Physical Therapy Program English Language Proficiency Requirement

English Language Proficiency Requirement

A satisfactory command of the English language is required for admission to the Physical Therapy Program. All students whose first language is not English must meet the English language proficiency requirement before starting the program if admitted. This requirement applies to all applicants, including resident aliens and citizens. Requiring valid proof of English language proficiency is an admissions requirement of the Physical Therapy Program; thus, only the program can approve exceptions.

Valid Proof of English Language Proficiency

  • Achieving the minimum required official score on the internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (ibTOEFL)
  • Completion of a bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, or professional degree at a regionally accredited college or university where English is the primary language of instruction. Individuals who are in the process of earning a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution where English is the primary language of instruction can be admitted.

Minimum Internet-Based TOEFL Test Score Requirements:

Score requirements are consistent with those established by the Oregon Board of Physical Therapy [2]  (reference OAR  848-010-001(3)(b)(B) for details) and recommended by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy for the National Physical Therapy Exam[3]. The applicant must achieve the following minimum scores for each internet-based TOEFL category (ibTOEFL). All minimum scores must be achieved on the same examination:

  • Writing: 22
  • Speaking: 24
  • Reading: 22
  • Listening: 21
  • Overall score: 89

Invalid Proof of English Language Proficiency

  • Internet-based TOEFL test score less than Pacific University’s Physical Therapy Program minimum requirement
  • Completion of an English as a Second Language (ESL) program at any school
  • Completion of English, writing, or literature courses at any college or university
  • An associate’s degree from a community college in the United States