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MELAB and TOEFL

Students who score less than 18 on the English or reading components of their ACT are required to take one of these two tests: MELAB (Michigan English Language Assessment Battery) or TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). The difference between the ACT and these two tests is that these exams focus on English, reading and comprehension and have no math or science questions.

Practice for the MELAB and TOEFL

More on this page: MELAB information | TOEFL information

MELAB at a glance

The official MELAB site has general information and registration information. 

See the University Counseling and Consulting Services site for the MELAB registration form [PDF] and the current test dates. Registration is done by mail. Make sure to bring the right documents to the test!

Fee Reduction Vouchers: Students who have already applied to the University and meet the University admissions profile may be eligible for a fee reduction voucher.

Note: the MELAB score will arrive after your application to the U of M is complete. This will not make your application “late” because the Office of Admission understands that it takes time to get the MELAB score.

The Commanding English Transition program will accept students until the program fills, which typically does not happen until some time in the spring.

MELAB: Michigan English Language Assessment Battery
2009-10 Test Dates and Registration Deadlines
Test Day and Date Time Deadline*
Saturday, November 21, 2009 9:00 a.m. Friday, November 6, 2009
Saturday, December 19, 2009 9:00 a.m. Friday, December 4, 2009
Saturday, January 30, 2010 9:00 a.m. Friday, January 15, 2010
Saturday, February 27, 2101 9:00 a.m. Friday, February 12, 2010
Saturday, March 27, 2010 9:00 a.m. Friday, March 12, 2010
*Registration form and payment must be received by mail by the deadline date or your registration will be returned. Late registrations will not be accepted.

Steps to taking the MELAB

  1. Fill out the registration form [PDF]. See the University Counseling and Consulting Services site for complete instructions.
    YOU WILL NEED:
    • Your alien registration card (green card) or proof of U.S. citizenship, or a passport from your home country with a current and recognizable photo.
    • One other form of photo identification such as a driver’s license or school I.D.
    • Social Security Number (if you have one).
    • One recent passport-sized photograph of yourself that looks like you do now.
    • Addresses of other universities or colleges to send your MELAB score (University of Minnesota address is provided). You may send your score for free to one other institution. There will be a $5 charge on test day for each additional school.
    • Check or money order, made out to the University of Minnesota in the amount of $80. The University does not accept cash or credit cards!
    • Be sure to write legibly!
  2. You must register by mail.
    • You will be given a copy of the registration form and receipt of payment, verification of your testing date, time, and place, and a map to the testing site.
  3. Deadlines:
    • Deadline to register is about two weeks before the test date and are provided above.

TOEFL Information

The Official TOEFL site has information about the test and how you can register.  The TOEFL is offered by Prometric in four Metro Area locations:

The TEOFL is also offered on the University campus at the UCCS Testing Center, Eddy Hall, 612-624-5520 (testing center # 7572). 

Register for the TOEFL now. The TOEFL customer care phone number is 1-800-468-6335.

How soon can I get a test?  You need to register 2-4 weeks ahead of time.

How much does it cost? $170. High school students can apply for a fee reduction through their high school counselor.

ID needed for the test: Students must bring a federal government ID to the test. A valid passport or green card is required. If you have concerns about your ID, call the TOEFL Customer Service line at 609-771-7100. Because this is an internationally secure test, the requirements are quite strict.

Results: Students will get an approximate score range right after they finish their test (write this number down). This is your highest and lowest possible score depending on how the essay is rated. Final results will be sent 2–3 weeks after taking the test.

For admission to the U of M, the minimum TOEFL score is 51.

Public Libraries and bookstores have TOEFL study books. The Test Prep Resource Center offers practice tests. The center is located in 302 Eddy Hall, 192 Pillsbury Drive S.E., Minneapolis campus. Call 612-626-0444 to arrange a time. Cost: $15 for four practice sessions.

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