University English requirements

What PTE score do you need for the University of South Carolina?

The University of South Carolina asks for a PTE score of 53 for both undergraduate and graduate admission. The Graduate School says language scores are valid for two years and must come directly from the testing service; for PTE you select University of South Carolina as the recipient. Undergraduates below 53 can seek conditional admission through English Programs for Internationals.
  • Guide updated · 1 November 2026
  • 3 sections
  • PTE

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

USC PTE minimums

The undergraduate figure is on the international undergraduate admissions page and the graduate figure on the Graduate School international applicants page.

Programme or bandPTE overallMinimum per skill
Undergraduate admission53None stated
Graduate admission53None stated

Sending PTE and validity

The Graduate School page says official scores must come directly from the testing service, that copies are not official, and that language test scores are valid for two years. Its list of codes gives the PTE recipient simply as "University of South Carolina". Neither page mentions PTE Academic Online or PTE Core.

For comparison, both pages ask IELTS 6.5 against PTE 53. The graduate page specifies IELTS Academic.

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If your PTE score falls short

USC's English Programs for Internationals offers undergraduate conditional admission to applicants who meet the academic requirements but not the English minimum, which it gives as PTE 53. Conditionally admitted students complete the right level of English courses, or meet the requirement, before taking university courses. The undergraduate page says to indicate interest in EPI and conditional admission on the application and to apply to EPI directly.

Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your USC 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 South Carolina need?+

PTE 53 for undergraduate and graduate admission.

How do I send PTE scores to USC?+

Send them from Pearson, choosing University of South Carolina as the recipient. Copies are not official.

How long are PTE scores valid for USC graduate admission?+

Two years.

Can I get conditional admission to USC with PTE below 53?+

Undergraduates can apply for conditional admission through English Programs for Internationals.

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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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