Overview
The MSRT is an English proficiency test run by Iran's Ministry of Science, Research and Technology. It is conducted locally and is required for PhD candidates who want to continue their studies in Iran. It replaced the earlier MCHE exam from the Ministry of Culture and Higher Education. This page rests only on a 2017 journal review of the test, which itself draws on sources from 2013 to 2016. The ministry and exam portal pages could not be opened when this page was checked in 2026, so formats, cut-offs, validity and dates may have changed. Confirm them with the official exam portal.
Who can apply
There is no restriction on registering, and candidates who miss the cut-off score they need can register again for a later session. Registration is online using personal details and the national identification number.
Exam pattern
The test has three parts, split over two booklets. Listening is given first in its own booklet, so candidates cannot spend listening time on other sections.
| Part | Questions | Time allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Listening comprehension | 30 | 30 to 35 minutes |
| Grammar | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Reading comprehension | 40 | 45 minutes |
The listening part includes short dialogues followed by a question from a third voice, and short talks or lectures with multiple-choice questions.
Marking and results
The test is scored objectively by computer. Per the review, candidates can see results online about seven to ten days after the exam and can send them online to their institution. The score is valid for two years from the exam date, according to the review.
The required cut-off varies by institution and field, from about 45 to 75 percent. A 50 percent cut-off is the minimum accepted for non-English majors.
Important dates
The review says the exam is held about ten times a year, roughly monthly, in large Iranian cities and some other cities.
Preparation tips
Practise timed multiple-choice listening, grammar and reading questions.
Check the cut-off your target programme requires before choosing how much to prepare.
There is no speaking or writing section, so spend preparation time on the three tested skills.
What score do I need on the MSRT?
It depends on the institution and field. The 2017 review reports cut-offs from 45 to 75 percent, with 50 percent as the minimum for non-English majors.