Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Aurora English requirements
From Aurora's international students admission page and the international students section of its catalogue.
| Programme | IELTS Academic | Other tests |
|---|---|---|
| International applicants (admission page) | 6.5 | TOEFL iBT 79, PBT 550 or CBT 213; Duolingo 110; ACT English and Reading 19; SAT ERW 510 |
| International applicants (catalogue) | 6.5 | TOEFL iBT 79, PBT 550 or CBT 213; ELS level 109 |
Students from English-speaking countries
The catalogue says students from English-speaking countries must submit an official ACT report with a minimum composite score of 19, or an equivalent SAT score. Official English test scores must be sent directly to the Office of Admission.
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Graduate applicants and how to check
The admission page says additional documentation may be required for graduate applicants and gives Graduate Admission's phone number, 630-947-8955. Transcripts from outside the US need a NACES-member evaluation.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admission cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Aurora programme page and in your admission letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where Aurora University publishes an IELTS score, it is the minimum: the floor an application has to meet to be considered, not a score that guarantees an offer.
Competitive programmes, and courses with far more applicants than places, may expect more than the minimum, and some departments set their own overall or per-skill scores, often for writing or speaking. The course page has the final word, so check it before you book a test.
If you are close to the line, aim for a margin above it: one weak skill can miss the requirement even when the overall band clears it. Not sure where you stand? Take a free IELTS mock test and get a band for each skill.
Frequently asked questions
What IELTS score does Aurora University require?+
IELTS 6.5 or higher.
Does Aurora University accept Duolingo?+
Yes, with a score of 110 or higher.
Can I use SAT or ACT instead of IELTS at Aurora?+
Yes. ACT English and Reading subscores of 19 or SAT ERW of 510 are listed.
Does Aurora accept ELS?+
The catalogue lists ELS level 109.
Keep reading
Related
- Northern Illinois University IELTS requirement
- Saint Xavier University IELTS requirement
- Illinois Wesleyan University IELTS requirement
- Free IELTS mock test with AI band score
- All 3112 guides
Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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