University English requirements

What IELTS score do you need for Nanjing University?

Nanjing University asks applicants to English-taught master's programmes for IELTS 6.0, TOEFL 85 (or 4.5 on the new 1 to 6 scale), TOEFL Essentials 9 or Duolingo English Test 100. You must also reach HSK Level 3 in Chinese before you graduate. Native English speakers are exempt from sending a test result, according to the computer science master's page.Source: Nanjing University official English requirements · checked 31 October 2026
  • Guide updated · 31 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026

Nanjing University English scores

From the master's programmes page of NJU's international students institute, its degree programmes taught in English page and the School of Environment's 2026 Smart Environment master's brochure.

TestMaster's taught in English
IELTS6.0
TOEFL (0–120 scale)85
TOEFL (1–6 scale)4.5
TOEFL Essentials9
Duolingo English Test100

Chinese at graduation

Every English-taught master's page sets a graduation requirement of HSK Level 3. The Smart Environment programme also asks for basic Chinese listening, speaking, reading and writing at entry. Applicants must be under 40. The computer technology master's page exempts native English speakers from sending a test result and lists tuition of RMB 38,000 a year. PTE is not named.

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Dates and fees

The master's page gives an application window of 1 March to 20 May. The application fee is RMB 600, not refundable, and insurance costs RMB 400 a semester. The Smart Environment brochure lists tuition of 36,000 RMB a year for the 2026 intake.

Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Nanjing University programme page and in your offer, so check it there before you book a test.

Minimum vs competitive score

Where Nanjing 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 Nanjing University need?+

IELTS 6.0 for English-taught master's programmes.

Does Nanjing University accept Duolingo?+

Yes. Duolingo English Test 100 is accepted for English-taught master's.

Do I need Chinese for an English-taught master's at NJU?+

You must reach HSK Level 3 before graduation, and some programmes ask for basic Chinese at entry.

When can I apply to Nanjing University?+

The master's page gives 1 March to 20 May.

Keep reading

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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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