Testing

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE), which is administered by ETS, is a computer-based test designed to measure quantitative, analytical, and language abilities. Your specific graduate program website will indicate their GRE requirements. There are a number of businesses that offer GRE test preparation materials. Some of them offer free practice tests and downloadable software for studying, including ETS. They also offer online and live courses with a wide range in pricing. Be sure to take advantage of all the free materials before making an investment in classes.

In addition, ETS offers a GRE Fee Reduction Program for individuals who can demonstrate financial need. Voucher users pay 50% of the regular test fee.

To qualify for fellowships, many graduate programs require that you take the GRE by the October or December before your fall admission. Subject tests are offered on specific dates, but dates fill up quickly, so plan ahead. ETS, the administrator of the GRE, offers detailed information on its website.

ETS website

Khan Academy Instructional Videos

Effective with students admitted for fall 2000 and thereafter, to gain admission, all graduate and professional applicants to IU Indianapolis whose native language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in English as a second language. This policy thus applies to students enrolling in all graduate level programs including graduate certificate programs. Applicants who hold a bachelor's degree or a graduate degree from an accredited university in the U.S. or an officially recognized university in a country where English is the predominant native language will be deemed proficient. Applicants from US territories and Puerto Rico for whom English is not their native language, will need to successfully complete the campus English for Academic Purpose (EAP) examination. All other students must perform satisfactorily on a standardized test of proficiency in English as a second language that measures students' preparedness for academic study.

This policy is a MINIMUM standard for the campus. This policy does not preclude any department or school from setting a higher standard. For example, some departments or schools may choose to require that all non- native speakers of English will take the EAP Placement Exam regardless of previous standardized test scores or education.

Applicants from non-English speaking countries must prove English proficiency and may be required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination in order to qualify for graduate study at IU Indianapolis; many graduate programs require a score significantly higher than the minimum campus standard. Be sure to verify English proficiency requirements with your program of interest before selecting an alternative to the TOEFL.  The Office for International Affairs offers further information on English proficiency requirements on its website.

An alternative testing system for English language skills is the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The Office for International Affairs offers further information on English proficiency requirements on its website.

By University policy, most graduate students who are non-native speakers of English are required to take the EAP Placement Test prior to registering for classes, before the start of their first semester on campus, even if they completed the TOEFL test. Students’ letter of admission from the Office of International Affairs will indicate if they are required to take this test.

Some students who are permanent residents, political asylees, or undocumented without a U.S. degree are strongly encouraged to take the EAP Placement test. Graduate students in this category should speak to their advisor or the EAP Program about enrolling into an EAP course. Both undergraduate and graduate students may elect to take EAP courses even if they are not required to.  

Because the EAP Placement Test is a placement test used to accurately determine English language skill level, students do not need to "prepare" for it. The scores are used to assign EAP classes that best meet students’ academic needs that will provide favorable English experiences necessary for a successful career at IU Indianapolis and beyond.

The courses prescribed based on the students’ results on the EAP Placement Test are required. Students who have not completed their EAP requirements will not be able to graduate.

The minimum placement is no course below G513 or G520 for any student who will enroll on an F-1 or J-1 visa.

NOTE for graduate students and advisers: Graduate students who are being considered for a teaching role (tutor, lab assistant, teaching assistant, course instructor) are also required by university policy to take the SPEAK test and complete any required supplemental EAP courses recommended based on that test. The Graduate Office monitors compliance with the campus policy.

The Department of English lists information such as test dates, testing locations, registration instructions, and more. EAP students also can take advantage of the ESL Tutoring Center. For questions about dates and times for the current semester, please email esltutor@iu.edu.

The Program for Intensive English (PIE) at IU Indianapolis provides non-native English speakers with language courses to improve their academic English skills. Once a student successfully completes Level 7 in the PIE, they will meet the minimum IU Indianapolis English proficiency requirement. Be sure to verify English proficiency requirements with your program of interest to ensure they accept the PIE, and at what level.

Pearson Test of English - Academic (PTEA) minimum = 54.

Successful completion of ELS Language Center's Level 112.

Other objective tests of EAP proficiency and minimum scores as agreed upon by the English for Academic Purposes Program and the Office of International Affairs.

Graduate students who are being considered for a teaching role (tutor, lab assistant, teaching assistant, course instructor) are also required by university policy to take the SPEAK test and complete any required supplemental EAP courses recommended based on that test. The Graduate School monitors compliance with the campus policy. Students should connect with their Graduate Program advisor for more information on completing the SPEAK test.

The ESL Tutoring Center serves students enrolled in EAP and PIE classes. EAP students please contact esltutor@iu.edu for hours of operation and other information. PIE students, please contact PIE at inpie@iu.edu or 317-274-4743.