Academic Readiness Screening ACRES for Applicants of PhD Programmes

The set of tasks in ACRES consists of items aimed at determining applicant ability for accessing appropriate language and academic skills as part of a wider process for determining suitability for programmes.

For Applicants of PhD Programmes

Academic Readiness Screening (ACRES) at the doctoral level

The doctoral-level ACRES evaluates the applicant’s academic readiness by assessing their English academic language and communication skills, which are foundational for doctoral studies and research communication. The assessment combines analytical and reflective elements with written tasks and an oral interview, creating a holistic view of the applicant’s academic abilities and potential.

The ACRES assessment is used in the following doctoral programmes:

Doctoral Programme in Biological and Environmental Science
Doctoral Programme in Chemistry
Doctoral Programme in Information Technology
Doctoral Programme in Mathematics and Statistics
Doctoral Programme in Physics

This option is available to a limited number of applicants who meet the eligibility and selection criteria. The University of Jyväskylä will contact the applicants selected by the departments with further details of the evaluation process.

Following an evaluation, an applicant is only eligible for re-evaluation after a minimum period of one year.

Please note that the primary means of demonstrating language skills is a degree and a language test or certificate. As we cannot guarantee an applicant's access to the ACRES process, we recommend that you take a language test or examination if you cannot demonstrate your language skills with your degree.

For the doctoral programmes of the Faculty of Mathematics and Information Technology, other demonstrations of English language proficiency may be replaced by an Academic Readiness Screening (ACRES) during the application process.

Master's Degree Programme in Nanoscience

Master's Degree Programme in Psychology of Physical Activity, Health and Wellbeing

Master's Degree Programme in Responsible Management and Business of Sport

How to prepare for ACRES

ACRES is not a validated language test that measures separate language skills. The purpose of ACRES is to recognize doctoral applicants who are appropriately suited for studying in a doctoral programme based on their current level of academic readiness based on their research communication skills. These include strong written and oral academic communication skills in English, linked to specific disciplines, self-directedness, and commitment to research integrity and ethics.

Reflecting on your past experiences with academic English and research communication, along with your personal values, strategies, motives, and goals for pursuing a doctoral degree, is a helpful way to prepare for the evaluation. You will receive further details regarding the specific tasks required for the evaluation.