Language Skills: TOEFL

Unless English is your native language, you will probably be required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) to prove your fluency with English. Justifiably or not, many American schools place great emphasis upon your TOEFL score.

Many schools may require a paper-based score of a least 550 (or a computer-based score of at least 213) in order for you to enroll. Higher scores are required for some majors.

Even if you speak English well, you should not avoid taking the test. A good score (higher than 600-650) can improve your chances of getting into the school of your choice.

You can probably take the TOEFL in your home country. For more information about the TOEFL test and the Test of Written English (TWE), head to the TOEFL website. This site explains how TOEFL works in great detail, and it offers practice questions as well.

Foreign Language Schools

It is likely that the school to which you are applying offers English as a Second Language (ESL) courses for individuals in your position. For example, the University of Southern California (USC) has developed an ESL program called the American Language Institute for its international students (USC was chosen as "College of the Year" by the 2000 edition of the Time/Princeton Review College Guide). The National American University in South Dakota offers summer classes for high school students from foreign countries so they can brush up on their English in preparation for university studies. You will find many similar programs at schools throughout the United States.

Of course, there are probably many foreign language schools in your home country. You will want to investigate these schools thoroughly before agreeing to study anywhere. Some schools understand that a U.S. student visa is a valuable commodity, and you will want to make sure they are not taking financial advantage of students who are in desperate need of proving their English proficiency. Look for a high standard of professionalism and make sure you are going to get what you pay for.