Can I Use TOEFL iBT® Score for Immigration Purposes in 2025?

Yes, you can use your TOEFL score for immigration purposes in 2025, but it largely depends on the country and visa type you're applying for. Whether you’re planning to study abroad or seeking permanent residency, many countries accept TOEFL iBT® as proof of English proficiency. Let’s explore how TOEFL fits into immigration processes, the minimum score requirements, and how to make the most of it.

Countries That Accept TOEFL Scores for Immigration

Here are the major countries where TOEFL iBT scores are accepted for immigration or visa applications: 

United States (Student Visas Only)

The United States primarily accepts TOEFL scores for F-1 student visa applications. For general immigration or work visas, TOEFL is not typically used. However, universities across the U.S. require TOEFL as part of their admissions process, which then supports your student visa.

• Minimum Score: Varies by university (typically 80–100 on the iBT)
• Use Case: F-1 student visa (non-immigrant), supporting university admission

Example: Stanford University requires a score of 100 iBT, while smaller colleges may accept 80+.

United Kingdom (Student Route Visa)

The UK Home Office accepts TOEFL iBT scores for Student Route visas if taken at a Secure English Language Test (SELT)-approved centre. While it's not accepted for other visa categories, it plays a major role in university admissions.

• Minimum Score for Immigration: 72 iBT
  
• Use Case: Student visa (for higher education programs)

Tip: Always ensure you take the test at a UKVI-approved TOEFL test centre.

Canada (Study Permits)

Canada accepts TOEFL iBT scores for study permits and university admission. While it’s not typically accepted for Express Entry or permanent residency, it is widely used for international student migration.

• Minimum Score: 80 iBT (varies by institution)
• Use Case: Study permit applications and DLI admissions

Example: University of Toronto often requires a 93–100 TOEFL iBT score.

Australia (Student & Skilled Migration)

Australia accepts TOEFL iBT scores for student visas, general skilled migration, and some employer-sponsored visa categories. As of May 5, 2024, TOEFL is officially recognised again for immigration purposes.

• Minimum Score: 80 iBT (specific scores vary by visa)
• Note: Scores from tests taken between Jul 26, 2023 – May 4, 2024, are not valid for visa purposes.

Example: For General Skilled Migration (subclass 189), you typically need a minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking, and 21 in Writing.

New Zealand

TOEFL scores are accepted for both study visas and residency pathways in New Zealand. They are used for university admissions and as evidence of English ability in immigration assessments.

• Minimum Score: 80 iBT or equivalent, depending on the visa
• Use Case: Study visa and residency under skilled migration

Tip: Check the New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA) list for updated language requirements.

Validity of TOEFL Scores for Immigration

Here are the key points to remember:

• TOEFL iBT scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.
• For 2025 applications, your TOEFL test must be taken in 2023 or later.
• Always ensure that your test is taken at a recognised test centre (especially important for UK and Australian immigration).

Steps to Use TOEFL Score for Immigration

Here are the steps to ensure your TOEFL score helps in your immigration application:

1. Confirm Visa Category Requirements: Visit the official immigration website of your destination country and see whether TOEFL is accepted.

2. Register at an Approved Centre: For countries like the UK and Australia, use only government-approved TOEFL test centres.

3. Aim Higher Than the Minimum: Aiming for 90+ can make your application stronger and broaden your university or visa options.

4. Send Scores on Time: Use the ETS platform to send scores to designated institutions or immigration authorities.

5. Pair With Other Documents: TOEFL is just one part of your application. Make sure to include transcripts, identity documents, and proof of funds.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using TOEFL for Immigration

Here are the five common mistakes applicants make when relying on TOEFL scores for immigration:

1. Using an Expired Score: Immigration authorities won’t accept scores older than two years.

2. Taking TOEFL at a Non-Approved Centre: Especially in the UK or Australia, using a non-SELT centre makes your score invalid.

3, Not Meeting Specific Visa Subclass Requirements
Skilled migration or PR routes may have different minimums than student routes.

4. Not Checking Country Updates: TOEFL acceptance policies may change. Always check the latest visa guidelines.

5. Thinking It’s Accepted for All Visas: Some countries accept TOEFL only for education (not for work or PR. Know your visa type.)

I hope this blog on using TOEFL scores for immigration in 2025 has cleared your doubts and helped you understand where and how your scores are valid. With the right planning and preparation, your TOEFL result can be the key to unlocking international opportunities for study and migration.

Additional Reads: 

• What Your TOEFL Exam Scores Mean
• How to Send Your TOEFL Scores to Colleges?
• One Month Study Plan for TOEFL Exam
• TOEFL Test Day: What to Expect and How to Prepare