English Proficiency

International observers must provide proof of English language proficiency. To meet this requirement, applicants must achieve the minimum score on one of the approved proficiency exams:

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): 80

American Examination of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS):  6.5

Duolingo English Test:  110

Applicants are encouraged to submit scores prior to submitting your application. Scores must be no more than two years old on the day applicants are scheduled to begin their observer appointment. 

English Proficiency Exemptions

• Applicants who are U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents
• Applicants who have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited college or university in the U.S.
• Applicants who have earned the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree or higher from an international institution that is officially recognized by that country, and the country is on the English-Speaking Country and Territory list 
•  Applicants who are citizens from a country or territory listed on the English-Speaking Country and Territory list