If English is not your native language, or you have not had three years of your secondary education taught in English, you will be required to provide proof of your English proficiency. Since most classes are taught in English, you must demonstrate your ability to read, write, and speak English.

CSU campuses will use the TOEFL to measure your English proficiency. The TOEFL test is given year-round at permanent testing centers around the world. There are three versions of the test — paper, Internet, and computer-based. A minimum score of 500 on the paper-based exam or 173 on the computer-based exam or a score of 61 on the internet (iBT) version is required on most campuses. Some campuses have higher score requirements, and some may require additional examinations. Be sure to review the information on English proficiency in the Campus Facts section on this site.

If you need to take the TOEFL, we recommend that you take the examination as soon as possible. There are registration deadlines for the TOEFL, and it does take approximately 2 to 5 weeks to obtain your results. You should have your official score sent directly to each college where you are applying for admission. Each college will have its own minimum score on either the paper TOEFL or on the computer-based TOEFL. You should have Educational Testing Service (ETS) send your official scores directly to each campus where you are applying for admission. For information about TOEFL, go to www.toefl.org.

Campuses may use the English Language Proficiency Test (ELPT) in lieu of the TOEFL for undergraduate admission. The required minimum score comparable to the TOEFL score of 500 is an ELPT score of 955. The ELPT is one of the SAT Subject Tests developed by the College Board and the Educational Testing Service. For information about ELPT, go to www.collegeboard.org and search for ELPT.