English is the language of instruction at Harvard Summer School. If your native language is not English, you must first provide proof of English proficiency before enrolling in any Summer School course and before taking the Test of Critical Reading and Writing Skills (CRWS).
Secondary School and Pre-College Program Applicants
For instructions on meeting this requirement, see Secondary School Program Admissions and Pre-College Program Admissions. The information on this page applies only to adult or college students.
Adult or College Students Taking Courses In a Seven- Four- or Three-Week Session
To meet the English proficiency requirement for registration, you must provide either a satisfactory transcript or a qualifying test score English proficiency deadline:
Submitting a Satisfactory Transcript:
Submit an official transcript, or a copy of an official transcript, showing completion of a high school diploma, an undergraduate degree (bachelor’s), or a graduate degree (master’s or PhD) at a school, college, or university at which English is the primary language of instruction.
Transcript requirements:
- Transcripts must indicate completion of high school, a three- or four-year bachelor’s degree, or a graduate degree (master’s or PhD). Degrees in progress will not be considered.
- Transcripts must show at least one year of study and graduation from an institution where English is the primary language of instruction
We do not accept diplomas alone as proof of English proficiency. Students who do not have a satisfactory transcript must meet the English proficiency requirement with a qualifying test score instead.
Submitting a Qualifying Test Score:
Provide the minimum approved score on one of the following English proficiency tests.
| Test | Minimum Approved Score | Cost | Approximate Time to Receive Test Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)* | 100 on the Internet-based TOEFL iBT, including the TOEFL iBT Home Edition | $157–360 USD** | 4–8 days, plus delivery time if mailed |
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic* | 7.0, including the IELTS Academic Online Test | $180–250 USD** | 5–13 days, plus delivery time if mailed |
| PTE Academic (PTEA) | 70 | $117–315 USD** | ~5 days |
| Duolingo English Test (DET) | 125 | $65 USD | ~2 days |
*Please note we do not accept the Institutional TOEFL (also known as the TOEFL ITP), MyBest TOEFL scores, IELTS General Training scores, the IELTS Indicator test, or the IELTS One Skill Retake as proof of English proficiency.
**Cost varies based upon exam location.
We suggest you take the test well before registration begins to ensure that your score is received by the English proficiency deadline.
Scores must be no more than two years old and verifiable with the testing agency.
Submission of Documents
Submission of Transcripts
- Upload PDF copies of your transcripts in MyDCE using the “Document Uploader” icon located under your name at the top of your student portal.
- When uploading multiple transcripts, please combine PDFs and submit them together rather than submitting multiple PDFs.
- On the “Document Upload Form,” select “English Proficiency Transcript,” attach your document from your computer and click the “Submit” button. You will now see your document appear under the “Previously Submitted Documents” list with the date. Additionally, you will receive an email confirmation verifying your submission.
- Alternatively, have your school send your official transcripts to Proficiency@Summer.Harvard.Edu
Submission of Test Scores
- Upload a PDF copy of your score report in MyDCE using the “Document Uploader” icon located under your name at the top of your student portal.
- On the “Document Upload Form,” select “English Proficiency Test Score,” attach your document from your computer and click the “Submit” button. You will now see your document appear under the “Previously Submitted Documents” list with the date. Additionally, you will receive an email confirmation verifying your submission.
Reviewing Document Status
To view the status of documents submitted via the Document Uploader, click on the “Document Uploader” icon under your name at the top of your MyDCE home page to be directed to the “Document Upload Form.” There you can see an up-to-date view of previously submitted documents. Please read any instructions left on your document carefully.
To see if we’ve approved your official transcript or official score from a testing agency, log in to MyDCE and head to “My Tasks.” Your task to meet the English proficiency requirement will be marked as “Complete” when your documents have been reviewed and you have met the requirement.
Exceptions to the requirement
You do not need to submit proof of English proficiency if English is your native language, if you are an admitted degree candidate at Harvard College, Harvard Extension School, or at a Harvard graduate or professional school, or if you have successfully completed the Harvard Summer School Pre-College or Secondary School Program. If you fall into one of the above categories, please email Proficiency@Summer.Harvard.Edu to notify us of your status. All other individuals must meet the requirement.
Registration and Deadlines
You must meet the English proficiency requirement prior to registering for course(s). Therefore, we encourage you to submit documents before to the start of registration.
If your native language is not English, you must first meet the English proficiency requirement before you can take the test. Students who need to take the Test of Critical Reading and Writing Skills (CRWS) must submit documentation for the English proficiency requirement no later than Thursday, May 22, 2025, to ensure a timely review by staff.
International students seeking an I-20 for their visa application: All documents you to meet the English proficiency requirement must be submitted by Monday, April 14, 2025, to ensure you have enough time to meet your registration deadline. Because the English proficiency requirement must be met first before you can register for courses, you are strongly encouraged to submit your English Proficiency documentation well in advance of these deadlines (and preferably prior to Monday, March 3, 2025, when course registration opens) to ensure your ability to register in your desired courses. Please allow 5 business days for submitted documents to be reviewed.
All other students: All transcripts and scores must be submitted by Tuesday, June 10, 2025. Please allow time for submitted documents to be reviewed after submitting.
Accurate Representation
Honesty in all communications, including self-representation of native language is a requirement of student enrollment. Submission of fraudulent information is subject to review by the Administrative Board and may be grounds for disciplinary action. See Student Conduct for more information.
English Proficiency For Other Harvard Schools
Meeting the Summer School English proficiency requirement does not meet the requirement for other Harvard schools or programs, with the exception of Harvard Extension School.
Considering An Extension School Degree Program?
Meeting the English proficiency requirement does not guarantee admission eligibility. Refer to Degree Program Admissions for more information.
Questions?
Please contact Enrollment Services at (617) 495-4024 or email Proficiency@Summer.Harvard.Edu.