English is the exclusive language of instruction in my institution, do I still need to appear for English proficiency exams?

Question

Priya Singhania · Accepted Answer

It depends on the requirements of the specific institution and program you are applying to study abroad. Some institutions and programs may require you to take an English proficiency test, even if English is the exclusive language of instruction at your current institution. This may be to ensure that you will be able to understand and participate in class discussions and complete coursework in English.
Other institutions and programs may not require an English proficiency test if you have studied English for a certain period of time. It's best to check the application requirements for the specific program you are interested in to see if an English proficiency test is required.
Whether or not a college or university requires an English proficiency test score can vary depending on the institution and the specific program you are applying to. Many universities or colleges may not require English proficiency test scores if you are a native speaker of English, have completed your undergraduate degree in an English-medium institution, or have completed a specific amount of time in education where English was the medium of instruction.
It's best to check the application requirements for the specific program you are interested in, if it is not mentioned on the university website, you may contact the admissions office for clarification regarding English proficiency requirements for your program.
I hope this answers your question. If you have any other questions feel free to leave a comment below.

Divya Rastogi · Answer

Even if English is the exclusive language of instruction at your institution, you may still be required to take an English proficiency exam when applying to other programs or institutions. This requirement often applies regardless of the language of instruction at your previous institution, especially if your native language is not English.
For example, institutions like Harvard Kennedy School and McGill University require proof of English proficiency through tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge English exams, unless certain specific exemptions are met. Therefore, it's crucial to verify the English proficiency requirements of the university you are applying to, as they can vary significantly.