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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
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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.
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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:
Subject
Office
Telephone
E-mail
General Questions
Office of Global Strategies & International Affairs