TOEFL Guide
TOEFL Scores for US Universities: What You Actually Need
From 61 at community college to 110+ at top research universities — complete breakdown of TOEFL requirements across US institutions.
4 min read · Updated April 2025
TOEFL iBT scores range from 0 to 120. US university requirements vary enormously — a state university might accept 79, while a top research university may require 100 or above. Section minimums (particularly Writing and Speaking) often matter as much as the overall score.
TOEFL Requirements by University Tier
| Institution Type | Typical Minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Community colleges | 61–70 | Many offer conditional admission below 61 |
| State universities (regional) | 79–80 | Most common minimum |
| State universities (flagship) | 80–90 | Some require 100+ for grad programs |
| Top research universities | 100–105 | Often per-section minimums too |
| Ivy League + elite private | 100–115 | No official minimum, but 100+ expected |
| MBA programs | 100+ | Top programs often expect 110+ |
| Medical school / PhD | 100+ | Some require specific section scores |
Section Score Minimums to Watch
Many graduate programs set per-section minimums, especially for Writing and Speaking. A total of 100 with a Writing score of 18 may not be sufficient for programs that require Writing ≥22. Always check section requirements separately from the overall score.
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Estimate my TOEFL score →Frequently Asked Questions
Is a TOEFL score of 100 good?
Yes — a TOEFL of 100 is considered strong and meets the requirement for most US universities, including many top research institutions. It typically corresponds to IELTS 7.0 and demonstrates solid academic English proficiency.
Which is harder — TOEFL or IELTS?
Neither is objectively harder, but they suit different learners. TOEFL is entirely computer-based with North American accents and academic contexts. IELTS uses varied accents (British, Australian, American) and includes a face-to-face Speaking interview. Most students perform similarly on both.
How long are TOEFL scores valid?
TOEFL scores are valid for two years from the test date. After two years, the score is no longer reportable to institutions.