The MEME programme is an international programme that is given in English. Therefore an excellent command of the English language is a prerequisite for participation in the MEME programme.
In principle, all applicants must include a proof of proficiency in English with their application. Only applicants that meet either of the following requirements are exempt from proving proficiency in English:
- Applicants that are a native English speaker and completed secondary education in any one of the following countries: Canada, USA, UK, Ireland, New Zealand, Australia
- Applicants that have completed their bachelor education in any one of the following countries: Canada, USA, UK, Ireland, New Zealand, Australia
Each of the following is considered evidence of sufficient proficiency in English:
- IELTS (Academic) with an overall score of 6.5 – no less than 6.5 on each section
- TOEFL iBT* (internet-based test) with an overall score of 90 – no less than 21 on each section, 24 on writing
- Cambridge English – CAE (Certificate of Advanced English) or CPE (Cambridge English: Proficiency) with a minimum score of 180
* TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition is accepted
A copy of an authentic test certificate, no more than two years old, must be produced (after 2 years test results are no longer valid).
The tests can be taken in many locations worldwide. If you will not receive the certificate of your English proficiency test before the application deadline, please clearly indicate this on your application form. Also clearly indicate when you will be able the send the required documents.
For American English, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is the standard. It comes in three forms: the conventional paper-based version, the computer-based version, and the internet-based version. The TOEFL code of the University of Groningen (coordinating institution of the MEME programme) is 7191. Please do not forget to send a copy of the test results with your application package, even if you had the test results sent directly to the University of Groningen.
What if test results are not available yet on the day of your application:
Sometimes logistic reasons prevent students from obtaining proof of sufficient proficiency in English before the application deadline has passed. If such students can provide other convincing proof of proficiency in English (e.g. by an official letter of their university stating that the complete BSc programme of the student was taught in English) their application will be taken into consideration.
Alternatively, applicants can:
1. mention their test date on the application form
2. mention when we can expect the test result, and
3. add any proof that you have applied for a test (i.e.email of registration) to your Application package.
Please be aware that in above cases, admission to the MEME programme will typically be conditional upon passing an English language test before the start of the MEME programme.
Official test results often take a long time, but you will receive unofficial results online first and therefore it is also okay to make a screen shot or a scan of the page with unofficial results.