The VIU English placement test is a general proficiency test that includes the following components:

• an essay writing task (45 minutes)
• a computer-based test of grammar, vocabulary, and reading skills (2 hours)
• an interview (15-20 minutes)

Placement testing for ESL students

If you are an international student who came to VIU to study English, then you must take our placement test to determine which level of ESL courses is right for you. It takes one semester of full-time study to complete one level. Successful completion of the final (college-preparatory) ESL level serves as evidence of sufficient English proficiency for entering our academic programs.

Placement testing for other international students

International students who can submit one of the test scores listed below do NOT have to take our placement test. Please keep in mind that these test scores must be no more that two years old.

• TOEFL: 550 (PBT), 213 (CBT), 80 (IBT)
• SAT II: English 870
• IELTS: Overall band 6 (Academic)
• TOEIC: 750

If you do not have one of the scores listed above, you MUST take our placement test.

• If you pass our placement test with an academic-level score, you will be allowed to register for academic classes.
• If you fail our placement test, you will have to complete our ESL program before starting your academic studies. The length of the ESL studies depends on the initial placement level. It takes one semester of full-time study to complete one level. Successful completion of the final (college-preparatory) ESL level serves as evidence of sufficient English proficiency for entering our academic programs.