Admission Policy - Schedule 1 English Language Admission Requirements to Coursework and Non-Award Courses

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Section 1 - Purpose

(1) This Schedule sets out English Language requirements for applicants to undergraduate, postgraduate, and
non-award courses.

Section 2 - Schedule

English proficiency descriptors and standards

(2) Macquarie University requires applicants to provide evidence that their English language proficiency is
appropriate for the linguistic demands of their intended course of study.

(3) The descriptors below outline the levels of English proficiency required for entry to coursework and non-award
courses at Macquarie University and the Macquarie University College with reference to the Common
European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR):

Level of English

Description of English Proficiency Standard

Indicative CEFR Level

Minimum proficiency standards for entry to Macquarie University College courses

Functional

Students have generally effective English communication on familiar topics. They can engage comfortably in unprepared routine communication in everyday situations. They can use simple vocabulary to discuss complex topics. They can grasp the majority of meaning, and infer key ideas, in a variety of texts, particularly in familiar fields. They can also convey technical information and solutions to (sometimes unpredictable) problems. Students still make many mistakes in language production but generally can make themselves understood.

Vocational

Students have generally effective command of English, though there may be some inaccuracies, inappropriacies, or misunderstandings. They can engage with fairly complex language, particularly on familiar topics, and they have a degree of fluency on familiar or routine topics. They can understand main points, key concepts, and authorial attitudes and viewpoints in extended texts (oral or written), and they can communicate these understandings clearly. They can analyse and compare information to provide and justify technical advice, specialist knowledge, and solutions.

Minimum proficiency standards for entry to Macquarie University courses

Students have effective command of English, using fairly complex language in general situations and some complex language in their own field. They can use fluent and nuanced expression to engage with familiar topics and social communication, though some inaccuracies, inappropriacies, and misunderstandings may still be evident. They can effectively structure and communicate arguments, clearly articulate detailed information, and summarise or report on previous interactions. They can provide and transmit solutions to sometimes complex problems, demonstrating understanding of knowledge, with depth in some areas.

Proficient

Students have a strong operational command of English. Communication is fluent and generally spontaneous. They can use language flexibly for social and professional purposes, with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriacies, or misunderstandings. They can engage with complex, lengthy texts on familiar and unfamiliar topics, understanding nuanced shades of meaning. They convey ideas clearly and precisely, cohesively, and coherently organising information using various formats for various purposes.

Students have a comprehensive operational command of English, demonstrating fluency and strong familiarity with natural expression. Any misunderstandings, inaccuracies, or inappropriacies are generally restricted to unfamiliar situations or contexts. They can engage with complex, lengthy texts on familiar and unfamiliar topics, locating directly stated information in a range of text types and identifying textual attitudes and opinions. They convey ideas clearly and precisely, cohesively, and coherently organising information using various formats for various purposes. They can provide and transmit solutions to sometimes complex problems, demonstrating understanding of knowledge, with depth in some areas.

Accepted evidence of English language proficiency

(4) Applicants may demonstrate their level of English proficiency through one of the following methods accepted by the University:

  1. An approved English language proficiency test.
  2. A recognised qualification with English as the language of instruction.
  3. An approved Foundation Program.
  4. A Macquarie University College English Language Program (ELP).
  5. Other approved English for Academic Purposes (EAP) programs.
  6. Other approved evidence deemed to satisfy minimum standards.

Section 3 - Approved English language tests

(5) The following section outlines English language proficiency tests accepted by Macquarie University and the minimum test scores required to satisfy English entry standards to various courses.

(6) The following English language tests are recognised by the University: