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Policies and Regulations

REGULATION TITLE: English Language Proficiency

APPLIES TO: International Student Applicants

ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITY: Office of Global Strategies & International Affairs Office of the Provost and Vice President of Academic & Student Affairs Division of Academic & Student Affairs

APPROVED BY: Kentucky State University Board of Regents

EFFECTIVE DATE: August 8, 2025

NEXT REVIEW DATE: August 8, 2028

REGULATION STATEMENT:

This regulation implements Kentucky State University (KSU) admissions policies by establishing the standards and methods by which international applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency as a condition of admission. This ensures all students possess the necessary language skills to succeed in their academic pursuits at KSU.

DEFINITIONS:

International Student Applicant

An individual applying for admission to KSU who is not a citizen or permanent resident of the United States and who requires a visa for study.

Official Score Report

An English proficiency test score report sent directly to KSU from the testing agency or a verifiable copy provided by the applicant. To be considered valid, test scores must be from an examination taken within two (2) years prior to the application date.

Post-Baccalaureate Applicant

An applicant seeking admission to a program, such as a master's degree or graduate certificate, for which a bachelor's degree is a prerequisite.

PROCESS:

Proficiency Requirement

All international student applicants must provide evidence of English language proficiency to be considered for admission to KSU.

Waiver of Proficiency Documentation

The requirement to submit specific English proficiency test scores may be waived if an applicant meets one of the following criteria:

• Is a citizen of a country where the native, primary, or official language is English.
• Has earned a bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. institution of higher education.
• Has earned a bachelor's degree or higher from an institution in a country where English is the official language and the language of instruction.
• Provides official documentation verifying their previous degree program was delivered entirely in English.
• Applicants who believe they qualify for a waiver should contact the Office of Global Strategies and International Affairs to confirm their eligibility.

Accepted Methods for Demonstrating Proficiency

Applicants who do not meet the waiver conditions must demonstrate proficiency by submitting an official score report from one of the following, taken within two (2) years of the application date:

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT): A minimum score of 70.
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic): A minimum overall band score of 6.0.
• Duolingo English Test: A minimum score of 95 for undergraduate admission or 100 for graduate admission.
• English as a Second Language (ESL) Program: Evidence of successful completion of an approved intensive English language program. Applicants must consult with the Office of Global Strategies and International Affairs to confirm their ESL program is approved.

Institutional Discretion

The Office of Admissions, in consultation with the Office of the Provost and the Office of Global Strategies and International Affairs, reserves the right to require an English proficiency assessment or further documentation.

from any applicant, regardless of other criteria met. Applicants are encouraged to contact the Office of Global Strategies and International Affairs for the most current information.

REFERENCES AND RELATED MATERIALS:

KSU Application for Admission

CONTACTS:

HISTORY: