English as a Second Language
Study English in Madison

International Degree Student FAQs

  • Who can take Academic ESL classes?
    1. Any non-native English speaker who has been admitted to an undergraduate or graduate degree program at the University may take ESL courses.
    2. Special or non-degree students may also enroll in courses when space is available.
  • If I'm admitted to a University undergraduate degree program, will I have to take an ESL course?

    Most new and transfer undergraduate students are required to take the MSN-ESLAT and enroll in the recommended ESL courses until they have completed ESL 118. ESL 118 fulfills the Comm A communication requirement for undergraduate students. See Courses for further details.

  • If I'm admitted to a graduate degree University program, and I have a good TOEFL score, do I need to take an ESL course?

    If your TOEFL score is below 92 on the IBT or 580 on the paper-based TOEFL, you will have to take the Madison ESL Assessment Test (MSN-ESLAT) when you arrive, and then enroll in the recommended ESL course your first semester. Your department may require the MSN-ESLAT and the recommended ESL course regardless of your TOEFL score. See Courses for further details.

    For more info go to:  https://grad.wisc.edu/apply/

  • Do I have to take a placement test?

    Undergraduate students who are required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores for purposes of admission must take the MSN-ESLAT placement test. Graduate students will be told in their admission letter whether or not they need to take the MSN-ESLAT placement test.  Based on the test results, students will be assigned to the most appropriate ESL course(s). Students with strong writing skills may be exempted from ESL courses.

    Graduate students may enroll in 300 level ESL courses without taking the MSN-ESLAT.

    Undergraduate, Graduate and Special students who elect to enroll in an ESL course must take the MSN-ESLAT for courses ESL 114-118.

  • What credits will I earn for my ESL courses?

    Most ESL courses are 3-credits. Undergraduates receive credit for all ESL courses.  ESL courses do not count toward the degree for graduate students. See Courses for further details.