Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 29 October 2026
USM English requirements by route
From USM's English language requirements page, a single chart of minimum scores by academic programme. It gives overall IELTS scores only.
| Programme | IELTS Academic | Other tests |
|---|---|---|
| Direct entry, undergraduate degrees | 6.5 | TOEFL iBT 79, Pearson 53, Duolingo 105 |
| Direct entry, graduate degrees | 6.5 | TOEFL iBT 79, Pearson 53, Duolingo 105 |
| Admissions Pathway Program (undergraduate only) | 5.5 to 6.0 | TOEFL iBT 60, Pearson 46, Duolingo 90 |
| Intensive ESOL Program (currently paused) | 5.0 | TOEFL iBT 45, Duolingo 75 |
What the chart means
The Admissions Pathway Program is for undergraduate students only; graduate applicants need the direct-entry scores. The chart marks the Intensive ESOL Program as currently paused, so a score at that level does not give you a route in for now.
TOEFL scores are internet-based and superscored. The chart does not publish band minimums, exemptions or an English-medium waiver, so ask the Office of International Programs if you think one applies.
Free test: are you at the University of Southern Maine'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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Applying
The international students page says there is a US $50 application fee (no fee for Canadian applicants), and that undergraduate certificate programmes are not eligible for an I-20 student visa or scholarships, so apply for a bachelor's degree.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admission cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your USM programme page and in your admission letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where the University of Southern Maine 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 the University of Southern Maine need?+
IELTS 6.5 for direct entry to undergraduate and graduate degrees, or 5.5 to 6.0 for the undergraduate Admissions Pathway Program.
Does USM accept PTE and Duolingo?+
Yes. Pearson 53 or Duolingo 105 for direct entry, and Pearson 46 or Duolingo 90 for the Admissions Pathway.
Can graduate students use the USM Admissions Pathway?+
No. The chart says the Admissions Pathway Program is for undergraduate students only.
Does USM superscore TOEFL?+
Yes. The chart says its TOEFL minimums are internet-based and superscored.
Keep reading
Related
- Universities in the USA accepting IELTS 6.5
- University of Maine IELTS requirement
- University of New Hampshire IELTS requirement
- University of Vermont 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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