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Hoʻokele
Admissions

English Test Requirements

International students whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency by taking one of the approved English proficiency tests listed below.

During each application period, students have the opportunity to take the TOEFL and IELTS tests multiple times. However, the ELAT test can only be taken once per application period. Keep in mind that the scores for the TOEFL and IELTS tests are valid for two years, while the ELAT test score is only valid for one year after the test.

Based on the English test results, students may be required to complete the EIL program at BYU–Hawaii, which may take one to three semesters.

  • BYU–Hawaii requires a minimum score in each English language skill area to pass the ELAT.

    Reading - score of 10 or more
    Writing - score of 4 or more
    Listening - score of 13 or more
    Speaking - score of 7 or more

    The ELAT is a free, online English test exclusively for BYU–Hawaii applicants. Testing dates will be available before each semester's application deadline dates. To register for the ELAT, please email admissions@byuh.edu.

  • BYU–Hawaii requires a minimum composite score of 66 on the IBT (Internet-based Test) with a minimum score of 17 on reading and writing and 16 on listening and speaking.

    BYU–Hawaii does NOT accept the TOEFL PBT (paper-based test) or ITP (Institutional TOEFL). To find out the dates, locations, and cost of TOEFL tests, contact TOEFL.

  • BYU–Hawaii requires a minimum score of 6.0 with a minimum sub-score of 5.5 or higher.

    To find out the dates, locations, and cost of IELTS tests, contact IELTS.

  • Beginning with the winter 2024 application, BYU–Hawaii will no longer accept the Michigan, SLEP, EIKEN, and PTE test scores.

  • At the present time, EnglishConnect 3 (EC3) is not an approved English proficiency test for admission to BYU–Hawaii. However, we highly recommend that you enroll in EC3 to prepare for the ELAT.

    To join EnglishConnect please go to englishconnect.org.

    Read more about the BYU–Hawaii BYU-Pathway Worldwide partnership.

Frequently Asked Questions

    • Before you take the ELAT, you must take the practice tests and view the instructional videos.
      Only those who are registered for the ELAT will have access to these resources.
    • EnglishConnect 3 provided through BYU-Pathway Worldwide is an excellent preparation course.
    • Test takers must have a computer with a microphone and camera, a stable internet connection, and a quiet room.
    • Applicants will be sent an email with the test dates for all four tests.
    • Test dates will be scheduled about one month before the application deadline date.
    • The ELAT will be given in four parts:
      • READING test (60 minutes)
      • WRITING test (35 minutes)
      • LISTENING test (50 minutes)
      • SPEAKING test (35 minutes)
    • This depends on how well you progress through the tests.
    • If you do not pass the first test, then you will not be able to take any of the other tests.
    • You need to pass each test to progress to the next test.
      • The first test is the Reading Test. If you score a 10 or more, you will be allowed to take the Listening Test.
      • The second test is the Listening Test. If you score 13 or more then you will be allowed to take the Writing and Speaking test.
        • If you do not score 13 or more, then you will not be able to take the other tests.
      • The third test is the Writing Test. The Writing Test will be rated, and you will receive your score within two weeks of your test date.
      • The fourth test is the Speaking Test. The Speaking Test will be rated, and you will receive your score within two weeks of your test date.
    • If you pass each test, then yes, you can take all tests in one day.
    • Yes, you must pass all four tests with a minimum score determining your English Proficiency for your BYU–Hawaii application.
      • BYU–Hawaii requires a minimum score in each English language skill area to pass the ELAT.
        • Reading - score of 10 or more
        • Writing - score of 4 or more
        • Listening - score of 13 or more
        • Speaking - score of 7 or more
    • You will see your reading and listening scores as soon as you complete the test. You will receive your writing and speaking scores within two weeks of your testing date.
    • You have the option of purchasing the TOEFL and/or IELTS tests.
    • We highly recommend that you enroll in EnglishConnect 3 as a preparation course for the ELAT.
    • The ELAT can only be taken once per application period.
    • Contact your local church leadership for assistance.
    • Or contact your nearest Welfare & Self-Reliance Service Center for assistance.