Master's: no English test required
EPFL's online application page lists the required documents and says extra documents, such as TOEFL or GRE scores, research publications or portfolios, are welcome but not compulsory.
Programme pages say the same. The MSc in Computer Science is taught entirely in English, so candidates must have strong English skills, but English certificates such as TOEFL or IELTS are welcome but not required. EPFL sets no IELTS, TOEFL, PTE or Duolingo minimum on the pages we read.
The level EPFL recommends
EPFL's teaching languages page recommends at least C1 in the teaching languages for students beginning at EPFL, and says most master's programmes are taught mainly in English while others are mainly in French. The EPFL Language Centre publishes a reference table linking CEFR levels to test results; it is guidance, not an admission rule.
| CEFR level | IELTS | Cambridge English |
|---|---|---|
| B1 | 4.0-5.0 | Preliminary (PET) |
| B2 | 5.5-6.5 | First (FCE) |
| C1 (EPFL's recommended level) | 7.0-8.0 | Advanced (CAE) |
| C2 | 8.5-9.0 | Proficiency (CPE) |
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Take a free scored IELTS mock →Bachelor's: taught mainly in French
The teaching languages page says all courses in the preparatory year (CMS) are in French. In the bachelor's, most courses are in French, with in principle at most one English course per semester; from the second year, study plans may include up to 50% English courses.
EPFL also warns that UK immigration authorities do not recognise its English-taught programmes as proof of English, so graduates heading to the UK may need a separate test.
EPFL's English pages we read do not set a separate English score for the student residence permit or visa. Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your EPFL programme page and in your admission decision, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
Does EPFL require IELTS for a master's?+
No. EPFL says English certificates such as TOEFL or IELTS are welcome but not required or compulsory.
What IELTS score does EPFL recommend?+
EPFL recommends C1 in the teaching language. Its Language Centre's reference table places C1 at IELTS 7.0-8.0, but this is not an admission minimum.
Does EPFL accept PTE or Duolingo?+
EPFL requires no English test, and the admission pages we read do not mention PTE or Duolingo.
Are EPFL bachelor's programmes taught in English?+
No. Most bachelor's courses are in French, with at most one English course per semester in principle and up to 50% English from the second year.
Does an EPFL degree prove English for a UK visa?+
EPFL says UK immigration authorities do not recognise its English-taught programmes as proof of English, so a separate recognised test may be needed.
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