Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
BHSU English requirements
From BHSU's international students page. The page lists overall scores only.
| Programme | IELTS Academic | Other tests |
|---|---|---|
| International degree applicants | 5.5 | TOEFL iBT 61, TOEFL PBT 500, Duolingo 90, PTE 44, iTEP 3.6, TOEIC 600, E3PT 62 |
Other ways to meet the requirement
The page also accepts an SAT Critical Reading and Writing score of 480 as proof of English proficiency. In one list it also names a Gateway score of 375.
Test results must be sent from the testing agency to BHSU. Copies you upload yourself are not mentioned as an option.
Free test: are you at Black Hills State University's score yet?
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How to check
The page does not describe a conditional admission route or a pre-sessional English course, so contact the Office of International Relations and Global Engagement if your score is below 5.5.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admission cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your BHSU programme page and in your admission letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where Black Hills State 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 Black Hills State require?+
IELTS 5.5.
Does BHSU accept Duolingo?+
Yes. The minimum Duolingo score is 90.
What TOEFL and PTE scores does BHSU need?+
TOEFL iBT 61 (or 500 paper-based) and PTE 44.
Can I use the SAT instead of IELTS at BHSU?+
Yes. The page lists an SAT Critical Reading and Writing score of 480 as an alternative.
Keep reading
Related
- South Dakota State University IELTS requirement
- University of South Dakota IELTS requirement
- South Dakota Mines IELTS requirement
- IELTS for the USA: scores by university
- All 3605 guides
Guide updated on 31 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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