Are you an international applicant dreaming of Harvard Business School or Harvard Kennedy School? One of the most important aspects of your application might be proving your English language proficiency. Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the various English language tests and requirements.
At The Art of Applying®, we’ve helped countless Wild Cards – ambitious professionals who don’t fit the traditional mold – secure spots at elite institutions like Harvard. Let’s break down everything you need to know about English language requirements to make your application journey smoother.
🎯 Quick Overview: What You Need to Know
Before diving deep, here’s the essential information:
- You need to demonstrate English proficiency unless your entire undergraduate degree was in English
- Different schools accept different tests
- Meeting the minimum requirements is more important than achieving ultra-high scores
- Start preparing early to give yourself plenty of time
Let’s explore your options!
IELTS Academic: The International Standard
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic is widely accepted and tests four key areas:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) Requirements:
- Minimum overall band score: 7.0
- Recommended minimum per section: 7.0
- Only the Academic version is accepted
Harvard Business School (HBS) Requirements:
- Minimum recommended score: 7.5 overall
- No specific section minimums mentioned
TOEFL IBT: The Popular Choice
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Internet-Based Test is another excellent option. Both HKS and HBS accept this test, but with different requirements.
HKS Requirements:
- Minimum total score: 100
- Recommended minimum per section: 25
- Regular TOEFL IBT only (no MyBest scores)
HBS Requirements:
- Minimum recommended score: 109
- No specific section minimums mentioned
- Regular TOEFL IBT only (no MyBest scores)
PTE Academic: The Computer-Based Alternative
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic offers a computer-based testing experience. While it’s gaining popularity, note that it’s not accepted by all programs.
- HBS minimum recommended score: 75
- Not mentioned by HKS
- Accepted by other top schools like Stanford (minimum 68)
Cambridge English: The British Option
Cambridge English tests, including C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency, are accepted by some programs:
HKS Requirements:
- Minimum score: 185 on C1 or C2
- Recommended minimum per section: 185
Note: Not mentioned by HBS as of Summer 2023
Duolingo English Test: The New Kid on the Block
- Only mentioned by HBS
- Not accepted by HKS or Stanford GSB
- Consider this option only if accepted by all your target schools
Special Circumstances: When You Might Be Exempt
Good news! You might not need to take an English test if:
- Your entire undergraduate degree was in English
- You’ll need to provide proof from your university
Important: You still need to take a test if:
- You transferred from a non-English speaking institution
- Your advanced degrees (Master’s/PhD) were in English
- Only your graduate degree was in English
Strategic Advice: Choosing Your Test
As Wild Cards applying to top programs, you want to make strategic decisions. Here’s our advice:
1. If applying to both HKS and HBS:
- Focus on TOEFL IBT or IELTS Academic
- These are widely accepted and have clear requirements
2. When deciding between tests:
- Consider your comfort with test formats
- Check test availability in your area
- Take practice tests to gauge your potential performance
Pro Tips for Success
🎯 Focus on Meeting Minimums
Unlike the GMAT or GRE, you don’t need to aim for extraordinarily high scores. Your goal should be to:
- Meet or slightly exceed the minimum requirements
- Demonstrate clear English proficiency
- Check this requirement box confidently
⏰ Time Management
Start your preparation early to:
- Allow for multiple test dates if needed
- Reduce stress during application season
- Focus on other crucial application components
💡 Making Your Decision
Consider these factors when choosing your test:
- Which test format matches your strengths?
- Are testing centers easily accessible?
- Which test is accepted by all your target schools?
- What are your practice test scores indicating?
Common Questions from Our Clients
Q: Should I take multiple tests to show my proficiency?
A: Not necessary! Focus on excelling in one test that meets all your schools’ requirements.
Q: What if I’m slightly below the minimum?
A: While it’s possible to be admitted with slightly lower scores, we recommend meeting the minimums to be competitive.
Q: Does a higher score improve my chances?
A: Unlike other standardized tests, scoring well above the minimum doesn’t significantly enhance your application.
The Art of Applying® Perspective
As experts in helping ambitious professionals get into top graduate programs, we’ve seen countless successful applications. Here’s what we’ve learned:
- English proficiency tests are a threshold requirement
- Focus your energy on meeting the minimums confidently
- Put more effort into other aspects of your application that tell your unique story
- Don’t let this requirement become a major source of stress
Next Steps in Your Application Journey
- Determine which test aligns best with your target schools
- Schedule your test with plenty of time before applications are due
- Practice consistently but don’t over-prepare
- Once you meet the minimum, move on to other application components
Remember: At The Art of Applying®, we believe in taking a holistic approach to your graduate school applications. While English proficiency is important, it’s just one piece of your compelling story.
Need More Support?
We’re here to help you navigate every aspect of your graduate school application journey. Whether you’re deciding between schools, planning your application timeline, or looking for comprehensive application support, our team of experienced consultants can help.
Ready to take the next step? Book a Quick Call with our team to discuss your graduate school goals and learn how we can help you achieve them.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let English language requirements become a roadblock in your graduate school journey. With clear understanding, strategic preparation, and the right support, you can confidently meet this requirement and focus on showcasing what makes you a unique and valuable addition to your dream program.
Remember, as a Wild Card applicant, your strength lies in your unique perspective and experiences. The English proficiency requirement is simply a checkbox to mark off on your way to achieving your graduate school dreams.
Ready to begin your graduate school application journey? Let’s connect and create a strategy that works for you. Book your Quick Call today and let’s make your graduate school dreams a reality!
Ready to take the next step? Book a Quick Call with our expert team to discuss your graduate school goals and create a winning application strategy.
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