Minimum TOEFL iBT® Score for Undergraduate Admissions in USA

"Check the minimum TOEFL score for undergraduate admission in the USA, QS World Rankings 2025, and essential admission requirements."
Key Highlights
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 -100. Explore 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.
Additional Resources:
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