Understanding TOEFL Scoring: What’s a Good Score for University Admissions?

Introduction

The TOEFL exam process can be intimidating, especially when needing to understand how scoring is determined and what even counts as a good score for acceptance to a university. This complete TOEFL score guide explains everything from how scores are determined to how TOEFL scores measure up to university requirements at all different institutions. It also discusses what a good TOEFL score is, and gives the ranges of TOEFL scores that universities accept around the world, and in various programs. 

What is TOEFL and Why Does Scoring Matter?

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is an international standardized test used to measure English language proficiency of non-native speakers who want to enroll in English-speaking universities. The TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test) focuses on the core academic English skills of reading, listening, speaking and writing. It’s imperative to have a comprehension of the TOEFL scoring guide since universities use TOEFL scores to decide if applicants can survive in an English academic setting. The score you receive can affect whether you are granted admission, eligible for scholarships and sometimes even visa applications.

Supporting Data and Statistics (2024)

• Worldwide, average overall TOEFL iBT score in 2024 is around 86 out of 120, which corresponds to the following average section scores, respectively: Reading 21.9, Listening 22.1, Speaking 20.8, Writing 21.1.
• India has an average TOEFL score of about 94, higher than the global average.
• Results from China averaged 85, Korea 86, Japan 72, Brazil 88, Iran 93 and the USA 91.
• Related news: The number of TOEFL test takers took a post-pandemic surge of 59% in India in 2022 as compared to the last year, indicating high demand for English proficiency certification in the global study market.
• More than 85% of universities in Canada choose TOEFL scores for admissions and in the US and many European countries it commands equal or more preference in the admissions process.

The TOEFL test is about two hours long and was recently shortened in response to feedback from test takers, keeping the rigorous standard of English academic skills testing while also being convenient for test takers. So in conclusion, TOEFL scoring is essential in that it measures English skills… and as a result open doors to academic experiences and professional opportunities all over the world. Understanding this score can help test-takers set sensible goals based on university or job requirements. (source: economictimes.com )

TOEFL Scoring guide

The TOEFL iBT (iBT stands for “internet-based test”) scoring process is extremely rigorous and in-depth to ensure each test taker is fairly and accurately scored on all four components of the test: Reading, Listening, Speaking and Writing. Subsection scores range from 0 (worst) to 30 (best), with a total range of 0 to 120 points.

1. Reading and Listening: Both sections are computer-scored. Calculated from the number of correct answers, raw scores are converted to a 0–30 scale score to standardize across various test versions. Performance levels in these sections are based on three proficiency levels:

• High (22-30)
• Intermediate (14-21)
• Low (0-13)

2. Speaking: There are six tasks in the speaking section which are initially scored between 0 and 4 with half-point intervals by human raters. These scores are then converted to a scale of 0–30. Speaking scores are categorized as:

• Good (26-30)
• Fair (18-25)
• Limited (10-17)
• Weak (0-9)

3. Writing: The writing component is divided into two tasks, scored between 0 and 5 by human raters. The composite raw score is converted to a 0-30 scaled score. Writing skills are rated as:

• Good (24-30)
• Fair (17-23)
• Limited (0-16)

Summing the scaled scores of the 4 sections provides the overall TOEFL score and there is no official passing score but expectations that are program-specific to the respective institution. New TOEFL Scoring System from January 2026 From the year 2026 January, TOEFL will use a new scoring range of 1-6 with half score for each skill in alignment with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). During a two-year transition, test takers will get both the new 1-6 scale as well as the traditional 0-120 score. This comprehensive TOEFL scoring guide helps candidates understand how they are being scored and what scores they are to achieve in order to meet the university admission requirements. It also illustrates the extent to which human raters are required for spoken and written responses versus computer scoring of reading and listening.

How Is the TOEFL Scored?

TOEFL Scoring The following explains how the TOEFL test is scored. Scores are scaled so that they can be compared to the distributions of other scores, including those attending North American colleges and universities. Reading and Listening raw scores (number of correct answers) are converted to 0-30 scaled scores. Scores for both Speaking and Writing are derived by human raters using rubrics, and the scores are then given on the same 0-30 scale. ETS, which administers TOEFL, breaks down scores into ranges of proficiency to assist in understanding what the scores indicate about language skills:

• Expert work level (about 22-30 out of 40 per section)
• Intermediate (about 14-21 per section)
• Beginning-levels (under 14 pts. per section)

These levels indicate the extent to which test-takers mastered the comprehension, use and production of English with high scorers being prepared for academic university study.

What is a Good TOEFL Score?

What a “good TOEFL score” is will depend on the universities you are applying to and the programs into which you wish to be admitted. However, there are general guidelines:

• Anything over 100 out of 120 is very good and competitive for top universities and graduate schools.
• A score of between 90 and 100 is usually considered good for most universities and degree programs.
• Anything below 90 is low and would possibly limit the university selections you would have (universities with lower English proficiency requirements or universities requiring an ESL course).

TOEFL Score Requirements for Universities

Universities set their own TOEFL score minimums, which can vary widely:

US University TOEFL Scores

• Scores of 100 or above are typically expected from top universities like Harvard, Yale, Princeton and MIT.
• Most fine institutions will accept from 80 – 100.
• Some schools will accept scores as low as 70, but not as often for competitive programs.

Examples:

University	Minimum TOEFL Score Required
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	90
Harvard University	100+ (some programs no strict minimum)
Stanford University	89-100
Duke University	100
University of California, Berkeley	80
University of Texas at Austin	79

Graduate and doctoral programs often require higher TOEFL scores, typically 90 to 110, reflecting the advanced English proficiency expected for academic research and communication.

TOEFL Score Breakdown by Section

Knowing what you scored in each section can let you know what areas you should focus your preparation:

• Reading and Listening The scores allow for low proficiency (0-14), intermediate proficiency (15-21), and high proficiency (22-30).
• Speaking: Scored on a scale of 0-4 per question, then converted to 0-30. Anything over 25 is classified as advanced.
• Writing: Scored on a 0-5 scale per task, then scaled to 0-30. Numbers over 24 indicate exceptional writing abilities.

Tips to Achieve a Good TOEFL Score

1. Get a Feel for the Format: Try out all sections of the interview and time your words. Know what to expect.
2. Develop Academic Vocabulary: Great way to develop vocabulary to improve reading and writing skills.
3. Active Listening Practice: Listen to English lectures, podcasts, and test-prep recordings to enhance your listening skills.
4. Speak More: Read speaking scripts out loud, record it and get feedback.
5. Writing: Practice integrated and independent writing tasks for structure and flow.
6. Attempt Mock Test: The more you do, the better you become. Become confident and prepare with a lot of tests.

Why TOEFL Scores Matter for University Admissions

TOEFL scores enable colleges to evaluate whether or not a student is able to:

• Understand lectures and readings.
• Participate in discussions and presentations.
• Complete academic writing assignments.
• Immerse yourself in an English-academic environment.

The TOEFL serves as an objective measure to bolster your application, demonstrating that you can, indeed, read, write, speak, and comprehend English at a proficient level.

Challenges and Benefits of TOEFL: A Balanced View

In preparing for the TOEFL and knowing how the test is scored, it’s good to weigh the merits the passages provide vs. the challenges they pose. This alternatives-based approach allows for realistic preparation for those who are planning to take the test.

Challenges of TOEFL

1. Language Proficiency Pressure: TOEFL measures high-level academic English skills, which can be scary for students, particularly if they come from non-English speaking countries and don’t have too much experience with English in daily life. Getting good at all four components reading, listening, speaking, writing takes much practice and time.
2. Test Format Adaptation: The TOEFL iBT’s computer format includes reading passages with timed listening, speaking into a microphone, and listening sufficient to frighten some candidates who have no experience of digital examination or academic English contexts.
3. Speaking Section Anxiety: Unlike other components, the speaking portion tests an examinee’s ability to give live responses, under time constraints. This can be an anxiety-provoking feature that impacts performance, especially since human raters assess responses based on fluency, cohesiveness, and pronunciation.
4. Cost and Accessibility: The cost of the exam can be a deterrent for some candidates, especially in the developing world. Furthermore, availability of test centers or internet connectivity for the online version could be limited, affecting the ability to test.

Benefits of TOEFL

1. Global Recognition: More than 12,000 universities and 13,000 institutions accept TOEFL scores throughout the world. Such recognition can provide for further education, scholarships, or even job opportunities across the globe.
2. Comprehensive Skill Assessment: TOEFL tests all of the four central language skills, providing a fuller picture of the student’s preparedness for academic communication than tests that only focus on sub-components.
3. Objective and Standardized Scoring: The scoring protocol is partially automated and partially evaluated by humans so that all entries are scored according to a common standard. This fair verdict allows universities to trust and use TOEFL scores for admission purposes.
4. Academic Preparation: TOEFL preparation is a great way to improve academic English language skills, such as vocabulary, listening to lectures, writing research and presenting information orally, which you will continue to benefit long after the test.
5. Increasing Accessibility: Ongoing updates and changes (such as the reduction in the amount of time allotted for the test and introduction of online testing options) make the exam more accessible and are designed to facilitate taking the examination under favorable conditions for applicants around the world.

How Gateway International Assists Students

At Gateway International, we understand how stressful clearing an exam can be. With years of experience, our experts help students with successful clearing tips and strategies. Our Support Includes:

• Step-by-step TOEFL scoring strategy and tips.
• Registration and booking your slot.
• TOEFL practice tests and mock exams..
• College-specific guidance on minimum TOEFL scoring.

End-to-end handholding until you step onto your university campus.

Students Query 

Q1: What’s the lowest score in TOEFL accepted by the best University? A: For leading universities, you would be looking at a minimum TOEFL iBT score of maybe 100 out of 120. However, some programs may require higher or lower scores, and the cutoff can even vary with the specific university, so be sure to check the school’s website. Q2: Is it possible to be admitted if I have a TOEFL score less than the minimum requirement of your University? A: If your score falls below the minimum required for admission then you are also less likely to get admission, but you may get to study through conditional admissions or English language support courses from universities. It’s a good idea to get in touch with the admissions office to see what options are available to you. Q3: What are the scores for the TOEFL Writing section?  A: The Writing section is graded by humans who judge your essays based on structure, clarity, grammar, and development of ideas. Scores range from 0-30, with a favorable score being about 24 or better

Conclusion

It’s essential for anyone considering university in an English-speaking country to be familiar with the TOEFL grading scale. With its precise scoring in different skill areas of reading, listening, speaking, and writing, the TOEFL iBT test provides the information you need to pursue your academic dreams. As every university has its own TOEFL score cut off, an understanding of how the score is calculated and what a good score means will enable you to best prepare for the test and meet the admission requirements with confidence. In the end, the TOEFL score is a time-honored objective measurement that continues to be the gatekeeper of entry to university and opportunities around the world. A good prep combined with TOEFL score ranges helps test-takers reach scores consistent with their academic goals and university requirements.

Quiz

1. What are the four sections of the TOEFL iBT exam? a) Reading, Listening, Grammar, Writing b) Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing c) Reading, Speaking, Vocabulary, Writing d) Listening, Speaking, Grammar, Writing Answer: b) Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing
2. What is the total highest possible score on the TOEFL iBT exam? a) 100 b) 120 c) 150 d) 80 Answer: b) 120
3. Each section of the TOEFL is scored on a scale from: a) 0 to 20 b) 0 to 50 c) 0 to 30 d) 1 to 10 Answer: c) 0 to 30

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the maximum TOEFL score? A: The high-level score of TOEFL iBT test is 120, and each of the four sections is between 0 and 30 points. Q2: How do universities regard section scores or overall TOEFL score? A: There is not one answer because most universities look at the total score, but some programs require minimal scores on the individual sections, especially speaking and writing. Q3: What is the validity period of TOEFL scores? A: TOEFL scores are valid for two years, based on the test date. Q4: What is the minimum TOEFL score required for US student visas? A: There is no minimum score for US student visas but most universities expect a minimum TOEFL score for admission and this indirectly impacts visa approval. Q5: May I submit TOEFL scores for both undergraduate and graduate admissions? A: Yes, for all undergraduate and graduate programs worldwide, but scores may differ depending on program and level.

Abhinav Jain / About Author

By Abhinav Jain, Founder & Director, Gateway International | Btech, MBA, Serial Entrepreneur | Study abroad consultants and AI in business specialist. At Gateway, we not only send students overseas, but we also make them flourish in and out of campus. LinkedIn Profile: http://linkedin.com/in/abhinavedysor