U of MN English language proficiency policy
English testing flowcharts for students (pdf)
SETTA (Spoken English Test for TAs)
Look up individual English language proficiency ratings (faculty and staff only)
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The University of Minnesota requires high standards of English proficiency for nonnative English speaking students who are appointed to teaching assistant and instructor positions. Spoken proficiency is assessed in one of three ways:
Scores on these assessments are converted into numerical English Language Proficiency (ELP) ratings which correspond to eligibility for various teaching responsibilities (i.e., higher proficiency corresponds with more demanding instructional responsibilities.) For ELP ratings lower than 1, one to three semesters of ITA Program coursework is required.
If you are a student, these flowcharts (pdf) will guide your testing decisions.
| ELP Rating | Instructional Responsibilities Allowed | How to Achieve This ELP Rating |
|---|---|---|
| ELP rating 1 | Eligible for all instructional responsibilities. No coursework required. | 27-30 on ibTOEFL speaking ELP 1 on SETTA Pass GRAD 5105 final exam |
| ELP rating 2 or 3* | Eligible for all instructional responsibilities. GRAD 5105 required if teaching (e.g., a class, lab, recitation, discussion, etc.) No coursework required if grading, tutoring, holding office hours, or proctoring. | 23-26 on ibTOEFL speaking ELP 2 on SETTA Pass GRAD 5102 final exam |
| ELP rating 4 | Eligible only to tutor, hold office hours, grade, proctor. Not eligible to teach. GRAD 5102 is required. | 18-22 on ibTOEFL speaking ELP 4 on SETTA Pass Foundations final exam |
| ELP rating 5 | Not eligible for any TA position. Foundations course is required. | <18 on ibTOEFL speaking ELP 5 on SETTA |
* ELP 3 is being phased out
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