International scholars who are applying for J-1 Exchange Visitor visas must comply
with the U.S. State Department requirements to demonstrate English language proficiency
that is sufficient: (1) to participate successfully in their exchange programs; and
(2) to function on a day-to-day basis in the United States [22 CFR §62.10(a)(2)].
The host department must verify an applicant’s English language proficiency through
a recognized English language test by a signed documentation from an academic institution
or English language school, or through a documented interview conducted by the sponsor
(either in-person or by video conference).
If the host faculty member cannot firmly establish sufficient English proficiency,
then it is not appropriate to request a DS-2019 for the J-1 scholar, as they are not
eligible for a J-1 status.
Ways To Verify English Proficiency
1
Waived By Virtue of Permanent Residence In One Of The Exempt Countries
If the scholar is a permanent resident of one of the exempt listed countries, they are eligible to be waived from the English proficiency requirement. In that
case, the host department must produce a letter on department letterhead that states
that the scholar is exempt from the English proficiency requirement since they are
a permanent resident of <insert country name>. This document/letter should be uploaded while filling the Google Form for requesting
a DS-2019.
2
Degrees Earned From An English-medium Institution Of Higher Education
If a scholar has earned a degree (BA, BS, MA, or PhD) from an English-medium institution
of higher education, they may also be eligible for an exemption from the English proficiency
requirement. In this case, scholars must provide a transcript or diploma from an internationally-recognized
institution of higher education indicating that an English-medium degree program was
completed.
For institutions located outside the United States, the transcript should confirm
that English was the primary language of instruction for the degree program completed.
Completed degrees in which only some courses were conducted in English, or degrees
earned exclusively through online coursework, cannot be used as evidence of English
language proficiency.
3
Internationally-recognized Test of English
Scholars must provide official results from one of the standardized tests below for
verification and certification of oral proficiency in English.
|
Test Name
|
Minimum score required to comply with MTU's English proficiency requirement
|
|
IELTS
|
6.5
|
|
TOEFL-iBT (internet-based test
|
Total score 80 (individual score for the Speaking section must be minimum 18)
|
4
A Documented Interview Report Conducted By Department's Sponsor
The interview should be conducted and have the J-1 English Proficiency: Interview
Assessment Report completed by someone who has the authority to evaluate the scholar's
credentials for success in their program. This might include, but is not limited to,
the MTU PI/Faculty Sponsor, Director, Dean, Human Resources Personnel, or Program
Manager. This individual must be able to justify the scholar's English language ability
to the U.S. Department of State.
5
Visiting Scholar and Exchange Student Online English Language Assessments
These assessments cost $25 each. A passing proficiency rating is required. For more
information about the assessment (including the procedure to schedule it), please
visit the Visiting Scholar English language Assessment.
Improving Your English Communication Skills After Coming To Michigan Tech
J-1 Scholars and J-2 dependents who wish to improve their English communication skills may use the following resources.
Elaine Bacon Literacy Program
The Elaine Bacon Literacy Program is composed of individual one-on-one classes as
well as conversations with a "conversation partner". Please visit the Elaine Bacon website for scheduling classes and for further information.
International Neighbors is a long-standing local organization focused on fostering social and cultural connections
within the community. It provides a welcoming environment to meet people and learn
more about the area.
- Meetings: Weekly on Thursday mornings at 10:00 AM during the academic year (Please check their
site or contact them for the most current schedule, especially around holidays and
breaks).
- Location: Portage Lake United Church (located near the MTU campus).
Find out more about International Neighbors
We encourage graduate students to take advantage of these excellent on-campus and
community programs for writing development, language support, and social engagement.
