The U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has released updated English Language Proficiency (ELP) testing requirements for foreign healthcare professionals seeking to work in the United States. These changes became effective on May 12, 2026, and may impact healthcare professionals who are planning to obtain or renew their VisaScreen® or VisaKey certification.
At MedPro International, we want our healthcare professionals to stay informed and prepared as requirements evolve.
What Is Changing?
HRSA periodically reviews and updates the approved English-language examinations and the minimum passing scores required for foreign healthcare workers. The latest update includes changes to approved testing providers and score requirements used to demonstrate English proficiency for immigration and credentialing purposes.
These requirements are an important component of the VisaScreen® or VisaKey process, which is required for many foreign-educated healthcare professionals seeking occupational visas in the United States.
Who Is Affected?
The updated requirements apply to healthcare professionals who take an approved English language proficiency examination on or after May 12, 2026. Individuals who completed their English exam before that date will continue to be evaluated under the previous requirements.
This update may affect a variety of healthcare professions, including:
- Registered Nurses
- Physical Therapists
- Occupational Therapists
- Clinical Laboratory Scientists and Medical Technologists
- Clinical Laboratory Technicians
- Speech Language Pathologists
- Audiologists
- Physician Assistants
- Licensed Practical and Vocational Nurses
What This Means for MedPro Explorers
As you plan your pathway to a healthcare career in the United States, it is important to understand how these updated English language proficiency requirements may impact your testing strategy.
One of the most significant changes is that TOEIC is no longer recognized by HRSA as an approved English language proficiency examination for healthcare worker certification. Explorers who have not yet completed an accepted English examination should carefully review the updated requirements and choose an approved testing option moving forward.
For Registered Nurses, MedPro International continues to recommend the IELTS Academic examination as the preferred English language proficiency test. IELTS is widely accepted by state boards of nursing, recognized throughout the healthcare industry, and aligned with the communication skills needed to succeed in U.S. healthcare settings.
Another important update is that IELTS Academic examinations are transitioning to a computer-delivered format. IELTS paper-based testing will no longer be available, so candidates planning to take IELTS should begin preparing for the computer-based testing experience and schedule their examination accordingly.
As requirements continue to evolve, we encourage all Explorers to stay proactive, review their testing plans, and communicate with their U.S. Advancement Guide if they have questions about approved examinations, testing timelines, or how these changes may affect their individual journey.
We’re Here to Help
Navigating credentialing and immigration requirements can feel overwhelming, especially when updates occur. MedPro International remains committed to supporting healthcare professionals throughout every step of the process.
By staying informed and prepared, you can continue making progress toward your goal of building a successful healthcare career in the United States.