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Minimum TOEFL Score for Undergraduate Admissions in USA

Minimum TOEFL iBT® Score for Undergraduate Admissions in USA

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"Check the minimum TOEFL score for undergraduate admission in the USA, QS World Rankings 2025, and essential admission requirements."

The minimum TOEFL score for undergraduate admission in the USA is typically 80, but requirements vary by university. For example, New York University requires a TOEFL iBT® score of 100 for most programs, while University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) accepts a minimum of 83, and Penn State University sets its requirement at 80 or higher. Each institution has its own standards, so it’s essential to check the specific requirements of your target universities.

So, let’s explore the Minimum TOEFL Score for Undergraduate Admissions in the USA, along with admission requirements and how to achieve the required score.

Minimum TOEFL Score for Undergraduate Admissions in USA

Here are the minimum TOEFL score requirements for undergraduate admissions in the USA, along with the QS World University Rankings 2025 for top universities:

University Name 

QS World Ranking 2025 

Overall TOEFL iBT® Score

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

1

90

Harvard University 

4

100

Stanford University 

6

89

California Institute of Technology (Caltech) 

10

100

University of Pennsylvania 

11

100

University of California, Berkeley (UCB) 

12

80

Cornell University

16

100

University of Chicago

21

100

Princeton University 

22

108

Yale University 

23

100

Johns Hopkins University

32

100

Columbia University

34

100

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

42

87

New York University (NYU)

43

100 

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor 

44

88

Northwestern University

50

71

Carnegie Mellon University

58

102

Duke University 

61

90

University of Texas 

66

79

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

69

79-102


Check TOEFL Score Requirements for USA Study Visa and fulfill the requirements to secure your study opportunity. 

General Admission Requirements for Undergraduate Programs in the USA (2025)

Here are the general admission requirements for undergraduate programs in the USA for 2025, covering academic qualifications, test scores, and other key criteria: 

Admission Requirement

Description

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Applicants must have completed secondary education, typically evidenced by a high school diploma or an equivalent credential.

Academic Transcripts

Submission of official transcripts detailing courses taken and grades received throughout high school. A strong Grade Point Average (GPA) is often crucial, with competitive institutions seeking higher GPAs.

Standardized Test Scores

Many institutions require standardized test scores as part of the application. The SAT and ACT are the most commonly accepted tests. Some colleges have adopted test-optional policies; however, submitting strong scores can enhance an application.

English Language Proficiency

Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency in English. A minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80 is commonly required, though some institutions may have higher or lower thresholds.

Letters of Recommendation

Typically, 1-3 letters from teachers or counselors are required, providing insight into the applicant's academic abilities and character.

Personal Statement or Essays

Applicants are often required to submit essays or personal statements. These writings allow candidates to showcase their personality, experiences, and motivations beyond academic achievements.

Extracurricular Activities

Involvement in extracurricular activities, such as clubs, sports, volunteer work, or part-time employment, is considered. These activities demonstrate leadership, commitment, and time-management skills.

Application Fee

Most applications require a non-refundable fee, typically ranging from $50 to $100. Fee waivers are often available for students with financial need.


Find List of Universities in USA Accepting TOEFL Scores Between 90 -100Explore more options here!

How to Achieve 80+ in TOEFL for Undergraduate Admission in the USA

Scoring 80+ on the TOEFL iBT is essential for meeting the English proficiency requirements of many U.S. universities. Here are some practical tips to help you achieve this score:

1. Understand the TOEFL Exam Structure

Familiarize yourself with the four sections—Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Knowing the format will help you manage time effectively and avoid surprises on test day.

2. Improve Your Reading Skills with Academic Texts

Read articles from reputable sources like The New York Times, National Geographic, and academic journals. Focus on understanding the main idea, supporting details, and unfamiliar vocabulary.

3. Strengthen Your Listening Comprehension

Listen to podcasts, lectures, and news reports in English. Try summarizing the key points and noting down important details, just like in the TOEFL Listening section.

4. Practice Speaking Clearly and Confidently

For the Speaking section, practice answering TOEFL-style questions. Record yourself, focus on pronunciation, fluency, and coherence, and seek feedback from a tutor or language partner.

5. Develop Strong Writing Skills

Practice writing clear, well-structured essays with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Use examples to support your arguments and ensure your grammar and vocabulary are accurate.

6. Take Full-Length Practice Tests Under Timed Conditions

Simulate real exam conditions by taking full-length TOEFL practice tests. This helps improve time management and builds endurance for the actual test.

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7.Expand Your Vocabulary and Use It Naturally

Learn academic words and phrases commonly used in TOEFL. Use new vocabulary in your writing and speaking to demonstrate strong language skills.

8. Focus on Grammar and Sentence Structure

Make sure your sentences are grammatically correct. Practice writing and speaking using complex sentence structures while keeping them natural and easy to understand.

9. Manage Your Time Effectively

Each TOEFL section is timed, so practice answering questions quickly and accurately. Avoid spending too much time on one question to ensure you complete all sections.

10. Stay Consistent and Practice Regularly

Set a study schedule and practice daily. Regular exposure to English through reading, listening, speaking, and writing will help you improve naturally over time.

I hope this blog on the Minimum TOEFL Score for Undergraduate Admissions in the USA has helped you understand the score requirements and admission criteria. Achieving a 90+ TOEFL score can strengthen your application and improve your chances of acceptance. Stay consistent with your preparation, and you’ll be on your way to studying at a top U.S. university.

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