If you are an applicant whose native language is not English and your undergraduate degree was not taught in English, you are required to submit results from the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS, academic test only), or Cambridge English exam as part of your application.
Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive about our English language proficiency policies.
My undergraduate degree was taught in English. How do I report this on my application?
On the “Education” section of the application, you will find several “Language Information” questions, which ask you to report your native language and undergraduate language of instruction. If your undergraduate degree was taught in English, please indicate this on this section of your application. This will allow you to submit your application without reporting English language proficiency scores.
I am a non-native English speaker, but I have a master’s degree from a university in the United States. Do I need to submit results from an English language proficiency test?
An advanced degree such as a master's or doctorate from a U.S. institution—or any other institution where English is the language of instruction—does not fulfill the English proficiency testing requirement. In this case, you would need to submit results of an English language proficiency exam.
I have been working in an English-speaking setting for several years. Can I request a TOEFL/IELTS waiver?
Working in an English-speaking setting does not exempt you from the English language proficiency requirement. Therefore, you would be required to submit results of the TOEFL, IETLS, or Cambridge English exam.
What are the minimum required scores?
You must meet the following scores in a single test setting:
- 100 on the internet-based TOEFL iBT. The most competitive applicants will also have a minimum of 25 on each sub-section.
- 7 overall band score on the IELTS. The most competitive applicants will also have a minimum of 7 on each section.
- 185 on Level C1 or Level C2 proficiency on the Cambridge English exam. The most competitive applicants will also have a minimum of 185 on each section.
Do you accept the TOEFL Home Edition?
Yes, we accept results of the TOEFL Home Edition, as well as results from exams taken in-person at a test center.
Do you accept the Duolingo English Test?
No, we do not. We accept results from the TOEFL, IELTS (academic test only), or Cambridge English exam.
I took the TOEFL in 2018. Do I need to retake it?
TOEFL and IELTS scores are considered valid for two years, which means we will accept scores from December 1, 2021 and later for this application cycle. If you took one of these exams prior to that date, you will need to retake the test.
