Cal State Considers Dropping TOEFL for International Students
California State University may eliminate TOEFL requirement for international students, impacting enrollment and funding.
2 min read
The California State University (Cal State) system is exploring the possibility of removing the mandatory English proficiency test, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), for international applicants. Vice Chancellor Dilcie Perez proposed the change to the Board of Trustees, which could vote on the policy in November. The move aims to replace the single test with multiple approved measures of English ability, such as the Duolingo English Test, SAT, or Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) results.
International Enrollment Decline Amid Visa Restrictions
International student enrollment in California has dropped significantly this year due to the Trump administration’s stricter visa policies. A trade group predicted a 15% decline in international student numbers, resulting in a loss of about 7,000 students and approximately $1 billion in tuition revenue. International students typically pay full tuition, which is much higher than the in-state rate, and this funding helps subsidize education for domestic students.
Impact on University Funding and Student Opportunities
International students also play a crucial role in the U.S. job market. Many graduates are eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), a post-graduation work permit that allows them to stay and work in the U.S. In 2024, over 640,000 foreign graduates held OPT or related work permits. However, some experts argue that the proposed change may not significantly affect enrollment, as the U.S. State Department still controls student visa approvals, and applicants who lack basic English proficiency are unlikely to pass the visa process.
Broader Trends in Admissions Reform
California has been reducing reliance on standardized testing for years. Both Cal State and the University of California (UC) systems have already eliminated the SAT and ACT. Some professors report that students entering university now struggle with basic math and English, raising concerns about the long-term impact of these policy shifts.
Source: Breitbart
