To study at San Francisco Bay University, you must be able to understand, speak, read, and write in English proficiently. This helps ensure you are ready for classes taught in English.
Who Needs to Show English Proficiency
You need to submit an English test score if:
- English is not your first language, and
- Your most recent education was not taught in English.
Who Is Exempt
You do not need to submit an English test score if:
- You completed high school, college, or university in a country where English is the main language of instruction, or
- You earned a degree from a school where all classes were taught in English.
Examples of countries where English is the main language of instruction include but not limited to:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Canada (except Quebec)
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Ireland
- South Africa
- Nigeria
- Kenya
- Jamaica
- Philippines
- Singapore
- India (English-medium institutions only)
If you are not sure whether you qualify for an exemption, please contact our admissions team (admissions@sfbu.edu).
How to Request a Waiver
If you believe you meet the exemption criteria, you can request a waiver by:
- Submitting your transcripts or proof of English instruction,
- Requesting a waiver through the admissions office
- Waiting for a decision from our admissions team.
For questions, email us at admissions@sfbu.edu.
English Language Proficiency Tests
San Francisco Bay University accepts a variety of English proficiency tests. The table below provides information about each test, including the minimum score required, how the test is delivered, approximate cost, and length to help you choose the best option.
| Test Name | Minimum Score | Test Format | Approx. Test Length | Estimated Cost |
| TOEFL iBT | 59 | Online or In-person | 2 hrs. | $195-$255 |
| TOEFL Essentials | 6.5 band | Online | 1.5 hrs. | $100-$120 |
| IELTS Academic | 5.5 | In-person | 2 hrs. 45 min | $245-$255 |
| Duolingo English Test | 100 | Online | 1 hr. | $59 |
| iTEP Academic | 3.7 | Online or In-person | 90 min. | $129 |
| PTE Academic / Online | 50 | Online or In-person | 2 hrs. | $200-$220 |
| Cambridge B2 First | 168 | In-person | 3.5 hrs. | $180-$250 |