Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 29 October 2026
NSU English requirements by level
From NSU's international student admission requirements page. Overall scores only.
| Programme | IELTS Academic | Other tests |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 6.5 | TOEFL iBT 79 (paper 550), Duolingo 100, ACT English 18, SAT ERW 500, Accuplacer NG Writing 250 |
| Graduate | 6.5 | TOEFL iBT 79 (paper 550), Duolingo 100 |
Who must submit proof
Students whose second language is English must show college-level English. Proof is not required from students whose native language is English, or from applicants transferring from another college or university within the United States.
Undergraduate transfer students must also have completed a college-level English course with a C or better, among other transfer criteria.
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Graduate notes
Graduate applicants submit a course-by-course credential evaluation with GPA, GRE scores if the programme requires them, and any Graduate School and programme requirements. Applicants interested in Nursing, Education or Psychology should contact the Graduate School first to check they qualify. The page does not list PTE, band minimums or a validity period.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admission cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Northwestern State programme page and in your admission letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where Northwestern State University of Louisiana 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 Northwestern State University need?+
IELTS 6.5 for both undergraduate and graduate international applicants.
Does NSU Louisiana accept Duolingo?+
Yes, a Duolingo score of 100.
Does NSU Louisiana accept PTE?+
PTE is not on the list of accepted scores.
Do US transfer students need IELTS at NSU?+
No. Proof is not required from applicants transferring from another US college or university.
Keep reading
Related
- Universities in the USA accepting IELTS 6.5
- Nicholls State University IELTS requirement
- Louisiana Tech IELTS requirement
- UL Lafayette 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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