English Proficiency

Students whose first language is not English must demonstrate sufficient English proficiency to study at SUNY Empire State College. Evaluation reports must be sent to the college directly from the approved evaluator service. Only official copies are accepted.

Test of English as a Foreign Language

Undergraduate applicants can take any version of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam that suits their needs. Applicants must achieve a score of 550 on the paper-based exam, 213 on the computer-based exam, or 79-80 on the TOEFL internet-based exam.

The School for Graduate Studies will accept the TOEFL for tests taken within the past three years. Applicants must score within the 79-94 range on the TOEFL internet-based exam, earn a score of 600 on the paper-based test, or earn a 250 on the computer-based exam.

For more information about the TOEFL exam, visit the ETS website.

International English Language Testing System

The School for Graduate Studies will also accept International English Language Testing System (IELTS) tests taken within the last three years. Applicants must achieve a score of 6.5-7 to be considered for admission.

For more information on the IELTS exam, visit the IELTS website.

Graduate applicants who have completed a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. institution or from an institution where the instruction was given in English may be exempt. See the International Graduate Students page for additional information.