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TOEFL Accepting Universities in USA- Your Guide

Updated on 25 July, 2024

Kanika Pruthi

Kanika Pruthi

Sr. Content Writer & Study Abroad Expert

toefl accepting universities in usa

One of the major admission criteria in TOEFL accepting universities in USA for international students from non-native English is proving English proficiency through TOEFL and other equivalent proficiency exams. Therefore, the importance of testing English language proficiency while planning to pursue further education abroad cannot be neglected. 

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is an exam that tests your ability to use and understand the English language by measuring reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills. Performing well on the TOEFL can play a big role in accepting applicants, as it proves that the applicant has the required language skills for academic success. 

There are also numerous scholarships and other financial aid options available that may require a TOEFL score, which can hugely contribute to the application review process as an international student from a non-native English-speaking country. 

What Are General TOEFL Requirements for US Universities

Each university in the United States has its own TOEFL requirements, but a score above 100 is generally considered competitive. Some universities have specific score requirements for different sections of the test, such as reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Additionally, graduate programs may have higher score requirements compared to undergraduate programs.

Which Universities/Colleges in USA Accept TOEFL Scores 

Name of the University/College

TOEFL Score Requirements

Applicable Courses/Departments/Programs

Harvard University

80

Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

Stanford University

100

89

All Doctoral Programs

All Master’s programs

Master’s program in the School of Engineering

University of California, Berkeley

80 

90

All Undergraduate level programs

All Graduate level programs

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

90

All programs

Cornell University

100

All programs

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Are There US Universities That Accept Low TOEFL Scores

Yes, there are universities in the USA that accept lower TOEFL scores, typically in the range of 60-79 iBT, like the University of Idaho, which has an overall requirement of 70. These institutions often provide conditional admission, where students may need to take additional English language courses upon arrival.

Is TOEFL Home Edition Accepted By US Universities

Many US universities accept the TOEFL Home Edition, which was introduced to accommodate students who cannot access test centers due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is identical in content, format, and scoring to the traditional TOEFL iBT, making it a valid option for students. Some of the institutions accepting these scores include Macquarie University, University of Calgary, Northwestern University, Purdue University, and many others. 

What is Minimum and Maximum TOEFL Score Required for US Student Visa

A score above 100 is favorably perceived by top universities in the USA, like Cornell University, for instance. However, some universities take minimum TOEFL iBT scores of 70 as well, like the University of Idaho, for example. Hence, the minimum could be anywhere around 70-79, while the maximum could be 100 and upwards. 

How Should Students Choose US Universities Based on Their TOEFL Scores

Students should consider their TOEFL scores in conjunction with other factors such as academic achievements, program requirements, and personal preferences. It is essential to research each university's specific TOEFL requirements and compare them with their own scores to identify suitable institutions.

How Can Students Best Prepare for TOEFL to Study in US

To prepare for the TOEFL, students should practice all four sections of the test: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Utilizing official TOEFL practice materials, attending preparatory courses, and taking practice tests can help improve scores. Additionally, consistent practice in English, such as reading books, watching movies, and conversing with native speakers, can be beneficial.

Recommended Reads:

TOEFL Exam Eligibility Criteria TOEFL Exam Syllabus TOEFL Exam Dates 2022
TOEFL Exam Format TOEFL Exam Fees TOEFL Exam Registration

Read More About TOEFL:

Documents Required for TOEFL How to Prepare for TOEFL TOEFL Tips

Conclusion

As you can see, there are several TOEFL accepting universities in USA, and you can choose among the reputed ones, checking their admission and score requirements carefully before applying. The TOEFL is one of the most popular English language proficiency tests, and you can crack the same route towards getting into your chosen institutions in the country. 

Important Resources For GRE/GMAT Exams

GRE Exam Registration

raduate Record Examination (GRE) is one of the biggest and most popular global tests held by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). It is a standardized examination for entry into courses like MBA, MS, and others at universities worldwide./

GRE Registration

GRE Exam Dates for 2023

Booking GRE exam dates 2023 is a simple procedure. You can register by paying US$213 (approx. INR 15,700) and providing your valid passport copy or relevant ID./

GRE Exam Dates

GRE Exam Fees

The GRE exam fee in India is around $213 with effect from 1st July 2023. The examination fee in many other countries is $205 while the GRE exam fee for India is the same as countries like Turkey, Australia, China, and Nigeria. The fee for the GRE Subject /

GRE Exam Fee

Frequently Asked Questions

Which universities accept TOEFL in the USA?

There are many universities that accept TOEFL in the USA. Some of the top names include Yale University, the University of Washington, Cornell University, Harvard University, and Stanford University.

How much TOEFL score is required for the USA?

A good TOEFL score for studying in the USA is usually above 100. However, getting 79-80 is considered sufficient for admission into good universities or colleges. However, top colleges require scores in the 90-100 brackets as well.

Does USA accept the TOEFL test for student visas?

Yes, before you apply for the student visa, you will have to gain acceptance into a course in the USA. You will have to demonstrate your proficiency in English with the TOEFL iBT or any equivalent test.

Which is better for the USA- IELTS or TOEFL?

The TOEFL is the commonly accepted English language proficiency test in the USA. However, the IELTS is also accepted by most universities here. American universities are more inclined towards TOEFL, while IELTS is more popular in other global regions. However, you can take any of these two tests for determining your proficiency in the English language.

Which universities accept a 75 TOEFL score in the USA?

Some universities that accept a 75 TOEFL score include California State University, Northridge, Arizona State University, and the University of Toledo.

Which US universities accept TOEFL scores for master's programs?

Many universities accept TOEFL scores for master's programs, including Harvard University, Stanford University, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), often with specific score requirements. 

Kanika Pruthi

Sr. Content Writer & Study Abroad Expert

Kanika has 5+ years of experience as a writer and content developer. She has written for a wide range of industry verticals, including hospitality, restaurants, non-profits, finance, IT, HR, technology, payroll, and education. She has worked as a creator for a few leading companies and has also helped brands grow through her creative writing.

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The above tips are the Author's experiences. upGrad does not guarantee scores or admissions.