The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia or KSA, also referred to as Saudi Arabia, is a country in West Asia. The third-largest immigrant population in the world resides in Saudi Arabia. The official tongue of the Saudi Arabian Kingdom is Arabic. But given that the nation has a population of over 33 million and that younger people are coming to study in various disciplines, it is only natural that several dialects represent the country’s regional variety and diversity.
Most universities in Saudi Arabia offer courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels in English since it is regarded as an international language and is widely used in the academic world. To study in Saudi Arabia, international students must meet certain language requirements.
Let’s take a closer look at it below!
Language Tests in Saudi Arabia for International Students
Depending on the programs students are applying for, international students must meet requirements in both Arabic and English.
Arabic Language Tests Needed for International Students
The Arabic Language Proficiency Test is required for students from countries other than Saudi Arabia who desire to demonstrate their ability to communicate in Arabic in everyday situations. ALPT serves as the benchmark for estimating Arabic competence among students around the world. The exam assesses hearing comprehension, reading comprehension, reading comprehension structure, writing structure, and speaking.
This Arabic proficiency test is divided into five sections: the first three are multiple-choice questions; the fourth is an open-ended question; and the fifth is led by an Arabic teacher. A distinct language competence is evaluated in each section. Depending on how many questions are necessary to properly evaluate student ability, the test’s duration varies.
English Language Tests for International Students
All applicants who are interested in English-language programs must submit proof of their language skills. For many of these students, admission to a Saudi Arabian university requires passing an appropriate English language test. The following certificates are readily accepted by the majority of Saudi universities:
1. IELTS – International English Language Testing System
If a student plans to travel to Saudi Arabia for additional study, they must take an English Proficiency Test to prove their English language ability. One popular approach to show this competence is through the IELTS test, which assesses proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. This same test also has applications in Saudi Arabia to welcome international students. The minimum score required in Saudi Arabia varies by curriculum and is around 6. The certificate has validity for two years. IELTS is one of many English language competence exams that many Saudi universities, such as Prince Sultan University, King Saud University, Arab Open University, and others, require for admission.
2. TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language
The Test of English as a Foreign Language is an independent standardized exam used to evaluate the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers contemplating immigration, enrolling in university programs abroad, and other opportunities. You can register for the exam via phone, email, or the ETS website. Saudi Arabia expects a TOEFL iBT minimum score of 70 and 79.
For example, Prince Sultan University has set a minimum iBT score criteria of 70 for applicants from abroad to apply for master’s courses. Because the TOEFL is approved by the majority of Saudi Arabian universities, if you are willing to take any other exams instead of the IELTS, you should do so.
3. Duolingo
International students can also consider the Duolingo English Test to meet English proficiency standards. It evaluates reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills and is also equivalent to TOEFL and the IELTS. Furthermore, it’s comparatively less expensive than other tests, and therefore, many students prefer to proceed with the Duolingo Test.
The duration for the Duolingo English Test is 60 minutes and within 2-3 days results are available for the candidates. It costs around $60 and stays valid for 2 years. Many institutes around the world prefer the other two exams more than the Duolingo English Test.
Saudi Arabia has made significant investments in its educational institutions and in bringing international students to its halls despite previously not being an obvious study destination. As a result, studying in Saudi Arabia will be instructive and enriching for anyone seeking a distinctive experience.
Generally, Universities in Saudi Arabia validate any recognized language test with a B2 or higher result. Despite being somewhat popular during the COVID era, very few Saudi Arabian universities currently permit the use of Duolingo. To start again somewhere new in Saudi Arabia, choose your preferred exam.
We hope that this article on language tests needed in Saudi Arabia for international students was helpful. To know more information like this, check out the KSA Study Guide and Available Programs for International Students!
