California State University weighs replacing TOEFL for international students

The California State University (CSU) system is considering a policy change that would allow international applicants to bypass the mandatory Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) requirement. Vice Chancellor Dilcie Perez proposed replacing the single test with multiple approved measures of English proficiency, such as the Duolingo English Test, SAT scores, or Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) results.

The proposal aims to reduce barriers caused by high testing costs and limited availability. The CSU Board of Trustees is expected to vote on the measure in November. Proponents argue the change will not lower academic standards but will instead make admissions more accessible.

The move comes as international enrollment in California faces declines. Industry projections suggest the state could lose approximately 7,000 international students this school year, potentially resulting in a loss of $1 billion in tuition and related spending. International students currently represent about 2.5 percent of the CSU system's 470,000 students.