English Proficiency
English Proficiency Requirements
In order to successfully participate and complete college level classes, you must be able to listen, read, speak and write in the English language. The English proficiency test score is a requirement for admission to the College.
Proof of English Proficiency
The most common examinations accepted as proof of English proficiency from international students are TOEFL and IELTS, but below is a complete list of exams accepted by the Office of International Student Programs.
Note: Results more than two years old will not be accepted.
Accepted Tests |
Minimum Requirements
|
|---|---|
|
TOEFL (exams taken before January 21, 2026) |
61 iBT or 46 PBT |
|
TOEFL Band Score |
3.5 |
|
6.5 |
|
|
5.5 |
|
|
95 |
|
|
500 EBRW |
|
|
Level 4 |
|
|
45 |
|
|
175 (Advance Exam) |
|
|
1100 |
|
|
2A |
|
|
60 |
Other English Proficiency Waivers
Must be verified by a transcript or other documentation. We do not guarantee waivers and must review the application in order to make a decision.
Waiver Types |
Required
|
|---|---|
|
High/secondary school completion in countries where English is the primary language of instruction (view list of eligible countries) |
Official transcript |
|
Completion of 3+ years at an international high/secondary school where English is the primary language of instruction |
Official transcript and a letter on school's letterhead, stating that English was the primary language of instruction |
|
IB (International Baccalaureate) English A HL or SL |
"4" or higher |
|
Completed English A and B courses in Scandinavian countries |
Sweden: "C" or higher Norway: "4" or higher Others: "VG" or "MVG" |
|
Completed college-level English/Composition at a U.S. college or university. |
Official transcript with grade "C" or higher |
Language Schools
Students who did not meet the English proficiency score can choose to attend one of our partner English language schools.
Students who attend a partner language school will receive a Conditional Letter of Admission. Once the proper level is achieved, the student can transfer to Foothill College and receive full admission.
Visit Conditional Admission for list of partner language schools.
Contact UsInternational Student Programs Office650.949.7293foothillinternational@fhda.edu |
