Applicants to the ½ðɳÓéÀÖ University PhD in Vision Science program must be proficient in English. Proof of English proficiency is required for non-native English speakers, including resident aliens and citizens, and can be satisfied in one of the following ways:
- Achieving satisfactory official test scores:
- TOEFL: Paper-based 550 overall; computer-based 213 overall; internet-based 80 overall
- IELTS: 6.5 overall
- Chinese College English Test Band 6 (CET-6): 520 or above
- Duolingo English Test (DET): 115
- Pearson Test of English Academic (PTEA): 58
- Test of English for International communication (TOEIC): 780
- Have a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited college or university where English is the only language of instruction.
Test scores are valid for two years after the test date. However, it will be considered good if the score exceeds the minimum requirement and the applicant has maintained continuous residency in the United States since the exam date. Conditional admission may be given without a report of English proficiency for two application cycles, starting from the current application. The student must meet the English proficiency requirement before enrolling in the program. After two cycles, the admission offer is void, and the applicant must re-apply for admission.
Insufficient evidence of English language proficiency:
- Test score less than ½ðɳÓéÀÖ's minimum requirement
- Test score more than two years old (unless applicants have been living in the US since the exam date)
- Institutional TOEFL score from any school except ½ðɳÓéÀÖ University
- Completion of an English as a Second Language (ESL) program at any school
- Successful completion of English, writing, or literature courses at any college or university
- An associate degree from a community college in the United States