Minimum TOEFL Score Requirements

Educational institutions in the United States consistently emphasize the minimum scores required for student applications. This is particularly relevant for international applicants, who must submit TOEFL scores as part of their admission process. Given that the TOEFL does not have a designated failing score, candidates must know the minimum score needed to gain acceptance into their preferred college.

Candidates should understand that this assessment is relative and entirely dependent on the specific university or college. The definition of a "good" score can differ significantly between institutions. In some cases, candidates with notably low TOEFL scores may be granted conditional admission if they commit to taking additional English courses during the semester. Additionally, it is essential to note that some universities and colleges prefer IELTS scores over TOEFL scores. Furthermore, some institutions do not require either tests or focus solely on the strength of the college application. Therefore, candidates should not feel discouraged if they do not meet the minimum requirements of certain institutions.

What is a Good TOEFL Score?

High scores on proficiency tests are essential for candidates seeking admission to their preferred colleges. A target TOEFL score of 100 or higher is advisable, as it will meet the minimum requirements of most colleges & programs in the United States. Typically, a score exceeding 85 is regarded as a satisfactory achievement on the TOEFL. It is reasonable to conclude that more prestigious institutions require higher TOEFL scores.

Required and Recommended TOEFL Score

Higher education institutions typically provide details about the minimum required score and the preferred recommended score. When applicants encounter an attainable score, it is likely the minimum requirement necessary for admission consideration. Conversely, a recommended score indicates the level at which the institution would favor applicants, suggesting that those who meet this score are more desirable than those who only meet the minimum threshold.

Candidates should strive to achieve the recommended score rather than merely meeting the required score. A candidate who attains a score near the recommended level is more likely to be prioritized for admission than others who only meet the minimum requirement. By aiming higher and achieving a better score, candidates can enhance their chances of acceptance into their desired course and college.

Minimum TOEFL Scores for US Universities

Given the difficulty of visiting each institution to determine the required minimum TOEFL scores and recognizing that candidates would benefit from dedicating their time to practice, we have compiled the necessary scores on this page. A concise list of universities and their suggested TOEFL scores is provided. It is important to note that some departments or colleges may exhibit flexibility and not strictly enforce these scores as cut-offs, mainly if the overall application profile is strong. Universities may still consider applications even if the scores do not meet the stated requirements.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

MIT first-year applicants - TOEFL iBT 90
MIT Graduate Mechanical Engineering - TOEFL iBT 100
MIT Graduate EECS- TOEFL iBT 100
MIT Graduate Economics - iBT 100

Harvard University

Harvard MBA- TOEFL iBT 109
Harvard Medical School's Master's Programs- TOEFL iBT 103, TOEFL Essentials 11
Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Science- TOEFL iBT 80

Stanford University

Stanford Master’s Programs: School of Engineering- TOEFL iBT 89
Stanford Graduate Economics - TOEFL iBT 100
Stanford Business School - TOEFL iBT 100
According to the EE department, applicants with a TOEFL score below the minimum requirement are still eligible to apply. If admitted, they may be required to enroll in English courses.

Yale University

First-year applicants- TOEFL iBT 100
School of Art- TOEFL iBT 100

University of California, Los Angeles

Graduate school - TOEFL iBT 87
Undergraduate school - TOEFL iBT 100
EE - Graduate program - TOEFL iBT 87

University of Texas, Austin

School of Information- TOEFL iBT 79
Graduate School- TOEFL iBT 79
School of Journalism - TOEFL iBT 79,
Mechanical Engineering (graduate program)- TOEFL iBT 79

Columbia University

Undergraduate admissions - TOEFL iBT 105
School of Arts - TOEFL iBT 100
Graduate (CS) - TOEFL iBT 101
Graduate (law school)- TOEFL iBT 105

University of Florida

Warrington School of Business (MBA)- iBT 80
Department of Computer & Information Science & Engineering - iBT 80

North Carolina State University

Undergraduate- TOEFL iBT 80, TOEFL Essentials 9.0
Graduate- TOEFL iBT 80
Graduate ECE- TOEFL iBT 90

Rutgers University

Graduate School- TOEFL iBT Writing 22, Speaking 23, Reading 21, Listening 17
College of Nursing/Pharmacy - TOEFL iBT Writing 22, Speaking 23, Reading 21, Listening 17

Arizona State University

Graduate school - iBT 80
Carey School of Business - iBT 80
School of Molecular Sciences -iBT 80
Engineering(graduate) -iBT 80

Iowa State University

Undergraduate - TOEFL iBT 71
Graduate - TOEFL iBT 79
Graduate - Mechanical Engineering - TOEFL iBT 79

Finding Required Score

The approach to determining the necessary TOEFL score differs based on whether candidates apply for undergraduate or graduate programs. Given the challenge of listing the numerous colleges available, the following steps outline how candidates can identify their required minimum score.

Undergraduate Program
In the case of undergraduate programs, colleges and universities typically provide an overall score instead of individual scores for each course. This score reflects the institution's performance across all offered courses. To find this score, prospective students can enter the institution's name into a Google search using the phrase "TOEFL required to score." Suppose this approach does not produce quick results. In that case, candidates can explore the institution's official website, where the information is usually found in sections aimed at international students or in the FAQs.

Postgraduate Program Determining the necessary TOEFL score for postgraduate programs is more intricate, as universities set varying requirements based on the specific course. As illustrated in the previous list, these scores may be higher or lower than the general university requirement. Candidates must thoroughly explore the official website of their chosen program or department to find this information. If it is not easily accessible, they may need to check sections specifically aimed at international students.

Minimum Score Not Met? What Next?

TOEFL is required for non-native English speakers. If a candidate is a non-native speaker who has completed their last degree in countries like the UK, Canada, the US, Australia, and New Zealand, their TOEFL requirement might be waived. For individuals who do not meet the minimum TOEFL requirements set by a university, there are several alternatives and options available to enhance their English proficiency and improve their chances of admission. Here are some of the other options:

• Many universities offer intensive English language programs or ESL (English as a Second Language) courses to help non-native speakers improve their English skills. Completing such a program can sometimes lead to conditional admission to the university.
• Some universities accept other English proficiency tests instead of the TOEFL. These may include the IELTS (International English Language Testing System), PTE (Pearson Test of English), or Cambridge English exams. Prospective students should check the specific requirements of their desired institution.
• Some universities may offer conditional admission to candidates who do not meet the TOEFL requirements but demonstrate potential for success. This often involves enrolling in an English language program at the university before starting their degree program.
• Engaging in language exchange programs can help individuals improve their English skills through conversation practice with native speakers. This can be done through local community programs, online platforms, or university-sponsored initiatives.
• Some institutions offer pathway programs that combine English language training with academic coursework. These programs are designed to help candidates transition into their degree programs while improving their English skills. Successful completion of a pathway program often guarantees admission to the university.