English language proficiency is an important requirement for international students seeking admission to universities in the US. Most universities require applicants to demonstrate their proficiency in English by taking standardized English language tests. Here are some commonly accepted English language tests and their requirements:
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
The TOEFL measures the English language proficiency of non-native speakers of English. The exam consists of four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. The exam is administered online and takes approximately 3.5 hours to complete.
| Section | Duration | Number of Questions |
| Reading | 60-80 minutes | 36-56 questions |
| Listening | 60-90 minutes | 34-51 questions |
| Speaking | 20 minutes | 6 tasks |
| Writing | 50 minutes | 2 tasks |
The maximum score on the TOEFL is 120. Most universities in the US require a minimum score of 80-100 on the internet-based TOEFL (iBT). Some universities may accept a paper-based TOEFL (PBT) score instead.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
The IELTS measures the English language proficiency of non-native speakers of English. The exam consists of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The exam is administered in person and takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete.
| Section | Duration | Number of Questions |
| Listening | 30 minutes | 4 sections, 40 questions |
| Reading | 60 minutes | 3 sections, 40 questions |
| Writing | 60 minutes | 2 tasks |
| Speaking | 11-14 minutes | 3 parts |
The IELTS is scored on a scale from 0 to 9. Most universities in the US require a minimum overall band score of 6.5-7.5 on the academic version of the IELTS.
PTE (Pearson Test of English)
The PTE measures the English language proficiency of non-native speakers of English. The exam consists of three sections: Speaking and Writing, Reading, and Listening. The exam is administered on a computer and takes approximately 3 hours to complete.
| Section | Duration | Number of Questions |
| Speaking and Writing | 77-93 minutes | 7 tasks |
| Reading | 32-41 minutes | 5 sections, 15-20 questions |
| Listening | 45-57 minutes | 8 sections, 20-25 questions |
The PTE is scored on a scale from 10 to 90. Most universities in the US require a minimum overall score of 58-65 on the PTE Academic.
Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test measures the English language proficiency of non-native speakers of English. The exam consists of a combination of multiple-choice questions, fill-in-the-blanks, and spoken responses. The exam is administered on a computer and takes approximately 1 hour to complete.
| Section | Duration | Number of Questions |
| Reading | 20-30 minutes | 15-25 questions |
| Listening | 20-30 minutes | 15-25 questions |
| Speaking | 10-15 minutes | 5-6 tasks |
| Writing | 10-15 minutes | 1 task |
The Duolingo English Test is scored on a scale from 10 to 160. Most universities in the US require a minimum overall score of 100-110 on the Duolingo English Test.
The test(s) you need to take depend on the requirements of the institution or organization to which you’re applying. For example, if you’re planning to study in a US university, you’ll likely need to take the TOEFL or IELTS. If you’re migrating to Canada, the IELTS General Training test might be required. Always make sure to check the English language proficiency requirements directly with the organization or institution to which you’re applying.
