University English requirements

What PTE score do you need for Northeastern Illinois University?

Northeastern Illinois University asks for PTE Academic 44 or higher for undergraduate admission and 53 or higher for graduate admission. Some graduate programmes set a higher English score, listed on the application. Applicants below the minimum may be considered for International Conditional Admission with NEIU's SAELL English programme.
  • Guide updated · 2 November 2026
  • 3 sections
  • PTE

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 2 November 2026

NEIU PTE minimums by level

From the international students section of the NEIU catalog.

Programme or bandPTE overallMinimum per skill
Undergraduate44None stated
Graduate53None stated; some programmes ask for more

Test rules and how to send your score

The catalog asks you to have official scores sent to the Admissions Office. It does not mention PTE Academic Online, PTE Core, a validity period or a Pearson institution code.

On the same page, IELTS is 6.0 composite for undergraduates and 6.5 for graduates, so PTE 44 and 53 are the PTE routes to those levels. Duolingo is 105 and 120.

Know your target? Check where you stand

Take a free AI-scored PTE mock and see your score per skill before you book the real test. Free account, no card.

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Practise before you book: free PTE mock test, PTE predictions, PTE Core practice test and PTE to IELTS converter.

If you fall short

You can meet the requirement by enrolling in the SAELL Intensive English Program and passing Level 4 with at least 80% in all core classes. Applicants below the minimum may be considered for International Conditional Admission with SAELL, and an English Proficiency Waiver is available for English-medium schooling.

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

Frequently asked questions

What PTE score does NEIU need?+

44 for undergraduates and 53 for graduate programmes.

Do some NEIU programmes need more?+

Yes. Some graduate programmes set higher scores, listed on the application.

Does NEIU offer conditional admission?+

Yes, International Conditional Admission with the SAELL programme.

Can I get an English waiver at NEIU?+

Possibly, if you studied at an English-medium school. NEIU has a waiver form.

Keep reading

Related

Guide updated on 2 November 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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