Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 29 October 2026
John Cabot English scores
From JCU's undergraduate English language requirements (approved 1 October 2025) and the MA in International Affairs admissions page.
| Level | IELTS | Other tests |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate degree admission | CEFR C1 | TOEFL 95 or higher; PTE 58; Cambridge CAE 180 or higher; Linguaskill C1 (180+) |
| Placement into ENLUS II | CEFR B2 | TOEFL 72–94; PTE 52–57; Cambridge FCE 160–180 |
| Placement into ENLUS I | CEFR B1 | TOEFL 42–71; PTE 30–41; Cambridge PET 140–160 |
| MA in International Affairs | IELTS Academic 7.0 in each subtest | Cambridge C1 Advanced 185; PTE Academic 70 |
Exemptions, Duolingo and the placement test
Undergraduates need no test after two years of study in a US-accredited, IB or UK diploma programme taught only in English, or two years in an English-speaking country on the UK list. JCU's own English Language Placement Test can replace any of the exams.
Duolingo is accepted, but JCU sets no minimum: the English Department and Admissions Committee review every Duolingo score. For the MA, a letter from your degree-granting institution confirming English as the primary language of instruction can replace a test.
Free test: are you at John Cabot University's score yet?
Take a free AI-scored IELTS mock test and get a band for each skill, so you know how far you are from the requirement before you book the real test. Free account, no card.
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ENLUS if you score at B2
Students who meet the academic entry requirements but lack enough English may enter the ENLUS Program, an intensive English course that prepares students for university study. The Admissions Committee may ask for more documents if your English is in question.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your John Cabot University programme page and in your offer, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where John Cabot 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 does John Cabot University need?+
IELTS at CEFR C1 for undergraduate degree admission; JCU's table states the CEFR level, not a band number.
Does John Cabot University accept Duolingo?+
Yes, but with no published minimum: each Duolingo score is reviewed by the English Department and Admissions Committee.
What PTE does John Cabot need?+
PTE Academic 58 for undergraduate admission and 70 for the MA in International Affairs.
What IELTS does the JCU MA in International Affairs need?+
IELTS Academic 7.0 in each subtest.
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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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