How To Get a Proof of English Proficiency to Study in the USA

Proof of English proficiency is a common requirement for admission to U.S. colleges and universities. Since classes are delivered in English, and course materials, exams, and discussions all take place in English, institutions want to ensure students are prepared to succeed in an English-speaking academic environment.

In this article, we’ll cover what English proficiency means, how you can test it, and the different ways you can provide proof when applying to colleges in the United States.

What Is English Proficiency?

Being proficient in English means you can communicate ideas clearly and understand others without needing to translate or pause for extended periods. It reflects a strong grasp of reading, writing, speaking, and listening in English.

Many people confuse fluency with proficiency, but they are not quite the same. Fluency generally refers to how smoothly and comfortably you can speak or read a language. You may still make occasional grammatical errors, but you’re able to carry on a conversation with ease.

Proficiency takes this a step further. It’s a more comprehensive measure of your ability across all language skills, often assessed through standardized exams. It suggests a confident command of grammar, sentence structure, and vocabulary—skills you’ll need for academic success.

The 5 Levels of English Language Proficiency

Language learning takes time, patience, and persistence. As students build their skills, they typically progress through five distinct stages of English language proficiency. Understanding these stages can help you gauge your current level and what’s needed to reach college-level proficiency.

Preproduction (No Proficiency)

At this early stage, students are complete beginners and understand very little or no English. Communication may be limited to nods or one-word answers. Teachers often use visuals, flashcards, and other tools to help ease students into basic understanding. This stage typically lasts around six months.

Beginning Production (Beginner)

Students begin to speak in short, simple phrases—usually in the present tense. Speech is hesitant, and common phrases are often repeated. This stage can last from six months to a year, depending on exposure and practice.

Speech Emergence (Limited Working Proficiency)

Students start to form complete sentences and understand basic conversations. However, they may struggle with idioms, humor, and complex grammar. Speech becomes more confident, though grammar and syntax errors are still common. This stage generally starts after one year of study and may last another two years.

Intermediate Fluency (Working Proficiency)

At this level, students can express themselves clearly in both writing and conversation, with only occasional mistakes. They’re able to contribute meaningfully in academic or professional settings and can ask specific questions when needed. Intermediate fluency typically develops after three to five years of consistent study.

Advanced Fluency

Students now use English much like a native speaker. They understand subtle language, humor, and regional dialects, and can adapt their speech in different settings. This level is usually achieved after seven years or more of study and is often the baseline for U.S. college admissions.

Source: Pexels

How to Test Your English Proficiency?

One of the most well-known English language certificates is the TOEFL (Test of English As A Foreign Language). It is most often taken online, but TOEFL paper exams are also delivered in places across the globe where internet connections are sparse or non-existent.

During the 3 hour TOEFL exam, students will be tested in 4 areas – reading, writing, listening, and speaking. There is a maximum of 30 points for each section, for a total of 120 points. Most colleges will require a score between 70 and 90, and the TOEFL certificate is valid for two years. The cost for taking the TOEFL is $205.

Another recognized language certificate is administered by the International English Language Testing System, more commonly known as IELTS. The IELTS academic version has four parts – listening, academic reading, academic writing, and speaking.

The testing lasts just under 3 hours and is delivered online and in paper format. IELTS scoring ranges from 0 to 9, and most colleges require at least a 5.5 to 6.5. The cost for the test is $210 to $340, depending on your region.

There are often many barriers to college admission but there are schools that have worked to remove some of the traditional obstacles. For example, the University of the People is one such institution. Our college offers fully online, tuition-free, accredited degree programs across several disciplines. Prospective students will need a high-school diploma or equivalent and proof of English proficiency.

How Do You Produce a Proof of English Proficiency?

If English is not your first language and you’re applying to study in the U.S., you’ll likely be asked to provide official proof of your English language proficiency. Each college or university may have different criteria, but the following are commonly accepted forms:

Language Certificate

A certificate from a recognized English proficiency exam (like TOEFL or IELTS) is the most widely accepted form of proof. Keep in mind that simply passing the exam may not be enough—make sure you meet the minimum score required by your chosen institution.

Confirmation of Registration

This shows that you are registered to take an English language exam. While some colleges may offer conditional acceptance based on this, it is rarely accepted as proof on its own.

Proof of Participation in Language Classes

Participation in English courses may strengthen your application, but it does not confirm proficiency. Most institutions will not accept this as sole proof.

Completed University Studies in English

If you’ve previously completed higher education where the primary language of instruction was English, some universities may accept this as sufficient proof. However, acceptance will depend on the institution and the location of your prior studies.

Record of Completed English Language Classes

Taking a certain number of English language classes may support your application but is unlikely to replace the need for an official language certificate.

Source: Pexels

The Bottom Line

Proving your English proficiency is key to gaining admission to colleges and universities in the United States. While reaching a high level of proficiency takes time and dedication, it’s an achievable goal with the right preparation.

Earning proof of English proficiency opens doors—not only to higher education, but also to better job prospects and wider social and professional opportunities. To set yourself up for success, be sure to research each institution’s specific language requirements, understand the acceptable test scores, and plan ahead.

If you’re unsure which type of proof to submit, don’t hesitate to reach out to the admissions team. Most colleges, including University of the People, are happy to guide prospective students through the application process.

FAQs

What is considered proof of English proficiency?

Proof typically includes a certificate from a recognized exam like TOEFL or IELTS. Some universities may also accept evidence of prior studies in English or other approved qualifications.

Can I get into a U.S. college without a TOEFL or IELTS score?

It depends on the institution. Some colleges offer conditional admission or accept alternatives, such as previous English-language education. Always check the specific requirements of each school.

How long is a TOEFL or IELTS certificate valid?

Both TOEFL and IELTS scores are valid for two years from the date of the test.

What score do I need to be accepted into a U.S. university?

Most U.S. colleges require a TOEFL score between 70–90 or an IELTS score of 5.5–6.5, but exact requirements vary.