English language proficiency

English is the primary language of instruction at Athabasca University. Applicants whose first language is not English, or who have not completed their secondary or post-secondary education in English speaking countries, must demonstrate English Language Proficiency in the ways outlined below before they are allowed to register in AU courses:

• Successfully completed a minimum of 15 credits (e.g. five, 3-credit courses) from a recognized English-speaking post-secondary institution;
• ELP exams – test scores cannot be older than 2 years and must be official (i.e. issued directly from the testing centre):
  • A minimum score of 6 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Academic level is required;
  • A minimum score of 60 on the Carleton University's Canadian Academic English Language Assessments (CAEL);
  • A minimum score of 80 on the English Proficiency Test administered by the English Language Institute of the University of Michigan (MELAB);
  • A minimum overall score of 59 on the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic, with no less than 51 in each of the 4 communicative skills;
  • A minimum score of 80, with a minimum essay score of 20, and a minimum score of 46 on all other bands on the Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (T.O.E.F.L). NOTE: the paper-based test will not be accepted;
  • Duolingo – a minimum score of 105 with a minimum of 75 on each band.
• Successful completion of AU's English Language Proficiency Program, with an overall average of 75 per cent (GPA of 3.0).