Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 29 October 2026
Tennessee State IELTS level
From the international admissions page. The page gives one set of requirements and does not separate undergraduate from graduate entry.
| Programme | IELTS | Other tests |
|---|---|---|
| International applicants (as listed) | 5.0 overall | TOEFL iBT 61, Duolingo 75, PTE Academic 50 |
Other routes
Instead of a test, the page accepts 12 hours of US college or university credit with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0, or successful completion of Level 7 of Tennessee State University's Intensive English Program.
Free test: are you at Tennessee State University's score yet?
Take a free AI-scored IELTS mock test and get a band for each skill, so you know how far you are from the requirement before you book the real test. Free account, no card.
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Graduate study and how to check
The page does not mention waivers or score validity, and gives no graduate-specific English levels. Graduate programmes may set their own, so check with TSU Graduate Admissions before you book.
The US F-1 student visa sets no English test score of its own. What counts is the requirement Tennessee State sets for admission, which leads to your Form I-20. For the wider picture, see IELTS for the USA.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admission cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Tennessee State programme page and in your admission letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where Tennessee State 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 Tennessee State need?+
A minimum overall IELTS score of 5.0, per the international admissions page.
Does Tennessee State accept Duolingo?+
Yes, with a minimum score of 75.
Does Tennessee State accept PTE?+
Yes, PTE Academic with a minimum score of 50.
Is the 5.0 IELTS for master's too?+
The page does not separate levels. Check your graduate programme, which may ask for more.
Keep reading
Related
- East Tennessee State University IELTS requirement
- Tennessee Tech IELTS requirement
- Vanderbilt University 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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