Standardized Tests
The list below indicates, country by country, which examinations will fulfill an applicant’s standardized testing requirement. The list is not comprehensive, and will be updated as new examinations are approved. Please email [email protected] with questions regarding examinations that are not included in this list.
China
Chinese National Higher Education Entrance Examination (Gao Kao)
A verification report of scores can be requested through China Higher Education Student Information and Career Center (CHESICC).
English Proficiency Exams
If your native language is not English and you completed your secondary or higher education in a non-native English speaking country, you must take a test of English language proficiency. In some instances, admission to the University will be contingent upon participation in the University’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Program.
Minimum Exam Scores
| Exam | Typical ‘passing’ score | Typical ‘strong’ score |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS | 7.0 | 7.5+ |
| TOEFL (paper-based) | 600 | |
| TOEFL (internet-based) | 100 Individual Minimums Writing=25 Speaking=24 Reading=26 Listening=25 | 107+ |
| PTE Academic | 66 | 73+ |
Applicants to the University can choose one of three language proficiency examinations to submit to the Office of Admissions: the TOEFL, the IELTS, or the PTE Academic. The table above shows how exam results correlate to results at Rochester.
Admission to the University of Rochester is based on a holistic review process. Applicants whose test scores fall outside of the ranges displayed above are still encouraged to apply. If your scores are slightly lower than the minimums listed above, and your application is strong in other ways, you may earn access to Rochester through the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Program.
Requests to Waive English Proficiency Exams
If you meet one or more of the following criteria, you may request a waiver of the English proficiency examination requirement (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE-Academic) by emailing Admissions.
You are a native speaker of English in your home environment.
You completed three or more years of secondary education at an American or International School where English is the primary language of instruction.
You are a transfer applicant who has completed a year or more of college-level courses taught in the United States, including at least one writing-intensive course.
Some applicants who meet minimum score requirements but also require additional English language support may be recommended for EAP. Applicants to Rochester cannot apply to the EAP program. If you are granted access to Rochester through the EAP program, you will take undergraduate classes alongside EAP program courses.
