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Minimum TOEFL Score Required for University of Waikato

Minimum TOEFL iBT® Score Required for University of Waikato

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"Learn about the TOEFL score requirements, general admission criteria, and how to prepare for the application process to the University of Waikato for international students."

The University of Waikato in New Zealand is a leading institution that welcomes students from across the globe. For international applicants, proving English language proficiency is essential, as all courses are taught in English. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is one of the most recognized tests for this purpose. 

So, let's learn about the Minimum TOEFL Score Required for the University of Waikato, along with the general admission requirements, strategies to achieve the required TOEFL score, and step-by-step guidance on how to send your TOEFL scores to the university.

Minimum TOEFL Score Required for University of Waikato

The University of Waikato has specific TOEFL iBT® score requirements for different programs, varying by level of study. Below is a breakdown of the minimum scores needed for various qualifications offered by the university: 

Level Of Study

Minimum TOEFL iBT score

CertAttainFoundSt

46 with a writing score of 14

International Diploma

46 with a Writing score of 14

Diploma in Postgraduate Preparation - Pre-Masters

80 with a Writing score of 21

All undergraduate qualifications, all graduate certificates, and all graduate diplomas, except for LLB, BNurs, Initial Teacher Education (ITE) qualifications, and any other graduate programmes

80 with a Writing score of 21

LLB

90 with a Writing score of 21

BNurs

90 with a Writing score of 21

MNursPrac

98 with a Writing score of 24

all Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programmes (BTchg, GradDipTchg, PGDipTchg) and MTchgLn

Overall score of 98

Listening - 24 

Reading - 24

Writing - 27

Speaking – 23


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General Admission Requirements for the University of Waikato for International Students

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to the University of Waikato, including academic qualifications, English proficiency, and visa guidelines: 

Requirement

Details

Academic Qualifications

Completion of secondary education equivalent to New Zealand's University Entrance standard. Specific requirements vary by country. For instance, Indian students are generally required to have an average high school grade point average of 80% and a minimum English score of 65%.

English Language Proficiency

TOEFL iBT score of 80 with a writing score of 21.

Application Process

Applications are submitted online through the university's application portal.

Supporting Documents

Required documents include academic transcripts, proof of English language proficiency, a copy of passport, and any other program-specific requirements.

Visa Requirements

International students must obtain a student visa to study in New Zealand. Proof of sufficient funds and health insurance are also required.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Students with previous tertiary or non-formal education may apply for credit recognition.

How to Prepare for TOEFL to Meet the University of Waikato’s 80+ Score Requirement

The University of Waikato requires international students to achieve a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80, with a Writing score of at least 21 for most undergraduate programs, graduate certificates, and diplomas. If you're aiming for this score, here’s how to prepare effectively:

1. Master the TOEFL Format

  • Understand the four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
  • Learn the question types and practice under timed conditions.

You might find this helpful : TOEFL iBT® Exam Pattern and Syllabus 2025

2. Focus on Writing (Target: 21+)

  • Write structured essays with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
  • Use proper grammar, varied sentence structures, and transition words.
  • Practice writing opinion and integrated essays using official TOEFL prompts.

3. Improve Reading Comprehension

  • Read academic articles, news reports, and research papers daily.
  • Focus on understanding main ideas, vocabulary in context, and inferences.
  • Take notes while reading and practice summarizing key points.

4. Enhance Listening Skills

  • Listen to university lectures, TED Talks, and podcasts to get used to academic English.
  • Practice note-taking by identifying key ideas and details.
  • Answer TOEFL-style listening questions to test your comprehension.

5. Develop Clear and Confident Speaking

  • Practice responding to TOEFL speaking prompts within 45-60 seconds.
  • Focus on fluency, pronunciation, and clear organization of ideas.
  • Record yourself and compare your answers with sample high-scoring responses.

6. Take Full-Length TOEFL Practice Tests

  • Simulate real test conditions by taking timed practice tests.
  • Identify weak areas and work on improving them.
  • Review answer explanations to understand mistakes.

7. Use Official TOEFL Preparation Materials

  • Study with ETS TOEFL practice books, official sample tests, and online courses.
  • Use online TOEFL prep platforms to get additional practice.

Looking to boost your TOEFL score?
Sharpen your skills with our TOEFL Practice Tests , designed by experts!

8. Build a Study Plan and Stay Consistent

  • Dedicate at least 4-6 weeks to TOEFL preparation.
  • Allocate specific time to each section and practice daily.
  • Set realistic improvement goals and track progress.

How to Send Your TOEFL Score to the University of Waikato

If you are applying to the University of Waikato, you need to send your TOEFL iBT score directly from ETS (the organisation that conducts TOEFL). Follow these steps to ensure your score reaches the university on time:

1. Log in to Your ETS Account: Visit the ETS TOEFL website and sign in to your account.

2. Go to ‘Send Scores’: Find the option to send scores under your TOEFL test history.

3. Select the University of Waikato: Enter University of Waikato in the search bar or use the institution code.

4. Choose Score Recipients: You can send scores to up to four universities for free if you select them before taking the test. If you didn’t select Waikato earlier, you can still send your scores later for an additional fee.

5. Confirm and Pay (if applicable): If you are sending scores after test day, pay the fee (USD 25 per report). Review your selected institutions and submit your request.

6. Wait for Score Processing: ETS sends TOEFL scores electronically, and universities usually receive them in 4-10 days. The University of Waikato will process your score once it arrives.

I hope this blog on the Minimum TOEFL Score Required for University of Waikato has helped clarify the requirements. With the right preparation, you can achieve the necessary score. Good luck on your journey to studying at Waikato!

Also Read:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the TOEFL score requirement for postgraduate programs at the University of Waikato?

The minimum TOEFL score for postgraduate programs at the University of Waikato is 80 with a writing score of 21. However, for specialised programs such as MNursPrac, a score of 98 with specific sectional score is required for the application process.

Can I use a TOEFL score from another university application for the University of Waikato or do I have to take the test again?

You can use your previous TOEFL score but you need to make sure that it is valid at the time of application. Since the scores are valid for only two years, you need to check the validity before sending in the application.

How can I improve my TOEFL scores?

It is necessary to practice regularly while focusing on each section individually. Not only that but you can also take full-length practice test papers so that you will be familiar with the academic setting and the format of the test.

Is there any timeline when I have to take the TOEFL exam?

The TOEFL exam is offered all round the year for which you can register and choose a convenient date and time for the same. You can look for the nearest test centre where you can travel easily. However, check with the application deadline so that you can plan on the time when you could give the exam which is at least two to three months earlier.

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