English Language Proficiency Requirement

English Language Proficiency Requirement - New for admissions in 2023

A satisfactory proficiency in the English language is required for admission to the University of Oregon. All applicants for whom English is not a native/primary language must show proof of language proficiency through one of the following options:

  1. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT or TOEFL iBT Home Edition) Score: Minimum Score: 88 
  2. International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic Test Score: Minimum Score: 7.0 overall band score
  3. Degree from certain English-speaking countries: A bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or the equivalent from an institution in one of the following countries: Australia, Canada (excluding Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, or the United Kingdom. We are unable to accept certificates of English as a mode of instruction to satisfy this requirement. 

NOTE:

  • Test scores must be less than 2 years old at the time of application.
  • Some graduate programs may require a higher TOEFL/IELTS score than the minimum for University of Oregon admission and some graduate programs may require a TOEFL/IELTS score regardless of educational background. 
  • We are no longer accepting the Duolingo English Test. 

Native/primary language is defined as: A language you used as a primary language in your childhood, rather than learning it as a foreign language.

Please check with your prospective program for information about their requirements. 

Submitting Proof of English Language Proficiency

Option 1 or 2 (TOEFL/IELTS Score)

  • Take either the TOEFL or IELTS and request that the testing agency send your scores electronically to the University of Oregon.
  • UO Institution Code is 4846

Option 3 (Degree from certain English-speaking countries)

  • On your application there is a section to fill out your complete post secondary educational history. Listing a degree that meets the above criteria will prompt a review of your transcripts.

Testing Site Links

Graduate Employees: English Language Policy for Non-Native English Speakers

Non-native English speakers in Graduate Employee teaching positions are required to prove their spoken English proficiency by way of the SPEAK Test or the speaking component of the internet-based TOEFL or IELTS.