TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo? Which English Test Do You Need for U.S. Universities?
Language Requirements for International Students Studying in the USA
Studying in the USA as an international student is an exciting opportunity, but one of the key requirements is proving English language proficiency. Universities and colleges in the U.S. require non-native English speakers to submit standardized test scores to ensure they can succeed in an English-speaking academic environment.
This article provides a comprehensive guide on:
Accepted English language proficiency tests and their required scores
Estimated costs of these tests
Exemptions from language testing
Best resources and strategies for test preparation
Best practices for meeting language requirements
1. Accepted English Language Proficiency Tests
Most U.S. universities accept the following tests as proof of English proficiency:
A. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
Format: Internet-based (iBT) or Paper-based (PBT)
Minimum Score Requirements:
Undergraduate: 70–80 (iBT)
Graduate: 80–100 (iBT)
*(Some competitive programs may require 100+)*
Cost: 245 (varies by country)
Validity: 2 years
B. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
Format: Academic version (General Training is not accepted for admissions)
Minimum Score Requirements:
Undergraduate: 6.0–6.5
Graduate: 6.5–7.5
Cost: 310 (varies by country)
Validity: 2 years
C. Duolingo English Test
Format: Online adaptive test (taken from home)
Minimum Score Requirements:
Undergraduate: 95–120
Graduate: 105–120
Cost: $59 (includes free score reporting)
Validity: 2 years
D. PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
Format: Computer-based
Minimum Score Requirements:
Undergraduate: 50–60
Graduate: 58–70
Cost: 220 (varies by country)
Validity: 2 years
E. Cambridge English Exams (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency)
Accepted by some universities as an alternative
Minimum Score: Typically 176+ on C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency
Cost: 250
Validity: No expiry (but some universities may require recent scores)
2. Can You Be Admitted Without a Language Test?
Yes, some exceptions allow students to bypass language testing:
A. English-Speaking Country Exemption
If you are from a country where English is the primary language (e.g., UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland), you may be exempt.
B. Previous Education in English
If you completed at least 2–4 years of education in an English-medium school or university, some colleges may waive the requirement.
C. Conditional Admission & Pathway Programs
Some universities offer conditional admission if you enroll in an English Language Program (ELP)before starting your degree.
D. SAT/ACT English Scores
Some schools accept high Evidence-Based Reading & Writing (EBRW) scores (e.g., 600+ on SAT EBRW) as proof of proficiency.
3. Best Resources for Test Preparation
A. Free Resources
Duolingo: Duolingo Practice Test
B. Paid Courses & Books
Magoosh TOEFL Prep (150)
Barron’s IELTS Book (~$20)
Official Cambridge PTE Academic Guide (~$30)
C. Practice Tests & Tutoring
iTalki / Preply (Affordable 1-on-1 tutoring)
Khan Academy (SAT Reading/Writing for English practice)
4. Best Practices for Meeting Language Requirements
Check University-Specific Requirements
Some schools have higher cutoffs (e.g., Ivy Leagues may require TOEFL 100+).
Take Practice Tests Early
Identify weak areas (e.g., speaking, writing) and improve before the real test.
Schedule Tests Early
Book slots 3–6 months before deadlines to allow retakes if needed.
Consider Duolingo for Affordability & Convenience
Accepted by 4,000+ U.S. schools, cheaper, and faster results.
Apply for Fee Waivers if Eligible
Some organizations (e.g., EducationUSA) offer test fee reductions.
Improve English Naturally
Watch English movies, read academic articles, and converse with native speakers.
Proving English proficiency is a key step in studying in the USA. While TOEFL and IELTS remain the most widely accepted, alternatives like Duolingo and PTE offer flexibility. Some students may qualify for exemptions, but strong preparation is essential for success.
By using the right resources, planning ahead, and following best practices, you can meet language requirements and secure admission to your dream U.S. university!
Join us today and take the first step toward achieving your global education goals with Menazor. Together, let’s turn your aspirations into achievements!
Menazor - Your Study Abroad Companion.
The journey of a thousand miles begins here !