English Language Requirements

If you decide to demonstrate English Language Proficiency via the TOEFL please arrange to be tested at least six weeks before the admissions deadline to ensure that results are received on time. Late TOEFL scores will mean a delay in the admission process and evaluation by the department.

We  accept unofficial student copies of TOEFL (that are less than two years old) on a provisional basis if admissions deadlines are approaching, provided the original is received directly from the Educational Testing Service in six weeks. The final admission decision may be delayed until the original copy is received by our office. 

For more information, visit TOEFL. 

You can also contact the Educational Services Division at the American Embassy in your country for more information on local TOEFL scheduling and testing centers.  TOEFL exam waivers can be requested if you feel you have a strong command of English. For more information, visit TOEFL exam waivers.

The institutional code for the Tisch School of the Arts is 9633. Your successful admission to Tisch will depend not only on satisfactory oral and written proficiency in English, but also on your knowledge of the field, its terminology, and history. The school cannot make an offer of admission on condition that you improve your language skills during the summer, but, if accepted, you may be asked to take a diagnostic examination prior to registration.

This test, taken through the American Language Institute (ALI), will help determine placement within the program. The amount of course work you will be allowed to take during the first two semesters will depend on a discretionary interpretation of the ALI test by the department. Remedial English language course work may be necessary during the initial academic semester(s) to balance out your studies and give you the required full-time credit load needed to maintain your student status. Enrollment in ALI course work may lengthen the time needed to complete your degree.

In place of the TOEFL, you may submit scores from IELTS, the International English Language Testing System. Complete information is available at IELTS.