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Proof of English Proficiency

Students who demonstrate proficiency in English can begin college academic classes when they arrive at Pierce College. English proficiency can be demonstrated by meeting any one of the following conditions:

  1. International TOEFL score of 61 (iBT) /173 (CBT) /500(PBT) or higher.
  2. IELTS of 5.0 with no band lower than 5.0.
  3. Minimum IELTS score of 5.0 with no band lower than 5.0.
  4. Academic placement on the Pierce College IEP Placement Test. Students whose oral and written scores on the Pierce College IEP Placement Test indicate academic-level proficiency can go directly into college classes.
  5. Successful completion of Pierce College IEP Level 4 classes; a TOEFL score is not required.
  6. Academic-level transfer students only: Academic standing at an accredited English-language college or university.
  7. Completion of the appropriate level at these schools:
    • ELS Language Schools: Level 109; ELS administered Institutional TOEFL score of 500 (Pierce College will test new students in skill areas not covered by the exam)
    • Kaplan: High-Intermediate or Advanced Level; Kaplan TOEFL or Kaplan administered Institutional TOEFL score of 500 (Pierce College will test new students in skill areas not covered by the exam)
    • The New England School of English: Level 10; 500 on New England School of English administered Institutional TOEFL
    • Graduates of other ESL schools please inquire if we can accept this as proof of English proficiency
  8. Secondary Education. Official high school completion diploma from accredited institutions in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, United Kingdom or the United States indicating a passing score in English. Nordic institutions: gymnasium scores of "VG" or "MVG". Singapore: At least 4 O level or 5 N level passes. Graduates of English-medium high schools in other countries, please inquire if we can accept your graduation as proof of English proficiency.
  9. A score of "C" or better in acquiring the Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE).
  10. A score of "C" or better in acquiring the Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE).