The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) 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. 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.

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.

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 IUPUI; 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).

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 IUPUI 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.

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@iupui.edu.

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 Program for Intensive English (PIE) at IUPUI provides non-native English speakers with educational programming to improve their English language skills. Once a student successfully completes Level 7 in the PIE, they will meet the minimum IUPUI 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.

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