Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
VCSU English requirements
From VCSU's international students page. The page gives overall minimums only.
| Programme | IELTS Academic | Other tests |
|---|---|---|
| International applicants | 6.0 | PTE Academic 47, Duolingo 105, TOEFL iBT 71, Cambridge English 170 |
Who needs a test
The test is required if English is not your native language. The page does not list English-medium schooling or country exemptions, so ask admissions if you think you qualify for a waiver.
Academic records also go to an evaluation centre for US equivalency. VCSU recommends InCred, and other approved evaluators are listed on the North Dakota University System website.
Free test: are you at Valley City 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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Score validity and how to check
Scores older than two years are not accepted, so plan your test date around your application. The page does not mention a conditional admission route.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admission cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your VCSU programme page and in your admission letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where Valley City 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 score does Valley City State require?+
IELTS 6.0.
Does VCSU accept Duolingo?+
Yes. The minimum Duolingo score is 105.
What PTE and TOEFL scores are accepted?+
PTE Academic 47 and TOEFL iBT 71.
How old can my test score be?+
No more than two years. Older scores are not accepted.
Keep reading
Related
- North Dakota State University IELTS requirement
- University of North Dakota IELTS requirement
- Minot State University IELTS requirement
- How long is an IELTS score valid?
- All 3605 guides
Guide updated on 31 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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