Proficiency tests in English
TOEFL
The TOEFL test is a requirement for admission into colleges and universities where instruction is in English. In addition, many government, licensing, and certification agencies, as well as exchange and scholarship programs, use TOEFL scores to evaluate the English proficiency of people whose native language is not English.
ETS, the company behind TOEFL, now mainly organises an internet-based test, the TOEFL iBT. Various universities and other score users have reported their minimum score requirements to ETS. You can find more information in this PDF folder.
In general, K.U.Leuven requires a minimum score of 79-80 on the TOEFL iBT test (equivalent to 213 on a computer-based TOEFL test or to 550 on a paper-based TOEFL test). Please note, however, that certain academic programmes have higher language proficiency requirements so you must always check the admission requirements of the specific programme you would like to enrol in. Also, minimum scores for admission to a Predctoral or Doctoral programme can be higher. Consult the website of the appropriate K.U.Leuven Doctoral School.
Comparison table
| TOEFL iBT | Computer-Based TOEFL | Paper-Based TOEFL |
|---|---|---|
| 79-80 | 213 | 550 |
| 92-93 | 237 | 580-583 |
| 100 | 250 | 600-603 |
IELTS
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an international standardised test of English language proficiency. It is managed jointly, among others, by the British Council and the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations.
K.U.Leuven accepts scores from the Academic Version IELTS test, which is intended for those who want to enrol in universities and other institutions of higher education. The minimum score required by K.U.Leuven is 6.5 - 7.5. Please note, however, that certain academic programmes have higher language proficiency requirements so you must always check the admission requirements of the specific programme you would like to enrol in. Also, minimum scores for admission to a Predctoral or Doctoral programme can be higher. Consult the website of the appropriate K.U.Leuven Doctoral School.
