English Language Proficiency

students listening

When English is a student’s second language, an English Language Proficiency Score is required. The MMASc program admission requirements exceed the standard university requirement for graduate- level studies because students in the MMASc program are called upon to exercise their communication skills frequently through class discussions, written assignments, group work, and oral presentations.

A strong command of the English language in all areas (oral, reading, writing, listening, comprehension) is required for success in this dynamic, fast-paced environment. Students must be prepared to complete reading and writing assignments within short time frames and contribute productively to discussions in class without advanced or comprehensive exposure to materials presented. Group work and class participation demand strong listening skills and comprehension of the language at an advanced level.

ELP Documentation Requirements if English is NOT your First Language:

  • If you have completed undergraduate degree in a country where English is not the official language = You must submit test results from within the last 2 years
  • If you have studied 2 or more years at a university in a country where English is the official language = You must submit test results from within the last 5 years (the ELP results can be what you submitted for your undergrad application)
  • If you have completed 2 or more years of high school plus a 4-year undergraduate degree in Canada or USA = Exempt from ELP requirement - You are not required to submit ELP test results

 

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide formal documentation of their proficiency in the use of the English language by meeting/exceeding one of the requirements listed below within the last two years.

English Proficiency Tests and Performance Requirements

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

The TOEFLiBT (internet-based) minimum overall score of 94 includes a Read and Listen minimum score of 22, speak minimum score of 26 and write minimum score of 24.
The TOEFL-PBT (paper-based) has a minimum acceptable score of 587, which includes: Reading minimum score of 56, listening minimum score of 56, written expression minimum of 61.

International English Language Testing Service (IELTS)

The minimum overall score for the International English Language Testing Service (IELTS) of the British Counci is 7 out of 9, with no individual score less than 6.5. The IELTS is offered in 6 test centres in the US and 3 in Canada.

Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL Assessment)

The minimum acceptable Canadian Academic English Language Assessment score to the MMASc is at 60. The CAEL Assessment is offered in several countries throughout the world as well as Canada.

Duolingo English Test

The minimum acceptable Duolingo English Test score for admission to the MMASc program is 120. Western University and the School of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies receives scores from Duolingo directly. To ensure your results are made available to the Admissions team, select Western University-Graduate Studies from the Institution list when completing the Duolingo English Test. Satisfying the minimum requirement does not guarantee admission.

Fanshawe College ESL Program

Fanshawe College ESL Program: Graduation from Level Ten (former Level Five), Advanced Academic Preparation, with a minimum of 80% in all components. Official proof of graduation is required.
 

Additional Information

Students who are required to present evidence of proficiency in English must make their own arrangements to write the TOEFL, IELTS or CAEL and to have the official results sent directly to the School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies by the testing agency. Those graduates from Level 5 of the Fanshawe College ESL Program or the High-Advanced level of Culture Works must provide official proof of graduation. An acceptable test score is one that meets or exceeds the minimum standard of achievement and is no more than two years old at the time of application. Satisfying the minimum requirement does not guarantee admission.