Need to know your English level or how to register?
Request More Information
Learn your English level and how to register
Request a free placement test!
We will guide all newly accepted students through each step of the way in person or online!
Signing up
New Students (IELP / ACEI)
After being accepted as a new student, you will be invited to attend a two-day scheduled orientation to meet the instructors and International Student Support team to learn more about your program and Salem State University.
- Orientation Day 1: You will complete a placement test, speaking evaluation, and writing sample.
- Orientation Day 2: You will receive advising on your level and suitable classes and learn how to log into your Navigator account to register and pay for your classes online.
New Students (CESL / TOEFL)
After being accepted as a new student, you will receive instructions by e-mail regarding how to make an appointment (in person or online) to complete a placement test and to learn how to log into your Navigator account to register and pay for your class online.
Returning Students (Any program)
Before the end of each session, you will receive an updated schedule with instructions on how to log into your Navigator account to register and pay for your classes.
Placement and Tests
English Placement Test
You will have approximately 35 minutes to take a computer-adaptive English test that assesses your level of reading, listening, grammar, and vocabulary.
Speaking Interview
You will have 5-15 minutes to do a face-to-face oral interview designed to assess your English language proficiency in the following areas:
- Listening comprehension
- Organizing and elaborating your response to a variety of topics
- Communicating meaning
The interview questions reflect language used in everyday life in the U.S. - at home, at work, and in the community.
Writing Sample
You will have 15-20 minutes to complete a short composition from a selection of writing prompts to demonstrate your ability to:
- Write clearly and concisely
- Use a variety of words
- Use correct sentence structure (grammar)
Class Level Placement
All students in the Intensive English Language Program (IELP) and American Culture and English Immersion (ACEI) program will register for a temporary level placeholder for core courses (Oral Communication, Academic Reading and Writing, Integrated Language Skills) and will be notified of which level to attend by the director upon reviewing their assessment results. All class schedules can be viewed in Navigator.
