English Language Proficiency

Applicants whose primary language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency through academic transcripts or testing. English language proficiency is required for admission to all programs of study at Johnson & Wales University, regardless of country of citizenship or residency. Students who do not provide proof of English proficiency will be enrolled in the English as a Second Language (ESL) program and registered for ESL classes prior to beginning regular degree studies. For more information, please see English proficiency requirements.

Johnson & Wales University’s English as a Second Language (ESL) program allows students to focus on the areas where they need the most improvement. 

English as a Second Language (ESL) Program admission requirements are as follows:

• Transcript, diploma, certificate or examination results from last program completed or attended. If the student plans to continue matriculating via an academic pathway after ESL, the student must complete the undergraduate or graduate application/enrollment process.

Types of ESL programs:

• ESL only (with no degree intention) — There is no GPA requirement for this program.
• ESL (with undergraduate degree intention) — The GPA requirement is the same as the intended undergraduate major.
• ESL (with graduate degree intention) — The GPA requirement is the same as the intended graduate major.