Yenching English Test Requirements (2026)

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Yenching Academy at Peking University requires English proficiency tests for admission. Accepted tests include TOEFL iBT (from January 2026), IELTS Academic, or Cambridge C1 Advanced. Minimum scores are TOEFL 100 (legacy) or 4.5 (CEFR), IELTS 7.0, or C1 Advanced 180. The new 90-minute TOEFL iBT, launched January 21, 2026, features multistage adaptive sections and a 1-6 CEFR scale.

Detailed Requirements

Accepted Tests

Yenching Academy accepts three major English proficiency tests:

1. TOEFL iBT (from January 2026): The new 90-minute test with multistage adaptive Reading & Listening sections, Integrated Writing, and Academic Discussion Writing. Scores are reported on a 1-6 CEFR scale, with legacy 0-120 scores during the transition period.
2. IELTS Academic: The standard academic version of IELTS, scored on a 1-9 band scale.
3. Cambridge C1 Advanced: A high-level English test with a score range of 120-210.

Minimum Score Requirements

• TOEFL iBT (legacy): 100 (or 4.5 on the new CEFR scale)
• IELTS Academic: 7.0
• Cambridge C1 Advanced: 180

Test Validity

All English test scores must be valid at the time of application. For TOEFL, scores are valid for two years from the test date. IELTS and Cambridge scores are typically valid for two years as well.

Common Misconceptions

1. Misconception: The old 2-hour TOEFL is still accepted.

• Fact: Yenching only accepts the new 90-minute TOEFL iBT from January 2026 onwards.

1. Misconception: The minimum TOEFL score is 90.

• Fact: The minimum score is 100 (legacy) or 4.5 (CEFR).

1. Misconception: Any English test is acceptable.

• Fact: Only TOEFL iBT (from January 2026), IELTS Academic, and Cambridge C1 Advanced are accepted.

1. Misconception: Test scores are valid indefinitely.

• Fact: Scores must be valid at the time of application, typically within two years of the test date.

1. Misconception: The new TOEFL is easier than the old one.

• Fact: The new TOEFL is more adaptive and aligned with CEFR levels, but difficulty varies by section and individual performance.

Quick Reference Table

| Test | Minimum Score | Validity | |---------------------|---------------|----------------| | TOEFL iBT (legacy) | 100 | 2 years | | TOEFL iBT (CEFR) | 4.5 | 2 years | | IELTS Academic | 7.0 | 2 years | | Cambridge C1 | 180 | 2 years |

Related Follow-Up Questions

1. What is the application deadline for Yenching Academy?

• The application deadline varies each year. Check the official Yenching Academy website for the most up-to-date information.

1. Can I submit an English test score from a previous application?

• Yes, as long as the score is still valid (within two years of the test date).

1. What if my English test score is below the minimum requirement?

• You may still apply, but admission is competitive, and meeting the minimum requirement is strongly recommended.

1. Are there any exemptions from the English test requirement?

• Exemptions may be granted for applicants who have completed a degree entirely in English. Check the official guidelines for details.

1. How do I send my English test scores to Yenching Academy?

• Follow the specific instructions for each test (e.g., ETS for TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge) to send your scores directly to Yenching Academy.

1. What other documents are required for the Yenching Academy application?

• In addition to English test scores, you will need academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and other supporting documents. Refer to the official application guidelines.

1. How can I prepare for the new TOEFL iBT?

• Use resources from ETS, practice with the new test format, and consider using tools like English AIdol's Study Abroad Hub for comprehensive preparation.

1. What is the difference between the old and new TOEFL iBT?

• The new TOEFL iBT is 90 minutes long, features multistage adaptive sections, and uses a 1-6 CEFR scale. The old test was 2 hours long and used a 0-120 scale.

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