The program is conducted entirely in English, primarily written English, and requires strong English composition skills. It is our sincere goal to ensure that applicants are able to be successful in the program, and success requires the ability to understand and critique what others have written and for others to understand and critique what you have written. Course papers and the final project paper are expected to be written at a graduate academic level, free from typical errors of grammar, spelling and construction.
Applicants whose native language is not English and who are not US naturalized citizens must show high proficiency in written English. If proof of English proficiency is required, it will show as a requirement in your application. Acceptable methods of demonstrating proficiency include one of the following:
- A prior degree from an English-language university or college in an exempt country. A list of exempt countries can be found on the Graduate School website. Please note that Quebec is not exempt.
- English proficiency test scores, preferably from TOEFL or IELTS, within the past five (5) years. The following are the minimum test scores we look for:
- TOEFL internet-based test: score of 94 overall, with 22 for Reading and 24 for Writing
- IELTS: band scores of 7 for Reading, Writing and Overall
English proficiency will not be judged based on test scores alone; we will also consider your admissions essay and other communications with the program staff, including emails.
Requirement Waiver: If you have passed the USMLE, we can request a waiver of this requirement – please upload your scores into your application. Waivers are not approved based on living and working in the US or other English-language country, or any other documentation of English proficiency in lieu of the above requirements. For more information, please see the Graduate School webpage on International Student Admission.