by Rachel Stevens | June 2, 2026
Michigan English Test (MET) Recognized in Updated HRSA English Proficiency Requirements for Foreign Healthcare Workers
The Health Resources and Services Administration published updated English proficiency requirements for foreign healthcare workers on May 13, 2026, including updated guidance on accepted English language assessments for occupational visa certification.
During the review process, Michigan Language Assessment joined a TruMerit-convened discussion on strengthening English proficiency standards for foreign-trained healthcare professionals and recommended Michigan English Test score requirements for HRSA’s consideration. Under the updated requirements, the Michigan English Test is accepted to certify English proficiency for eligible healthcare professionals, including nurses, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and other healthcare workers seeking occupational visas to work in the United States.
MET Minimum Score Requirements
According to the updated HRSA requirements, the following minimum MET scores apply for tests taken after May 12, 2026:
| Healthcare Worker Category | Minimum MET Overall Score | Minimum MET Speaking Score |
| Registered Nurses | 58 | 59 |
| Other B.S.-level Health Care Workers | 58 | 59 |
| Health Care Workers below B.S. level | 53 | 59 |
| Occupational Therapists | 58 | 59 |
| Physical Therapists | 58 | 59 |
Applicants should review the official HRSA guidance for the most current requirements, score thresholds, and profession-specific details:
https://www.hrsa.gov/office-global-health/foreign-healthcare-worker-requirements
The inclusion of MET provides healthcare professionals with an additional trusted option for demonstrating English proficiency. MET evaluates real-world English communication skills across listening, reading, writing, and speaking, helping candidates show readiness for professional and clinical communication in English-speaking healthcare environments.
We remain committed to supporting internationally educated healthcare professionals as they prepare for certification and career advancement. To help candidates succeed, we offer preparation resources on our website, including information about the test format, sample materials, study guidance, and tools to build confidence before test day.
Healthcare professionals, employers, and certification advisors are encouraged to visit our website for MET preparation resources and to consult the HRSA requirements directly to confirm the latest eligibility and score requirements for their profession.
Learn more and access preparation resources:
https://michiganassessment.org/which-test-is-right-for-me/met/met-preparation/#met-prep