Masters in Development Studies 2018-2019 Brochure nieuw ontwerp 2018 web | Page 7

Language requirements
Our programmes are taught in English so applicants need to be proficient in English.
If English is not your language of instruction at University level: a language test certificate is
required.
If English is your language of instruction at University level but you are originating from
Rwanda, the French-speaking part of Cameroon or from an Asian country except for India and the
Philippines: a language test certificate is required. In case of unavailability of this test or in case
of inability to take the test, you can be admitted to the Master programme provided you attend
the intensive English language course (see below).
You are exempted from submitting a language test certificate if you are originating from one of
the following countries: Australia, Botswana, Can-ada, Cameroon (English-speaking region),
Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Gha-na, India, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Namibia, New
Zealand, Nigeria, Philippines, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, UK, USA, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Intensive language course
The intensive two-week English language course is organised prior to the start of the Master
programme. In addition to bringing the student’s English competency up to the required level,
this course also offers an introduction to international development literature and practice.
This language course is accessible for students from other language back-grounds who do not
meet the English language admission criteria for direct admission, i.e. students with paper-based
TOEFL scores between 500 and 550 (or internet-based TOEFL scores between 61 and 79) or IELTS
scores between 5.5 and 6.0. The course can be attended on a voluntarily basis if permission is
granted by the IOB.
Although the course is offered free of charge by the Institute, students should note that only
VLIR-UOS scholars will receive an allowance during this period.
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