Language Requirements
You are not required to submit an English-language test if you:
- resided in an English-speaking country for at least 4 years immediately prior to September 2024 or
- attended an English-speaking educational institution in a full-time academic (non-ESL) program for at least 4 years immediately prior to September 2025. Official documentation from the school is required for this exemption.
The Admissions Committee reserves the right to request more information about your test score results and you may be required to take another English-language test at the university's discretion. Acceptable tests are currently under review. For updates, .
| Test | Score |
|---|---|
| Minimum TOEFL Score | 86 iBT (minimum of 20 in each of the 4 categories) |
| Minimum IELTS Score | 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each of the 4 components (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening); results valid for 2 years |
| Minimum CAEL Score | 70 overall with no component score below 60; valid for 2 years |
| PTE (Pearson Test of English) | 60 overall (minimum 60 in both Writing and Speaking); valid for 2 years |
| Other Test Scores | Cambridge Advanced English (CAE): 190 overall with minimum score of 180 in each component; valid for 2 years. Grade of B with a minimum of "good" on each of the 4 components: Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. Duolingo English Test: 115 for all direct-entry undergraduate programs. Results must be sent directly to McMaster electronically from the testing centre. |
Last Test Date
2025-Apr-01 - McMaster's Institution Code is 0936.