Language Tests
Take the Right English Proficiency Test for Study Abroad
English Proficiency Tests for International Universities
If English is not your first language, most universities abroad will require proof that you can study, write, and communicate at an academic level in English. This is not a formality — it is a genuine requirement, and your score can affect both your admission and your eligibility for certain programmes.
The good news is that the tests are straightforward once you understand what each one is for and where it is accepted.
If you’re applying to universities in the United States at the undergraduate level, you will likely encounter:
The most widely accepted English proficiency test globally. Required by the majority of universities in the UK, Australia, Canada, and Europe, and accepted by thousands of institutions worldwide. IELTS is scored on a band scale of 1 to 9. Most universities require a minimum of 6.5 to 7.0 overall, with no individual band falling below a certain threshold.
The most widely accepted test in the United States, and recognised globally. TOEFL is scored out of 120. Most competitive US universities require a minimum of 100, though requirements vary by institution and programme.
Offered by Cambridge Assessment English and recognised by thousands of universities and employers worldwide. The C1 Advanced qualification does not expire, making it a strong long-term credential. Particularly well-regarded by UK and European institutions.
A fully computer-based test accepted by thousands of universities in the UK, Australia, the US, and Canada. Results are typically available within 48 hours — significantly faster than most other tests. Widely accepted by Australian universities and increasingly recognised globally.
A newer, fully online test that can be taken from home in under an hour. Accepted by over 5,000 institutions globally, including many selective universities in the US and Canada. Significantly more affordable than other tests and increasingly recognised — though acceptance varies, so always verify with your target institutions before registering.
Which One Should You Take?
All five tests exist for the same purpose — to assess your ability to study and communicate in English at an academic level. The right choice depends on where you are applying, which tests your target universities accept, and which format suits how you perform best.
If you are applying primarily to UK, Australian, or European universities, IELTS, PTE, or Cambridge English are the most widely accepted. For US universities, TOEFL and Duolingo are strong options — but IELTS and PTE are increasingly accepted there too. Always check each institution’s accepted tests and minimum score requirements
Competitive Scores
| Test | Score Scale | Competitive scores |
| IELTS | 1 to 9 | 6.5 to 7.0 minimum — top institutions often require 7.5 or above |
| TOEFL | 0 to 120 | 100 minimum — top US universities typically expect 110 or above |
| Cambridge C1 | Cambridge English Scale | 185 or above for C1 level |
| PTE Academic | 0 to 90 | 65 or above — top institutions often require 70 or above |
| Duolingo | 10 to 160 | 120 or above for most competitive universities |
When Should You Take the Test?
Most students should aim to sit their English proficiency test at least three to four months before their application deadlines. Scores are typically valid for two years, and many students choose to retake the test to improve their score before applying.
Build your preparation time into your overall application timeline — not as an afterthought, but as one of the first things you plan for.