English Proficiency Requirements
The international applicant must possess written and oral proficiency in the English language; therefore, the student is required to submit official test scores for one of the tests listed below. Please access the testing websites for information on costs and instructions for these tests.
How you score on your English proficiency exam will determine whether you will need to take Spring Arbor University English as a Second Language (ESL) classes in your first two semesters. The following chart explains the exam scores necessary to obtain regular or probationary admission.
English Proficiency Test Requirements
Non-U.S. citizens, international applicants from countries where English is not the primary language must possess written and oral proficiency in the English language using one of the methods below.
Language Proficiency Testing
Scores listed below are the minimum scores required which must be within two years of application to SAU.
| Test | Test Type | Score | Notes |
| TOEFL | iBT | 79 | No sub-score lower than 17 |
| TOEFL | PBT | 550 | No sub-score lower than 52, writing score 4 |
| IELTS | 6.5 | No band score lower than 6.0 | |
| MET | 64 | Section score 59 or higher | |
| ACT/SAT | Same minimum scores as native English speakers |
Education
Applicants can provide official transcripts and an international transcript evaluation reflecting the completion of a degree earned at a high school or at an institution of higher education in a primarily English-speaking country at an institution where English is the primary language of instruction. Study must have been completed within the immediate five years preceding admission to SAU.
Residency
Applicants can provide evidence of a minimum of two years of residence within the last five years in a primarily English-speaking country. Evidence can include travel documents, visas, employment contracts, etc. Documents must reflect the comprehensive dates of residency.
English Proficiency Tests
TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language — toefl.org
For TOEFL scores to be sent to Spring Arbor University, enter our code 1732 on your registration form.
IELTS: International English Language Testing System — ielts.org
For IELTS scores to be sent to Spring Arbor University, please include our address on your registration form: Spring Arbor University, Office of Admissions, 106 E Main Street, Spring Arbor, MI 49283.
MET: The Michigan English Test — MichiganAssessment.org
For MET scores to be sent to Spring Arbor University, please include our address on your registration form: Spring Arbor University, Office of Admissions, 106 E Main Street, Spring Arbor, MI 49283.
Note: Students submitting coursework from other U.S. universities (including ESL schools) who wish to bypass taking ESL classes at SAU must submit TOEFL, IELTS or MET scores (no more than six months old) or take a writing sample and reading placement test upon arrival on Spring Arbor University’s campus.