Dean of Graduate Studies > Future Students > US and International > English Language Requirements

English Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction and communication in the University. Accordingly, an applicant whose primary language is not English or whose previous education has been conducted in another language must demonstrate command of English sufficient to pursue graduate studies in the chosen field.

Applicants normally will be required to achieve a satisfactory score on a standardized English test acceptable to the University. This test must include a writing component.

Simon Fraser University Graduate Programs accepts the following tests:

  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
  • IELTS (International English Language Testing Systems)
  • PTE (Pearson Test of English) English Language Proficiency Test

The minimum graduate program admission requirements for test scores:

English Language Test Score
Internet-based TOEFL 88 with minimum of 20 in each category
Paper-based TOEFL 570 and TWE 5
IELTS (academic) overall band score of 7.0 of the academic (NOT general) test
PTE (academic) minimum score of 62 overall and minimum 55 in any area of the academic (NOT general) test

Some graduate programs may have higher requirements, as indicated in their section of the SFU Calendar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does SFU offer any English language courses?

SFU's English Language & Culture Program offers a range of non-credit courses for students who need to improve their English language skills.

Is there any English training program which will guarantee me admission to university?

There is no English program which will guarantee admission to a graduate program.

Each graduate program has minimum requirements for admission and you should consult your target graduate program with your questions.

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