English is the language of instruction at Harvard Extension School. If your native language is not English, you must first provide proof of English proficiency before enrolling in any Extension School course and before taking the Test of Critical Reading and Writing Skills (CRWS). At Harvard Extension School, native language is defined as the first language you learned to read, write, understand, and speak.
Meeting the Requirement
To meet the English Proficiency Requirement, you must provide either a satisfactory transcript or a qualifying test score by the English proficiency deadline.
Submit a Satisfactory Transcript
Transcripts must satisfy all the following requirements:
- Transcripts must indicate conferral of a high school diploma, a bachelor’s degree, or a graduate degree. Degrees in progress will not be considered.
- Transcripts must show at least one year of study from the school which conferred the degree.
- Transcripts must be issued by institutions at which English is the primary language of instruction.
- Submitted transcripts must be official or copies of official transcripts.
We do not accept diplomas alone as proof of English proficiency. Students whose transcripts do not satisfy all the above requirements must meet the English Proficiency Requirement with a qualifying test score instead.
Submit a Qualifying Test Score
Attain the minimum score on one of the following English proficiency tests:
| Test | Minimum Score | Cost | Approximate Time to Receive Test Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)* | 5.0 on the new 6-point scale OR 100 on the legacy 120-point scale on the Internet-based TOEFL iBT, including the TOEFL iBT Home Edition | $170 – $475 USD** | 4 – 8 days, plus delivery time if mailed |
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic* | 7.0, including the IELTS Academic Online Test | $180 – $250 USD** | 5 – 13 days, plus delivery time if mailed |
| PTE Academic (PTEA) | 70 | $117 – $315 USD** | ~5 days |
| Duolingo English Test (DET) | 125 | $70 USD | ~2 days |
*Please note we do not accept the Institutional TOEFL (also known as the TOEFL ITP), MyBest TOEFL scores, IELTS General Training scores, the IELTS Indicator test, or the IELTS One Skill Retake as proof of English proficiency.
**Cost varies based upon exam location.
Scores must be no more than two years old and verifiable with the testing agency.
Please take the test well before registration begins to ensure that your score is received by the English proficiency deadline.
How to Submit Documents
- Upload a PDF copy of your document in MyDCE using the “Document Uploader” icon located under your name at the top of your student portal
- On the “Document Upload Form,” select the document type based on what you are submitting, either “English Proficiency Transcript” or “English Proficiency Test Score.”
- You will now see your document appear under the “Previously Submitted Documents” list with the date. Additionally, you will receive an email confirmation of your submission.
Note: If your school is submitting your transcript on your behalf, please ask them to email it to Proficiency@Extension.Harvard.Edu.
Reviewing Document Status
To view the status of documents submitted via the Document Uploader, click on the “Document Uploader” icon under your name at the top of your MyDCE home page to be directed to the “Document Upload Form.” There, you can see an up-to-date view of previously submitted documents. Please read any instructions left on your document carefully.
To see if your document was approved, log in to MyDCE and head to “My Tasks.” Your task to meet the English Proficiency Requirement will be marked as “Complete” when your documents have been reviewed and you have met the requirement.
Exemptions to the Requirement
You do not need to submit proof of English proficiency if English is your native language, if you are an admitted degree candidate at Harvard College, Harvard Extension School, or at a Harvard graduate or professional school, or if you have successfully completed the Harvard Summer School Pre-College or Secondary School Program. If you fall into one of the above categories, please email Proficiency@Extension.Harvard.edu to notify us of your status. All other individuals must meet the requirement.
Registration and Deadlines
You must meet the English Proficiency Requirement prior to registering for course(s), so please submit documents before the start of registration.
You must also meet the English proficiency requirement before attempting the Test of Critical Reading and Writing Skills (CRWS), which is a prerequisite for certain courses.
All transcripts and scores must be submitted by the following deadlines:
- Fall term:
- To take the CRWS test – Submit by Tuesday, August 4, 2026
- To register for classes – Submit by Monday, August 17, 2026
- January session:
- To take the CRWS test – Submit by Tuesday, November 24, 2026
- To register for classes – Submit by Thursday, December 14, 2026
- Spring term:
- To take the CRWS test – Submit by Tuesday, December 22, 2026
- To register for classes – Tuesday, January 12, 2027
Documents submitted after these dates are not guaranteed a review in time for course registration for that term. Those documents would be considered for the following term.
Accurate Representation
Honesty in all communications, including self-representation of native language, is a requirement of student enrollment. The submission of fraudulent information is subject to review by the Administrative Board and may be grounds for disciplinary action. See Student Conduct for more information.
Questions?
Please contact Enrollment Services at (617) 495-4024 or email Enrollment Requirements at Proficiency@Extension.Harvard.edu.
