Test of Oral Proficiency (TOP)

International graduate students who plan to work as teaching assistants are subject to an oral proficiency requirement in English. The UCLA Test of Oral Proficiency (TOP) is designed to determine whether an international graduate student is linguistically ready to teach and interact with undergraduate students in the classroom and office hours effectively.

NOTE: This requirement does not apply to all international graduate students—only those who plan to work as teaching assistants.

  • Exam Overview

    Click here to learn about the TOP Exam.

    Exam Overview
  • Exam Registration

    Click here to learn more about how to register for the exam.

    Exam Registration
  • Exam Preparation

    Click here to learn more about preparing for the exam.

    Exam Preparation
  • Exam Scoring Details

    Click here to learn more about the exam’s scoring details.

    Scoring Details
  • Sample Exams & Results

    Click here to access a few sample exams and scores for reference.

    Sample Exams & Results
  • Frequently Asked Questions

    Click here to read our most frequently asked questions.

    FAQs
  • Resources to Improve Skills

    Click here for resources that can help you improve your oral skills!

    Skill Improvement