English Proficiency Requirements

English is the language of instruction at Boston University. As a visiting international student, you are required to submit results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test (DET) prior to Summer Term registration. You are expected to have English proficiency levels equivalent to:

• Minimum of 84 on the internet-based TOEFL (iBT)
• Minimum of 7 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• Minimum of 110 on the Duolingo English Test (DET)

For information on these tests, visit the TOEFL website, the IELTS website, or the Duolingo website. Information may also be obtained at United States embassies and consulates.

Exceptions to this rule include students currently attending a college/university in the US and students who can submit documentation showing that English is the primary language of instruction at their home institution.

If you do not meet the minimum English proficiency requirement, please contact BU’s Center for English Language & Orientation Programs (CELOP) for information about English language instruction programs.

Please note: students seeking to enroll in Metropolitan College Administrative Sciences graduate courses should contact the Summer Term office regarding specific requirements for those courses.