The language of instruction at Penn State is English. All international applicants must submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic Test, with some exceptions. If you do not meet these minimum requirements, you may be granted provisional admission until you complete certain requirements.
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT: Overall score of at least 4.5 with a 3.5 or greater on the speaking section.
For tests taken prior to January 21, 2026: Overall score of at least 80 with a minimum speaking score of 19 - International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic Test: Minimum overall band score of 6.5
Provisional Admission
Applicants with the test scores below those listed above may be considered for provisional admission. To be fully admitted, students must complete specified English course work with a grade of B or higher during their first semester of enrollment. The course(s) to meet this qualification will be based on the applicant’s area(s) of deficiency in test results and are listed in the graduate education admissions policy (GCAC-305 Procedures).