Messiah University reviews applications in light of several factors, one of which is an English proficiency requirement. To be admitted to Messiah, students must meet the requirement by submitting standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, CLT, TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test or Pearson PTE) or by demonstrating the completion of prior studies in English.
Standardized Test Scores
Test score reports can be requested directly from the testing agency or may be uploaded via Messiah University's secure system. Please email international@messiah.edu to request the link.
- SAT: A score of 530 or higher on the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section. Our average SAT composite score is 1196. The SAT essay is not required for admission.
- ACT: Score of 24 or higher on the English section. Our average ACT composite score is 26.
- CLT: Score of 50 or higher on the Verbal Reasoning and Grammar Writing section.
Taking the SAT, ACT, or CLT is suggested in order to qualify for the highest academic scholarships. These test results must be submitted to Messiah directly from the testing institution or sent by your school as part of your official transcript.
- TOEFL: On the internet-based test (iBT), composite score of 80 minimum. On the revised paper-delivered exam (introduced in 2017), score of 20 minimum in each of the Reading, Listening and Writing sections. On the old paper-based test (PBT), total score of 550 minimum.
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 minimum.
- Duolingo English Test: Score of 105 minimum.
- Pearson PTE: Score of 53 minimum.
Completion of Prior English Studies
Students from some countries may be exempt from the English proficiency requirement. Contact international@messiah.edu to determine eligibility.
**Students transferring from a U.S. college/university: If you have completed 24 credits or more of full-time academic coursework and received a grade of C (2.0 GPA) or higher in a standard English composition course, then we will waive the English proficiency requirement.