Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 29 October 2026
Lipscomb English requirements by level
From Lipscomb's international undergraduate admission requirements and the graduate international students page. Overall scores only.
| Programme | IELTS Academic | Other tests |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 6.5 | Duolingo 105 (recommended), TOEFL iBT 80 (paper 550) |
| Graduate | 6.5 | TOEFL iBT 80 (before 21 Jan 2026) or 4, Duolingo 105 |
Waivers
All international undergraduates must submit an English score, but the requirement may be waived if you are a native English speaker or your education so far has been in English. Results must be sent directly by the testing service.
The graduate page notes that applicants with permanent resident status do not have to take the TOEFL. Lipscomb's TOEFL school code is 1161.
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What to check
Neither page lists PTE Academic, band minimums or a validity period. Graduate programmes may also ask for GMAT or GRE scores. Ask your admissions counselor before relying on an English-medium waiver.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admission cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Lipscomb programme page and in your admission letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where Lipscomb 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 Lipscomb University need?+
An overall band score of 6.5 for undergraduate and graduate applicants.
Does Lipscomb accept Duolingo?+
Yes, Duolingo 105. Lipscomb recommends it for undergraduates.
Can English-medium education waive IELTS at Lipscomb?+
The undergraduate page says the requirement may be waived if your education so far has been in English.
Does Lipscomb accept PTE?+
PTE is not listed. Accepted tests are Duolingo, TOEFL and IELTS.
Keep reading
Related
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- Vanderbilt University IELTS requirement
- MTSU IELTS requirement
- Tennessee State University IELTS requirement
- Duolingo vs IELTS for universities
- 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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