English Language Requirements

These guidelines do not apply to summer sessions, or High School Programs.

Master's Degree Program Applicants

Applicants whose native language is not English or have not completed their undergraduate studies at an accredited US college or university are required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language by submitting official scores either from the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System).  Official scores must be sent directly from either TOEFL or IELTS and are only valid for two years.  (Use school code 2594 to report TOEFL scores.)

Applicants taking the TOEFL must have a score of at least 100 on the Internet-based version (600 paper based).  Applicants taking the IELTS must receive a score of 7.0 or higher.

Graduates of Columbia's American Language Program (ALP), must achieve Level 10 in order to apply to a program at the School of Continuing Education.  Applicants who have achieved Level 10 are NOT required to take the TOEFL or IELTS.

Postbaccalaureate Studies Program and Visiting Student Applicants

Applicants whose native language is not English or have not completed their undergraduate studies at an accredited US college or university are required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language by submitting official scores either from the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System).  Official scores must be sent directly from either TOEFL or IELTS and are only valid for two years.  (Use school code 2594 to report TOEFL scores.)

Applicants taking the TOEFL must have a score of at least 100 on the Internet-based version (600 paper based).  Applicants taking the IELTS must receive a score of 7.0 or higher.  Applicants receiving scores below the posted minimums may be advised to apply directly to the American Language Program.

Applicants who are admitted on the basis of TOEFL or IELTS scores may be required to further demonstrate their command of the English language during orientation and/or registration.