Foreign credential evaluation

Overcoming Language Barriers for Academic Success

International students seeking to join the vibrant community at WSU Vancouver must demonstrate foundational proficiency in the English language. This requirement ensures that every student possesses the communication skills necessary to excel in a rigorous academic environment and engage fully with faculty and peers. Whether you are applying from abroad or transitioning from another institution, meeting these standards is a vital step in your journey toward a degree.

Navigating the admissions process involves clear benchmarks for language mastery. At WSU Vancouver, students have multiple pathways to satisfy this requirement, ranging from standardized test scores to previous academic achievements in English-speaking environments. By providing flexible options, the university supports diverse international backgrounds while maintaining high standards for student success and integration.

Language Proficiency Exams

Applicants may satisfy the English requirement by achieving minimum scores on recognized standardized tests. WSU Vancouver accepts the following examinations:

Note

Other examinations may be accepted on a case-by-case basis. Please contact an admissions counselor for further information.

Questions?

Email: van.admissions@wsu.edu
Phone: 360-546-9788
Location:The Cougar Center is located in the upper level of the Student Services Center.

Cougar Center Schedule

  • Monday8:00am – 5:00pm
  • Tuesday8:00am – 5:00pm
  • Wednesday8:00am – 5:00pm
  • Thursday8:00am – 5:00pm
  • Friday8:00am – 5:00pm

Language Proficiency Waivers

You may qualify for a waiver of the English proficiency requirement if you meet any of the following criteria at the time of application:

  • English Coursework: Earn an unweighted 3.0 GPA or higher in transferable equivalents of English 101 and 102, with at least 27 transferable credits.
  • U.S. High School: Attend a U.S. high school for at least three years.
  • U.S. Higher Education: Earn at least 53 transferable credits from an accredited U.S. college or university with a minimum unweighted 2.5 GPA.
  • Associate Degree: Complete an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college with a minimum unweighted 2.5 GPA.
  • Instruction in English: Provide an official letter from an international school confirming English was the primary language of instruction during your attendance.
  • WSU IALC Program: Complete level 5 of the IALC program on the Pullman campus with a B average.
Important Notice

WSU Vancouver does not offer conditional admission for students enrolled in the IALC program in Pullman. Enrollment in the IALC and WSU Vancouver cannot occur simultaneously.

Country of Origin Exemptions

Applicants from the following countries are exempt from the English proficiency requirement:

RegionExempt Countries
Americas/CaribbeanBahamas, Barbados, British Guyana, Canada, Jamaica, Tobago, Trinidad
EuropeGreat Britain, Ireland
OceaniaAustralia, New Zealand
AfricaLiberia, Zambia