MSU English Language Test (MSUELT)

The Michigan State University English Language Test (MSUELT) is a proficiency test used for two main purposes:

• placing students in a level of study at MSU’s English Language Center
• determining whether a student has met MSU’s basic English-language requirement. For more information about this requirement, see MSU Admissions’ International Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Who may take the MSUELT?

• A student with provisional admission to MSU (except students in the ELC’s EAP classes: AAE 220, 221, 222, and 223).
• A prospective MSU student (someone hoping to be admitted) whose application is being processed by the MSU Office Admissions.
• A student in a special program that has made arrangements with the ELC for testing. Check with your program director to find out if your program has made such arrangements.
• A prospective Lifelong Education student.
• Other students who have special permission from the ELC.

If you are not sure of your status, please check with your academic adviser.

When is it given?

The MSUELT is offered near the beginning of each semester and once after each semester’s ELC classes have ended.

How much does it cost?

The cost for the test is $100.00 per student, payable when the student signs up for the test. This fee is waived (NOT charged) for students who have provisional admission to MSU. It is also waived for some special-program students who are studying at 093 or 094 in ELC classes.

How do I sign up?

For information about signing up for the MSUELT, contact the English Language Center’s main office.

What do MSUELT questions look like?

Here are some sample MSUELT questions.

How will my essay be scored?

Here is the MSUELT scoring rubric.

How are MSUELT scores used for placement into English classes?

The results of the initial MSUELT will place students into classes for a full semester as indicated in this flowchart. (Note: some graduate departments have higher requirements).Placement in subsequent semesters will be based primarily on class performance. Students enrolling in short courses (less than a full semester) or arriving late for a semester will be placed one level lower than indicated in this chart, at the discretion of the ELC.

Graduate students: for additional information on English language requirements, please refer to this page.

*MSU reserves the right to modify placement requirements.

Upcoming Test Dates:

January 10, 2025

April 25, 2025

Not all tests dates are open to all students. 

For more information and the location of the MSUELT, please contact the ELC.
All test-takers will be notified of the test locations when they sign up for the test.