English language level for entry to universities in USA and Canada
Canadian and American universities expect excellent language qualifications so you can cope with the demands of degree-level study. If you do not have the required level of English, you can first join dedicated preparation programs at some universities, with progression to a degree guaranteed.
English Language admission tests
If you want to apply for direct entry to a degree at university in the USA or Canada, and your native language is not English, you must provide proof of your proficiency.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) scores are the most common language requirement for American universities. IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam scores are the most common language requirement for Canadian universities. But most universities will accept either test as proof of your English language ability. You can take TOEFL and IELTS exams at testing centers worldwide.
However, if you apply through some university ESL programs, or to our bachelor's degree pathways and Pre-Master's programs for international students, you do not need an official TOEFL or IELTS score. The university will accept you on condition that you successfully complete your ESL or preparation program (this is called 'conditional acceptance').
English proficiency requirements
- for entry to an undergraduate degree
- for entry to a master's degree
- for entry to degree pathways for international students
- for conditional acceptance through a university-based ESL program
English requirement for direct entry to an undergraduate degree
| University | Minimum TOEFL score | or IELTS score | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper-based test | Computer-based test | Internet-based test | ||
| James Madison University | Entry to a degree is through the Foundation Diploma only | |||
| Long Island University | 527 | 197 | 71 | 6.0 |
| Royal Roads University | 520 equivalent | 190 equivalent | 68 equivalent | 5.5 equivalent |
English requirement for direct entry to a Master's degree
| University | Minimum TOEFL score | or IELTS score | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper-based Test | Computer-based test | internet-based test | ||
| James Madison University | Entry to a degree is through the Pre-Master's only | |||
| Long Island University | 550 | 213 | 79 | 6.5 |
| Royal Roads University | 570 | 230 | 88 | 6.5 |
English requirement for degree pathways for international students
At universities in the USA and Canada we offer fast-track academic pathways to undergraduate and graduate degrees for international students. You do not require an official TOEFL or IELTS score to qualify.
Your program length depends on your English level, demonstrated by the result of Study Group's English Language test:
| University | Program | Duration | Equivalent TOEFL score |
|---|---|---|---|
| James Madison University |
Foundation Diploma | 3 semesters (12 months) | 475 PBT/52 iBT |
| 2 semesters (9 months) | 520 PBT/68 iBT | ||
| Pre-Master's for non-qualified students | 3 semesters (12 months) | 475 PBT/52 iBT | |
| 2 semesters (9 months) | 520 PBT/68 iBT | ||
| Pre-Master's for qualified students | 2 semesters (9 months) | 475 PBT/52 iBT | |
| 1 semester (15 weeks) | 520 PBT/68 iBT | ||
| Long Island University | Pre-MBA Program | 2 semesters (9 months) | 527 PBT/71 iBT |
| Royal Roads University | Qualifying Pre-Master's | 2 semesters (9 months) | 500 PBT/60 iBT |
| Pre-Master's | 1 semester (15 weeks) | 520 PBT/68 iBT |
English requirement for a university-based ESL program
We can secure a conditional acceptance based upon your academic credentials at these universities. Having achieved the required English level on the university's ESL program, you can enroll fully on a degree or academic pathway at:
| University | Program | Duration | English level for conditional entry |
|---|---|---|---|
| James Madison University |
English for Academic Purposes | 1 semester (15 weeks) |
no official score required (equivalent of TOEFL 425 PBT/36 iBT) |
| Long Island University | English Transition Program - undergraduate level | 1 semester (15 weeks) | no official score required (equivalent of TOEFL 470 PBT/52 iBT) |
| 2 semesters (9 months) | no official score required (equivalent of TOEFL 437 PBT/41 iBT) | ||
| English Transition Program - graduate level | 1 semester (15 weeks) | TOEFL 537 PBT/74 iBT | |
| 2 semesters (9 months) | TOEFL 500 PBT/61 iBT | ||
| Royal Roads University | Foundation Studies | 3 semesters (12 months) | no official score required (equivalent of 400 PBT/32 iBT) |
| 2 semesters (9 months) | no official score required (equivalent of 437 PBT/41 iBT) | ||
| 1 semester (15 weeks) | no official score required (equivalent of 475 PBT/52 iBT) |