Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 1 November 2026
SEMO PTE minimums by applicant type
From SEMO's international admissions policies page, which sets out separate English requirements for undergraduate, pathway, transfer and graduate applicants. Graduate applicants are told to check whether their programme has different or higher English requirements.
| Programme or band | PTE overall | Minimum per skill |
|---|---|---|
| First-time undergraduate | 45 (PTE Express 45) | Not stated |
| Transfer | 45 (PTE Express 45) | Not stated |
| English Program Pathway | 40 to 43 | Not stated |
| Graduate (master's) | 53 (PTE Express 53) | Not stated; some programmes ask for more |
Validity, sending and the IELTS comparison
Results must have been completed within two years of your intended programme start date. For first-time freshman and first-time graduate applicants, SEMO makes admission decisions on unofficial copies of test scores, but official copies are still required: you cannot receive scholarship benefits or enrol in a second term until they arrive. Transfer applicants need official scores before a decision. The page warns that SEMO may verify scores directly with testing agencies and that fraudulent results lead to denial or revocation.
The page's list of official test score codes covers TOEFL, GRE, SAT and ACT only, with no Pearson code, and it does not mention PTE Academic Online or PTE Core. On the same page, IELTS Academic is 5.5 for undergraduates, 5.0 for the pathway and 6.0 for graduate applicants.
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If you fall short
Undergraduates can meet the requirement by completing Level 5 of SEMO's Intensive English Program, and graduate applicants by completing the IEP's GradCAP. A PTE Academic score of 40 to 43 qualifies for the English Program Pathway. Other undergraduate routes include SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing of 450, ACT 21 in English and Reading, ELS Level 112 and WAEC results sufficient for undergraduate admission.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your SEMO programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What PTE score does SEMO need?+
PTE Academic 45 for undergraduate and transfer applicants and 53 for graduate (master's) applicants.
Does SEMO accept PTE Express?+
Yes. PTE Express is listed at 45 for undergraduates and 53 for graduate applicants, the same as PTE Academic.
Can I get into SEMO with PTE 40?+
PTE Academic 40 to 43 is listed for the English Program Pathway, not for direct undergraduate admission.
How old can my PTE score be for SEMO?+
Results must have been completed within two years of your intended programme start date.
Keep reading
Related
- Southeast Missouri State University IELTS requirement
- Northwest Missouri State University PTE requirement
- PTE for the USA: scores by university
- How long PTE scores stay valid
- All 4937 guides
Guide updated on 1 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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