Sophia AlexanderContents
- Do you need to take an English language test?
- Picking the right English proficiency test
- Other ways to show your English skills
- When’s the best time to take the test?
- Need help researching and planning for your English test?
- Finding the right colleges for you
There’s nothing worse than sitting in a lecture and not understanding a word the professor is saying. Your ability to read, write, and understand spoken English is crucial for doing well in university—and it’s also a key part of your admission application.
Colleges want you to succeed, too—so you can enjoy your experience and graduate with strong grades. That’s why many U.S. schools require non-native English speakers to prove their language skills with an English proficiency exam. Some graduate programs might also ask you to do an interview with an admissions officer.
Do you need to take an English language test?
Wondering if you’ll need to take an English as a second language test?
Always check the websites of the universities you’re applying to. Look for the international admissions section (or sometimes a section for undocumented applicants). Usually, you’ll need to take an exam if:
- You’re not a U.S. citizen or from a country where English is the main language.
- Your school’s curriculum wasn’t taught in English.
- You list a language other than English as your native language.
Picking the right English proficiency test
Which test should you take? Again, the best move is to check with the colleges you’re applying to—they’ll list which tests they accept or recommend.
The most common test for U.S. universities is the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), which focuses on American English. You can take it digitally (iBT) or on paper (pBT). TOEFL also offers practice tests to help you prepare.
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) tests British English and is widely accepted in the U.S., Canada, and the UK. You can take it online, on paper, or on a computer at a test center. IELTS also has free prep materials on its website.
Many schools now accept Duolingo, a great option if you’re already comfortable with English. It’s a shorter test that includes an interview. The Duolingo app is a fun way to practice English in general, but they also offer unlimited free practice questions for their own test.
Another option is the Pearson PTE, a two-hour computer-based test accepted by several U.S. universities. Pearson provides both free and paid study resources.
No matter which test you pick, we recommend preparing beforehand. Familiarize yourself with the question types, section instructions, time management, and whether guessing is worth it—these tips can make a big difference.
Other ways to show your English skills
Some universities waive the English proficiency test if you scored a 4 or 5 on the AP English Language and Composition exam. In the UK, Canada, and some U.S. schools, a score of 12 or higher on the IB Literature and Language Higher Level exam might also work.
If you’re not confident in your English fluency, consider a gap year program focused on language skills. ESI offers immersive English programs that help you learn the language while experiencing the culture. Many U.S. universities also have language immersion programs.
You can find these programs listed on the ESL website, but keep in mind—attending one doesn’t guarantee admission to that university. Language programs are separate from the admissions process.
When’s the best time to take the test?
Most universities update their admission requirements by August 1, so double-check their websites to confirm which tests they still accept.
Also, pay attention to international applicant deadlines—many priority deadlines fall around November 1. Test scores are usually valid for two years, but you should take the exam when you feel ready and prepared.
Taking the test in May or June before you apply gives you time to prepare and finish 11th-grade coursework. If you need to retake it, you’ll still have August or September to do so, with enough time for schools to receive your scores.
When you register for the test, you can send your scores to multiple schools for free. If you’re confident you’ll do well, this can save you money. But if you’d rather see your score first, it’s best not to list any schools during registration.
Need help researching and planning for your English test?
USA.gov is a great resource for test prep tips. You can also email admissions officers at your target schools—but keep in mind they get very busy near deadlines.
Finding the right colleges for you
The first step to figuring out if you need an English test is checking each college’s website. But what if you’re not sure where to apply?
Try Appily’s college match quiz! Just share details like your GPA, test scores, and potential majors, and we’ll generate a personalized list of schools that fit your needs.
