Testing requirements

TOEFL sub-scores

• Bachelor’s level: Minimum score of 15 in each sub-score area, with at least two sub-scores 17 or higher.
• Master’s/Doctoral level: All sub-scores in reading, listening, speaking, and writing are reviewed. Low scores may require additional proof of proficiency.

IELTS: No band score below 5.0.

Students with lower scores may be admitted with a requirement for intensive language training (ESL or similar).

German exchange students: DAAD verification of English competency is accepted.

Test requirements:

• Scores must be current (within two years of applying).
• Scores must be sent directly from the testing agency to North Park (TOEFL code: 1556).

English Proficiency Validation

Upon arrival, all new international students must complete a North Park-administered English proficiency test during Threshold, our new student orientation.

Students who test below required standards must take ESL or other English courses in their first semester until they meet the proficiency requirements. These are for-credit courses, billed at regular rates, but do not count toward master’s or doctoral degrees. For more details, see the Academic Catalog.

Exceptions to test score submission

Certain international students are not required to submit test scores for admission but must take the North Park English Proficiency test during orientation.

Undergraduate exceptions

• Canadian students
• Students with high school degrees taught in English (minimum 2 semesters) from:
  • The United Kingdom, British West Indies, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand
  • International Baccalaureate (IB) accredited schools
  • American-accredited schools with English instruction
• Students with 60+ transferable credits from a U.S. accredited institution, including a grade of “C” in
• Composition 1 and 2 (or equivalents)
• Students from Scandinavian countries (Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland, Denmark)

Seminary & graduate exceptions

• Canadian students
• Students with a bachelor’s degree taught in English from English-speaking countries
• Students with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, or 30+ master’s level credits from a U.S. accredited institution, with a “C” average
• Students from Scandinavian countries applying for a DMin must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
• Learn more about guidelines for Seminary international applicants here.

Additional requirements

North Park University may request extra materials, such as a writing sample or TOEFL/IELTS scores, before making an admission decision.

Non-U.S. Curriculum

Education USA advising centers offer guidance on testing, financial aid, and immigration.