What is the fee of registering for the TOEFL iBT Paper Edition?

Applicants who choose to take the TOEFL iBT Paper Edition must pay an amount of INR 16,900 for registering, which is the same for TOEFL iBT.

How many times is the TOEFL iBT Home Edition conducted in a month?

The TOEFL iBT Paper Edition is offered once or twice every month.

As the TOEFL iBT exam is conducted in two sessions, do I have to book two dates or one?

You need to schedule two appointments when you register: one at your neighbourhood testing facility and the other at your house.

In some places, why is the duration of the first session of TOEFL iBT Paper Edition written as three and half hours? What is the actual duration?

The test duration at a centre is three hours. An additional thirty minutes is allocated for test administration tasks, such as admitting examinees, allowing them to input identifying information, and managing test materials.

Are there any special requirements for the Speaking section of the TOEFL iBT Paper Edition?

As the Speaking section is conducted from home, please ensure that you have the required setup for both the equipment and environment before registering. You will get the details from the official website.

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How to Apply for STEM Programs in Japan Using TOEFL Scores

How to Apply for STEM Programs in Japan Using TOEFL iBT® Scores

Akanksha Tripathi

4 min read

Updated On September 14, 2025

"Learn how to use TOEFL scores to apply for top science and engineering programs in Japan, with tips and university insights."

Key Highlights

TOEFL Score Requirements for STEM Programs in Japan
Admission Requirements for STEM Programs in Japan
How to Apply for STEM Programs in Japan Using TOEFL
Scholarships for STEM Programs in Japan
Tips to Achieve a High TOEFL Score for STEM Programs

Japan has become one of the top destinations for international students interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs. With globally recognized universities like The University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, and Tohoku University, studying STEM in Japan offers world-class education and exposure to innovation. For international applicants, proving English proficiency is essential, and TOEFL iBT is one of the most widely accepted tests. Let’s explore how you can apply for STEM programs in Japan using your TOEFL scores.

TOEFL Score Requirements for STEM Programs in Japan

Before applying, it is important to know the TOEFL iBT score range expected by top Japanese universities. While some accept a minimum of 79, competitive STEM programs usually expect higher scores.

University	Minimum TOEFL iBT Score	Competitive Range
University of Tokyo	90	95–100
Kyoto University	85	90–100
Tokyo Institute of Technology	79	85–95
Tohoku University	80	85–95

Admission Requirements for STEM Programs in Japan

Universities in Japan look at multiple factors beyond TOEFL scores. Here are the main admission requirements international students must fulfill:

Requirement	Details
Academic Records	High school diploma (for undergraduate) or Bachelor’s degree (for master’s) with strong grades in science and mathematics subjects.
TOEFL Scores	Minimum 79–100 depending on program and university. Higher scores recommended for competitive programs.
Standardized Tests	Some programs may ask for SAT/ACT (for undergraduate) or GRE (for postgraduate STEM).
Letters of Recommendation	Usually 2–3 academic references from teachers or professors.
Personal Statement / SOP	Explains interest in STEM, research goals, and why Japan is the preferred destination.
Research Proposal (for PG)	Required for master’s and PhD in science/engineering programs.
Other Language Requirements	TOPIK is not required, but basic Japanese skills are encouraged.

How to Apply for STEM Programs in Japan Using TOEFL

Once you meet the eligibility criteria, the next step is preparing your application. Here is the process most universities follow for STEM admissions:

1. Research Programs Early – Identify Japanese universities offering STEM courses in English.

2. Check TOEFL Cutoffs – Ensure your TOEFL iBT score meets or exceeds the minimum requirement.

3. Prepare Application Documents – Collect transcripts, TOEFL score report, recommendation letters, and SOP.

4. Apply Through University Portals – Most applications are submitted online. Some also accept via JASSO or MEXT.

5. Meet Deadlines – Applications usually open between November–January for fall intake.

6. Prepare for Interviews – Some STEM programs require online interviews.

Scholarships for STEM Programs in Japan

Funding your education is easier with scholarships. Here are some of the main options available for STEM students in Japan:

MEXT Scholarship – Covers tuition, airfare, and living costs.
JASSO Scholarship – Monthly stipend for international students.
University Scholarships – Offered by institutions like UTokyo, Kyoto University, and Tokyo Tech.

Tips to Achieve a High TOEFL Score for STEM Programs

Securing admission in STEM programs requires strong English skills. Here are some tips to improve your TOEFL performance:

1. Strengthen Academic Vocabulary

STEM programs in Japan use advanced academic English. You will encounter technical terms in lectures, textbooks, and assignments. Build your vocabulary by reading scientific journals, engineering blogs, and research articles. Make a list of common STEM-related terms and practice using them in sentences.

2. Improve Reading Skills with Research Articles

The TOEFL Reading section mirrors the type of content you’ll see in STEM classes. Practice reading research abstracts, case studies, and scientific reports. Focus on identifying the main argument, supporting details, and how experiments are explained. This will help you answer inference-based and detail-oriented questions.

3. Practice Active Listening

In STEM programs, lectures can be long and information-heavy. The Listening section of TOEFL tests your ability to follow such lectures. Train yourself by listening to TED Talks, academic podcasts, or recorded university lectures. Take structured notes with keywords, arrows, and abbreviations to capture the main ideas.

4. Develop Confident Speaking Skills

STEM students are often required to present research, explain experiments, or discuss technical projects. In the TOEFL Speaking section, practice explaining a scientific process or summarizing a lecture in clear English. Record yourself, listen back, and correct hesitations or unclear pronunciation. Confidence and clarity are more important than complex words.

5. Master Writing with Research-Based Essays

In the TOEFL Writing section, you may need to summarize a reading and lecture or write an independent essay. Since STEM studies demand frequent report writing, practice writing essays with clear structure: introduction, evidence, analysis, and conclusion. Use examples from science or technology to support your points.

6. Simulate Exam Conditions

Many students underestimate timing. TOEFL is not just about knowledge, it’s also about speed. Take full-length practice tests under real exam conditions. This helps build endurance and reduces anxiety on test day.

7. Use TOEFL-Specific Resources

Rely on authentic materials like The Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT or practice tests from ETS. General English books won’t prepare you for the integrated tasks (reading + listening + writing/speaking).

8. Track Your Progress Weekly

Set a target score (e.g., 95 for UTokyo) and monitor your improvement weekly. If one section lags, adjust your study plan instead of practicing all sections equally.

Applying for STEM programs in Japan using TOEFL scores is a step-by-step process. Aiming for a score between 90–100 will make your application competitive and improve scholarship chances. Along with TOEFL, prepare a strong academic profile, research proposal, and personal statement to maximize your chances of admission.