Scholars
Verification of English Language Proficiency
U.S. Department of State regulation 22CFR 62.10(a)(2) requires J-1 Exchange Visitors to show proof of English language proficiency to successfully participate in their programs and to function on a day-to-day basis. Below are the options that are acceptable at USF.
Option 1: Objective and Recognized English Language Test
The following tests are acceptable and the test dates must be no older than two years.
TOEFL IBT: 69 overall score
IELTS: 6
PTE Academic: 53
Duolingo: 100
Option 2: Interview with English3
This third party is trained in language assessment. They will conduct an 鈥渋nterview鈥� in a recorded session completed through the English3 website. The interview general takes about 25 minutes and can be evaluated in 48 hours. A score of 3.0 or higher is required. The scholar is provided the link during the application process. The test results are provided directly to USF.
Option 3: Degree Program Taught in English Language
The scholar may show proof, in the form of a transcript or diploma, that they have obtained an Associate, Bachelor鈥檚, Master鈥檚, or Doctoral degree from a regionally-accredited U.S. college of university.
The scholar may show proof, in the form of a transcript, that they attended university for at least one year in a country where English is the official language (per the USF Graduate English Proficiency - English Speaking Countries List).
Option 4: Native English Speaker
The scholar may show proof, in the form of a passport, that they are a citizen of a country whose official language is English per the USF Graduate English Proficiency - English Speaking Countries List.