complete a system requirements check
- Take a practice test (recommended)
- Begin the test when ready (available 24/7)
- Complete both adaptive test and video interview
- Receive results within 48 hours via email
Retaking Policy
- • Maximum of 2 tests in a 30-day period
- • Need to wait at least 24 hours between attempts
- • Each new attempt requires a new payment
- • Only the newest score will be displayed on your profile
Score Requirements by Tier (2025)
Acceptance Growth
Duolingo is now accepted by over 3,500 programs at more than 2,000 institutions worldwide, including:
Score Comparison Chart
| Duolingo | TOEFL iBT | IELTS | CEFR Level | US University Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 145-160 | 110-120 | 8.5-9.0 | C2 | Elite Graduate |
| 125-145 | 100-110 | 7.5-8.5 | C1/C2 | Competitive Graduate |
| 115-125 | 90-100 | 7.0-7.5 | C1 | Graduate |
| 105-115 | 80-90 | 6.5-7.0 | B2/C1 | Undergraduate |
| 95-105 | 70-80 | 6.0-6.5 | B2 | Conditional |
| 85-95 | 60-70 | 5.5-6.0 | B1/B2 | ESL Program |
This is an approximate comparison. Individual university requirements may vary.
Preparation Tips
Take the free practice test on the Duolingo website to understand the format
Familiarize yourself with the different question types, especially the less common ones
Practice speaking clearly and at a natural pace for the speaking sections
Work on typing quickly and accurately for the writing sections
Ensure your testing environment is quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions
Check your equipment (webcam, microphone, internet) before the test day
Read instructions carefully during the test, as question types change frequently
Use the Duolingo language learning app to improve your general English skills
Pros & Cons
- Affordable ($49 vs. $200+ for other tests)
- Convenient (take anytime, anywhere with internet)
- Fast results (usually within 48 hours)
- Adaptive testing (shorter test time)
- Unlimited free score sharing
- Increasingly accepted by US universities
- Not yet accepted by all US universities (check with each school)
- Some universities may require higher Duolingo scores than equivalent TOEFL/IELTS
- Less established track record than TOEFL or IELTS
- Technical issues can disrupt the test experience
- May not be suitable for those who prefer a traditional test environment
- Some schools only accept Duolingo conditionally or temporarily
Official Website & Registration
While TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo are the most commonly accepted English proficiency tests for US university admissions, several other options are recognized by many institutions. These alternative tests may offer advantages in terms of availability, format, or content that better suit certain applicants.
Primary AlternativePTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic)
Test Overview
PTE Academic is a computer-based academic English language test designed for non-native English speakers wanting to study abroad. It tests reading, writing, listening and speaking abilities in a single 2-hour session.
Computer-based test with integrated skills assessment
Approximately 2 hours (no separate speaking test)
10-90 point scale (overall and communicative skills)
Typically available within 48 hours
$200-220 USD (varies by location)
Test Structure
Speaking & Writing77-93 minutes
Personal introduction, reading aloud, repeating sentences, describing images, summarizing written text, essay writing
Reading32-41 minutes
Multiple-choice, reordering paragraphs, fill in the blanks, reading & writing fill in the blanks
Listening45-57 minutes
Summarize spoken text, multiple-choice, fill in the blanks, highlight correct summary, select missing word, highlight incorrect words, write from dictation
US University Requirements
PTE Academic Advantages
Quick Results
Results typically available within 48 hours
Objective Scoring
Computer-based scoring eliminates human bias
Test Availability
Frequent test dates with flexible scheduling
Integrated Tasks
Tests mimic real-life academic situations
Security Features
Palm-vein scanning for secure identification
Single Session
All components tested in one sitting
Other Alternative English Proficiency Tests
A suite of exams for different English levels (B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency) with non-expiring results.
A modular, internet-based test available on demand with results within 24 hours.
Developed in Canada but accepted by some US institutions, particularly those near the border.
Important Considerations
Verify Test Acceptance: Always check directly with your target universities to confirm which tests they accept and the minimum score requirements.
Consider Test Availability: Some tests may not be widely available in all countries or regions. Check test center locations before committing to a specific test.
Test Strengths & Weaknesses: Each test has a different format and emphasis. Consider your personal strengths (speaking, writing, etc.) when choosing a test.
Test for Multiple Applications: If applying to several universities, choose a test that's widely accepted to avoid taking multiple tests.
English proficiency requirements vary significantly based on the type and ranking of US universities. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the typical minimum scores needed across different university tiers and program types, allowing you to better target your test preparation.
| University Category | TOEFL iBT | IELTS Academic | Duolingo English Test | PTE Academic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Ivy League & Elite Universities e.g., Harvard, Yale, MIT, Stanford, Princeton | 100-110+ | 7.0-8.0 | 120-140 | 68-80 |
Top 50 Research Universities e.g., UC Berkeley, Michigan, UNC Chapel Hill, NYU | 90-100 | 6.5-7.5 | 110-125 | 61-75 |
Other Competitive Universities e.g., Penn State, Purdue, Syracuse, Northeastern | 80-95 | 6.5-7.0 | 105-115 | 53-65 |
State Universities e.g., Most public state university systems | 75-85 | 6.0-6.5 | 95-110 | 50-58 |
Liberal Arts Colleges e.g., Amherst, Williams, Pomona, Middlebury | 85-100 | 6.5-7.5 | 110-120 | 58-70 |
Community Colleges e.g., Two-year institutions nationwide | 60-75 | 5.5-6.0 | 85-100 | 45-52 |
Score Requirements Variations
Beyond university tiers, specific academic programs often have their own requirements. Here's how they typically vary:
Business/MBA Programs
Often require higher scores (TOEFL: 100+, IELTS: 7.0+) due to emphasis on communication skills
Engineering/Computer Science
May accept slightly lower scores (TOEFL: 85-95, IELTS: 6.5) at some institutions
Humanities/Social Sciences
Usually require strong writing scores, with overall requirements similar to university averages
Education/Teaching
Higher speaking requirements due to classroom communication needs (TOEFL Speaking: 24+)
Health Sciences
Often have stricter requirements (TOEFL: 100+, IELTS: 7.0+) with minimum subscores
Many US universities require not only a minimum overall score but also minimum scores in each test section. Here are common minimum subscore requirements for selective institutions:
| Test | Reading | Listening | Speaking | Writing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 20-25 | 20-25 | 22-26 | 22-26 |
| IELTS | 6.0-6.5 | 6.0-6.5 | 6.5-7.0 | 6.5-7.0 |
| PTE Academic | 55-65 | 55-65 | 60-68 | 60-68 |
Why Subscores Matter
- Some programs may place greater emphasis on specific skills (e.g., business programs might prioritize speaking scores)
- A low score in one section can prevent admission even if your overall score meets requirements
- Universities use subscores to ensure you can succeed in all aspects of academic work
Special Cases & Conditional Admissions
Conditional Admission Options
Many universities offer conditional admission if your scores are slightly below requirements. This typically involves:
- Enrolling in the university's Intensive English Program (IEP)
- Taking English support courses alongside academic classes
- Retaking the language test after arrival
- Reduced course load until proficiency is demonstrated
Special Cases
Lower initial score requirements with structured English support courses during your first 1-2 semesters
Combined language and academic preparation before full admission to degree programs
Some universities waive requirements for students from English-medium schools or with sufficient US academic experience
Some applicants may qualify for exemptions from English proficiency tests. US universities typically waive language test requirements for students who meet certain criteria. These exemptions vary by institution, so always verify policies with each university.
Common Exemption Categories
Native English Speakers
Citizens of countries where English is the official language (US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, etc.)
Previous Education in English
Completion of a degree at an accredited institution where English was the primary language of instruction
Years of English-Language Education
Typically 3+ years of full-time study at a school where all instruction was conducted in English
SAT/ACT English Scores
Some universities accept strong SAT Evidence-Based Reading & Writing (min. 600-650) or ACT English (min. 24-27) scores
AP English Scores
AP English Language or Literature scores of 4 or 5 may qualify for exemptions at some institutions
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Completion of the IB Diploma with English A at higher level (typically 5+)
Important Notes on Exemptions
- Exemption policies vary significantly between universities
- Some universities may require additional evidence or interviews
- Graduate programs often have stricter exemption policies than undergraduate programs
- Competitive programs may still require tests despite qualifying for exemptions
How to Request an Exemption
- Contact the university's international admissions office before applying
- Provide documentation proving your qualification for exemption
- For previous education, request official transcripts and a letter confirming English instruction
- Submit SAT/ACT/AP scores through official channels if using them for exemptions
- Follow up to confirm your exemption has been processed
Proper preparation is key to achieving the scores you need for admission to US universities. Each test has different formats and requirements, so tailored preparation is essential. Here are effective strategies for each major test.
General Preparation Timeline
6-12 Months Before Application
Research test requirements for target universities, select appropriate test, begin general English practice
4-6 Months Before Test
Start structured preparation with official materials, take diagnostic practice test, identify strengths and weaknesses
2-3 Months Before Test
Regular practice (2-3 hours daily), focus on weak areas, take full-length practice tests, work on test-specific strategies
1 Month Before Test
Intensive practice, review all material, take multiple timed practice tests, perfect test-day strategies
1 Week Before Test
Light review, familiarize with test center location or online testing requirements, get adequate rest
Test Day
Arrive early or set up testing environment, bring required documents, stay calm and focused
Professional Preparation Services
We've compiled answers to the most common questions about language testing for US university admissions, along with a collection of valuable resources to help you navigate the process effectively.
Helpful Resources
Official Test Websites
Registration, prep materials, score reporting
Test centers, practice tests, results verification
Sample tests, university acceptance list
Registration, free prep materials, score guides
Free Learning Resources
Sample questions, practice tests, and test prep planner
Practice materials, sample questions, and test tips
Free English learning videos and exercises
News articles in simplified English with audio
Interactive lessons, videos, and quizzes
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