TOEFL/IELTS

Although results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) are not required for registration, English is the language of instruction at Boston University, and a high degree of competency is assumed. Most academic programs require a minimum score of:

• 550 on the paper-based TOEFL (PBT)
• 84 on the Internet-based TOEFL (iBT)
• 7 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

The College of Communication and School of Management require minimum scores of 600 (PBT) or 91 (iBT). These competency levels are strongly recommended for international students who wish to study at Boston University during the summer.

International students interested in enrolling in Metropolitan College Administrative Sciences courses must demonstrate the ability to read and write with proficiency in English. Students whose native language is not English must submit results from one of the following tests: TOEFL PBT, minimum score of 560; TOEFL iBT, total score of 84 with minimum scores in each section of 21 in reading, 18 in listening, 23 in speaking, and 22 in writing; the IELTS, minimum score of 7.

For information on these tests, visit the TOEFL website at www.toefl.org or the IELTS website at www.ielts.org. Information may also be obtained at United States embassies or consulates.

Students who have completed four years of study in the United States, earning a bachelor’s degree from a US-accredited college or university, may have the language testing requirement waived.

Students who do not meet the minimum TOEFL requirement may wish to contact Boston University’s Center for English Language & Orientation Programs (CELOP) for further information.