English Language Proficiency Requirement

Overview

A satisfactory proficiency in the English language is required for admission to the University of Oregon. This page outlines how international applicants and those whose native language is not English can meet this requirement. 

Who Needs to Meet This Requirement? 

If English is not your native or primary language, you must provide proof of English language proficiency. 

Native/Primary Language is defined as: a language you learned and used as a child, rather than learning it as a foreign or second language. If you are unsure whether this requirement applies to you, contact the Division of Graduate Studies at graduatestudies@uoregon.edu. 

How to Meet the Requirement

  1. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT or TOEFL iBT Home Edition) Score: Minimum Score: 88
    • TOEFL MyBest superscores do not fulfil this requirement.
  2. International English Language Testing System (IELTS or IELTS Online) Academic Test Score: Minimum Overall Band Score: 7.0
  3. Duolingo English Test (DET) - New for 2025/2026: Details on score requirements will be added shortly
  4. 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
    • United Kingdom

NOTES:

  • Test scores must be less than 2 years old when you apply
  • You may apply with unofficial or self-reported scores, but must provide official scores to accept an admission offer
  • Official scores must be sent to UO directly by the testing agency
  • We do not accept English as a medium of instruction certificates
  • Some graduate programs may require higher scores or require testing even if you meet the UO minimum requirement - Please check with your prospective program for information about their requirements. 

 

Waivers

In exceptional cases, a graduate program may petition the Division of Graduate Studies to waive the English Language Proficiency requirement. 

  • Waivers must be submitted by the program - not by the applicant
  • Applicants must have strong credentials and clear evidence of English proficiency
  • Applicants approved for a waiver may be required to complete additional English testing upon arrival
  • Final decisions are made by the Division of Graduate Studies and may include conditions for future English support

How to Report English Language Proficiency 

Submitting Test Scores:

  • Take either the TOEFL, IELTS, or DET
  • Request your official scores be sent to the University of Oregon
  • For TOEFL: Use Institution Code: 4846

If you earned a degree from a qualifying English-speaking country:

  • On your application, select this option when answering the English proficiency question
  • List all post-secondary institutions that you have attended and the degrees you earned
  • The Division of Graduate Studies will review your transcripts to determine eligibility 

Testing Resources

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.

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