9.17 Should you take the TOEFL this summer? How about the IELTS?

Athena Mentor has some advice for you international students applying to university in the United States--or to any English-speaking university program. This summer, research whatever English proficiency test may be required as part of your applications--and take it.You may be thinking, "Oh I don't need to take an English proficiency test, because I'm in an international school. All my classes are in English and my English is really great."

Click on the image or on this link to access the video: https://youtu.be/r86Ak5xA_vM

Athena Advises

Good! Prove it on an English proficiency test!Whether or not an English proficiency test is required is not up to you. It's up to each and every individual college or university to which you might apply. They can also stipulate which test you must take, and even when and where you must take it.Some institutions exempt international applicants from proving their competence in English, if the applicant claims English as their native language. Some institutions exempt students who have studied for a certain number of years at a secondary school where the language of instruction is English. The number of years is set by the college or university. Look up the requirements for each of the schools to which you will apply, and what their particular regulations are for whether or not you need to take the TOEFL test or some other proficiency test, such as the IELTS. What exactly do you need to do to document your proficiency in English?If you are applying to universities in the United Kingdom, it is essential that you carefully research the requirements for establishing proficiency in English. You must meet not only any and all requirements of the academic institutions to which you will apply, but you may also have to meet the requirements of the Home Offices for obtaining a visa. The Home Offices publish lists of "Approved secure English language tests and test centers." There are approved centers in many major cities around the world, but you must plan ahead to get a seat at an appropriate time. Pay careful attention to the issue of whether you will need a visa. If you will, be sure to prepare everything required to obtain a visa!This information is subject to change, so it is very, very important that you check requirements for your particular case, and check them again shortly before your application is due.Here's to your English proficiency!Dr. Marlena CorcoranFounder and CEOAuthor of Year by Year to College, on amazon.com, amazon.de and many national amazon sites