English Language Proficiency

Applicants whose primary language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency. English language proficiency is required for admission to all programs of study at Johnson & Wales University, regardless of country of citizenship or residency. Students who do not provide proof of English proficiency will be enrolled in the English as a Second Language (ESL) program and registered for ESL classes prior to beginning regular degree studies.

Johnson & Wales University’s English as a Second Language (ESL) program allows students to focus on the areas where they need the most improvement. 

English Language Placement testing for new ESL students will be given before the beginning of each term. JWU uses the students’ scores from this testing to place students into the appropriate level of ESL.

Providence and North Miami students admitted to graduate programs in the College of Business who meet the English Proficiency Requirements but whose undergraduate degree was not earned at a American university or at a university located in a country in which the official language is English will be required to take a communications skills assessment. A list of those countries may be found online. Graduate students exiting the English as a Second Language Program at Johnson & Wales University may also be required to take a writing assessment.