Frequently Asked Questions |
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- I want to apply to a graduate program at Duke. Can you help me?
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students? Do I need to submit TOEFL scores?
- I've been admitted to a graduate program. Do I need to take another test when I arrive at Duke?
- Is everyone required to take these exams?
- I have a very high TOEFL (or IELTS) score. Can I be exempted from the exams?
- I have a master’s degree from a U.S. university. Can I be exempted from the exams?
- How do I find out when and where the exams are given?
- Do I need to pre-register for these exams?
- What do I need to bring to the exams?
- How and when will I get the results of the exam?
- What happens if I am required to take EIS classes?
- How many classes will I have to take?
Q. I want to apply to a graduate program at Duke. Can you help me?
A. The EIS program does not process applications directly, so you should apply directly to the department in which you want to pursue a graduate degree. Our program's relationship with you begins with your admission. For information on requirements for applying to a graduate program and a link to the electronic application, please go to the Graduate School Admissions Page. Please note that the Graduate School accepts only electronic applications.
Q. What are the English language requirements for international students? Do I need to submit TOEFL scores?
A. Duke accepts both TOEFL or IELTS scores, but IELTS is preferred. More specific information about this requirement can be found at the Graduate School website.
Q. I've been admitted to a graduate program. Do I need to take another test when I arrive at Duke?
A. Yes, the Graduate School requires you to take English writing and speaking exams administered by the EIS Program when you arrive. These tests are typically given during Orientation Week for fall matriculates and in the week before classes begin for spring matriculates. These tests are used to place students appropriately into our classes.
Q. Is everyone required to take these exams?
A. If your first language is not English and you are in a Ph.D., M.A., M.S., M.F.*, M.E.M.*, M.P.P., or M.A.T. program, you must take the exams. If you are a non-degree student or not pursuing one of these degrees, you can be exempted from the exams. However, if you are interested in taking EIS courses, you should take the exams so that we can advise you which classes would be best for you. Of course in this case, taking the exams does not obligate you to take classes.
* This applies to the Master of Forestry and Master of Environmental Management programs in the Nicholas School of the Environment and Earth Sciences.
Q. I have a very high TOEFL (or IELTS) score. Can I be exempted from the exams?
A. Your TOEFL score has no effect on the exam requirement. However, you are exempt from the exam if you are a non-degree student.
Q. I have a master’s degree from a U.S. university. Can I be exempted from the exams?
A. No, the Graduate School does not grant exemptions for master’s degrees from English-speaking universities. If your undergraduate degree is from an institution in an English-speaking country, you may be eligible for exemption. If you think this applies to you, please contact us.
Q. How do I find out when and where the exams are given?
A. You will receive this information from your department and it will also be posted here. You will also get all necessary information about the exam and be able to ask questions at the Graduate School orientation in the week before classes begin.
Q. Do I need to pre-register for these exams?
A. Yes, you do need to pre-register for both the oral and written exams because the number of seats is limited. You will be able to register online here approximately one month before the exams.
Q. What do I need to bring to the exams?
A. Bring picture ID (Duke ID or passport) and pens or pencils.
Q. How and when will I get the results of the exam?
A. Your exam results will be available here before classes begin. Exam results are typically available two days after the exams.
Q. What happens if I am required to take EIS classes?
A. Students with EIS course requirements are required to start these required classes during their first year of study. You can register for EIS classes in the same way you register for your other classes. The EIS classes carry three or four credits and are graded on the same basis as all Graduate School classes.
Q. How many classes will I have to take?
A. How many classes you will need to take depends on your exam results and your degree program. Your exam results will list your specific course requirements.