English Competency / TOEFL
Competency in the english language is required to study at MB Biblical Seminary. English language competency for students whose first language is not English will be gauged by their score on the TOEFL. The Admissions Committee may require applicants from North America whose first language is not English to also take the TOEFL to show competency.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
MB Biblical Seminary has determined competency to be indicated by a score of 79 on the internet based test (iBT). Scores for the computer based test (CBT) will continue to be accepted. The written test (PBT) requires a score of 550. This version will continue to be administered in locations where there is not an internet based test. The internet based test (iBT) has become the primary test and requires a score of 79 for passing. Applicants who achieve scores of 500-549 (written), 173-212 (computer), or 68-78 (internet) may be admitted to MB Biblical Seminary on probation pending language competency. While on probation the student is required to participate in additional study of the English language at the student’s own expense and the tutoring program for any courses at MB Biblical Seminary. The student must continue to take the TOEFL each semester until a score of 550 (written) or 79 (internet) is achieved. This requirement will be waived if after completion of 12 units a 3.0 cumulative GPA is achieved.
International Student Tutoring Program
Students who score below 550 on their TOEFL must participate in the International Student Tutoring Program. It is optional for others. The purpose of this program is to help students whose first language is not English improve the quality of their written assignments. The student will give a hard copy of their written work to their tutor. The tutor will note sentences that are unclear, mistakes, and changes that need to be made. The tutor and the student will meet to go over the notes made by the tutor.
The seminary will pay the tutor minimum wage, and the student will pay the tutor an additional $2.50 an hour. The tutor should fill out a W-4 and I-9 form (obtain from the business office) and return to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in the Administration building.
If possible it is helpful if the tutor knows the student’s first language. The student may propose a tutor, or the seminary will assist the student in finding a tutor.