Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 2 November 2026
Southern Miss PTE minimums by level
From Southern Miss's undergraduate international admissions page and graduate international admissions page.
| Programme or band | PTE overall | Minimum per skill |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (PTE Academic or PTE Express) | 54 | None stated |
| Graduate (PTE Academic) | 54 | None stated; departments may require more |
Test rules and how to send your score
Both pages accept official scores directly from the testing agency. The graduate page says you may also upload your official score report to the application for validation, and you will be told if it cannot be validated. Neither page mentions PTE Academic Online, PTE Core or a validity period. The code 1479 is for ETS tests.
On the same lists, IELTS Academic is 6.0 overall at both levels, so PTE 54 is the PTE route to the IELTS 6.0 level. Duolingo is 110.
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If you fall short
The graduate page says applications that do not meet the minimum score are automatically denied, and each department may require higher scores. Undergraduates can meet the requirement through qualifying English courses, such as C or better in English Composition I and II at an accredited US college. Neither page describes a conditional admission or pathway with a PTE entry point.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Southern Miss programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What PTE score does Southern Miss need?+
PTE Academic overall 54 for undergraduates and graduate applicants.
Does Southern Miss accept PTE Express?+
Yes, for undergraduates, at an overall 54.
What happens if my graduate PTE score is below 54?+
The graduate page says applications below the minimum are automatically denied.
Can I upload my PTE score report to Southern Miss?+
Graduate applicants may upload it for validation; official scores still come from the testing agency.
Keep reading
Related
- University of Southern Mississippi IELTS requirement
- University of West Alabama PTE requirement
- PTE for the USA: scores by university
- PTE score report explained
- All 5495 guides
Guide updated on 2 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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