In addition to the English Language Proficiency Requirement (demonstrated with a valid TOEFL or IELTS score), all international students who have been awarded graduate, research, or teaching, assistantships (including Presidential Fellowships) must take the Speaking Proficiency English Assessment Kit (SPEAK) test upon arrival on campus. Registration for classes will only be possible after taking the SPEAK test. International graduate students in certain programs are also required to take the SPEAK test as a policy of the program, regardless of whether they receive an assistantship. Applicants who have taken and submitted a score of at least 55 from a Test of Spoken English (TSE) will be exempt from the SPEAK test.
The SPEAK test is given at the beginning of each fall and spring semester during International Student Orientation. Students required to take the SPEAK test at that time must pick up a SPEAK Test Admission Form at the International Student Orientation site or at the English Language Institute, 320 Baldy Hall, North Campus. The SPEAK test can also be administered by appointment during the semester to students who are applying for assistantships. Individual students will be allowed to take a SPEAK test a maximum of two times during a semester.