University English requirements

What PTE score do you need for the University of Houston?

The University of Houston asks graduate applicants for a minimum Pearson Test of English score of 53. Scores must be valid and reportable when you apply and are generally valid for two years, and some graduate programmes require more. The undergraduate English requirements page lists TOEFL, IELTS and Duolingo, not PTE.
  • Guide updated · 1 November 2026
  • 3 sections
  • PTE

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 1 November 2026

University of Houston PTE minimums by level

From UH's graduate English proficiency page and the undergraduate English language requirements page.

Programme or bandPTE overallMinimum per skill
Graduate (university minimum)53No per-skill minimum printed
Graduate programmes with higher scoresSet by the programmeCheck the programme website
UndergraduateNot listedTOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo

Test rules and the IELTS comparison

Graduate scores must be valid and reportable at the time you submit your application and are generally valid for two years from the test date. The page asks for official scores but does not give a PTE sending method, and it does not mention PTE Academic Online or PTE Core.

On the same page, IELTS Academic needs 6.5 overall, TOEFL 79 (or 4 on the 6-point scale) and Duolingo 105.

Know your target? Check where you stand

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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

Graduate applicants can also meet the requirement by completing Level 6 of the Intensive English Program at UH's Language and Culture Center, or with a degree from a US institution or a listed English-speaking country.

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

Frequently asked questions

What PTE score does the University of Houston need?+

53 for graduate admission. Some programmes ask for more.

Does UH accept PTE for undergraduates?+

The undergraduate English page lists TOEFL, IELTS and Duolingo, not PTE.

How long is PTE valid for UH graduate admission?+

Scores are generally valid for two years and must be reportable when you apply.

Is there an English programme route at UH?+

Yes. Completing Level 6 of the Language and Culture Center's Intensive English Program meets the graduate requirement.

Keep reading

Related

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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