In order to receive a Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status,” Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified schools may require prospective international students to pass an English language test or prove their ability to speak, read and write in English. Many universities or learning institutions within the United States, require non-native speakers wishing to study in the United States to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and achieve a particular score in order to be eligible for admission. 

Prospective international students should be weary of individuals who offer to take the TOEFL exam on their behalf, as it could violate the status of their student visa. School officials and students should report any suspicion of TOEFL-related fraud to the SEVP Response Center and the Educational Testing Service. You can also report any suspicious activity to the Homeland Security Investigations Tip Line.