Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 29 October 2026
GVSU English requirements by level
From GVSU's international application page, which covers undergraduate and graduate applicants. Scores must be sent directly by the testing agency; for IELTS you email your Test Report Form (TRF) number with your full name and GVSU reference number.
| Programme | IELTS Academic | Other tests |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 6.5 overall | TOEFL iBT 4.5 (86 prior scale), PTE 53, Duolingo 105, Cambridge C1/C2 180, Michigan English Test 52 |
| Graduate | 6.5 overall | TOEFL iBT 4.5 (86 prior scale), PTE 53, Duolingo 105 |
Other ways to meet the requirement
GVSU accepts the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL iBT Home Edition, but not TOEFL MyBest scores or TOEFL Essentials. Undergraduates can also use SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing 470, ACT English 15, AP English Language 3, or IB Higher Level English A or English B at 5.
Undergraduates are exempt with a US high school diploma or US college degree, 30 or more US college credits with a C or better in college English, or two years at an accredited US high school. Both levels publish an exempt country list that includes Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, the UK, Canada and Australia. India, Pakistan and Bangladesh are not on it.
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Graduate programmes and how to check
The graduate section notes that several graduate programmes also require the GRE, with GVSU's GRE code 1258. Programme pages can carry additional requirements, so read yours alongside the international application page.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admission cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your GVSU programme page and in your admission letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where Grand Valley 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 Grand Valley State University require?+
IELTS 6.5 overall for both undergraduate and graduate international applicants. No band minimums are listed.
Does GVSU accept Duolingo and PTE?+
Yes. Duolingo 105 and PTE 53 are accepted at both levels.
Does GVSU accept TOEFL Essentials?+
No. GVSU accepts the TOEFL iBT and Home Edition but not TOEFL Essentials or MyBest scores.
Are Indian applicants exempt from English tests at GVSU?+
No. India is not on GVSU's exempt country list, which includes Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya.
Keep reading
Related
- Universities in the USA accepting IELTS 6.5
- Michigan State University IELTS requirement
- Western Michigan University IELTS requirement
- Elmhurst University IELTS requirement
- IELTS for the USA: scores by university
- All 2279 guides
Guide updated on 29 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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