Minimum English Language Proficiency for Entry

As English is the language of instruction at the University of Adelaide, proficiency in speaking, listening to, reading and writing English is essential.

All domestic applicants for a Higher Degree by research must provide evidence of their English proficiency before an offer of a place is made. Evidence of at least one year in the last two years, or two years in the last five years study in English in tertiary education at an Australian university is generally sufficient for this purpose.

Domestic and international applicants may however submit the results of a suitable English test, which has been undertaken within two years of the date of application. For details regarding the acceptable test types and the minimum test scores required, please refer to the English language requirements for Higher Degree by Research Programs.

International students without the level of English required for direct entry to the degree program may be eligible to complete an Academic English Pre-enrolment English Program (PEP) prior to the commencement of the degree. As a part of the admission process, the University can arrange an appropriate PEP to be undertaken at the English Language Centre in Adelaide. For information about the PEP entry requirements please refer to the Academic English Pathways.

The PEP provides an alternative entry pathway for eligible international students who have received offers to the University of Adelaide that are packaged with the PEP. Students must satisfactorily complete the PEP to meet the English language condition of their offer before being admitted to the University of Adelaide, at which time they are granted direct entry into the degree program that has been offered.

To be considered for a scholarship, applicants are not permitted to undertake the PEP as a way to meet the English language requirements. Applicants wishing to apply for a University of Adelaide scholarship must provide evidence that meets the University's English language requirements for direct entry to the degree program before the scholarship closing dates. Students who intend to sit an appropriate English test must ensure that their official test results are provided prior to the scholarship closing date.