Hamilton College requires proof of English proficiency for non-native English speaking students. This proficiency can be demonstrated by submitting the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language iBT (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or Duolingo English Test (DET). While Hamilton does not have a specific score requirement for these English-proficiency exams, we recommend a minimum score of 100 on the Internet-based TOEFL exam, an overall band score of 7.0 for the IELTS, or a score of 120 on the DET for applicants to be competitive for admission.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, and to ensure that students are not penalized by a lack of available testing dates or opportunities, Hamilton has temporarily increased our acceptable English proficiency testing opportunities. For international students applying for entry in 2021-22, Hamilton will also accept the IELTS Indicator test or the TOEFL Home Edition.

Official scores must be submitted to complete your application, and self-reported scores will not fulfill our requirement. Because Hamilton provides our applicants with many in person and virtual testing options to meet our English Language Proficiency requirement, this requirement will not be waived for non-Native English speakers.

For the 2020-21 application cycle, in light of the unprecedented challenges facing our applicants, Hamilton has temporarily suspended our standardized testing requirement.