TOEFL for Dual-Degree Programs: What Students Should Know

Dual-degree programs offer students the opportunity to study two disciplines, often at two universities, sometimes in two countries, within a single academic track. These programs are especially appealing for students looking to build interdisciplinary expertise and expand their global exposure. However, applying to a dual-degree program often involves more than just meeting academic requirements.
Because many of these programs are hosted across international institutions, strong English proficiency becomes essential - this is where the TOEFL comes in. Whether it’s business and law, engineering and management, or public health and international relations, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to succeed in academic English across both institutions involved.

Why TOEFL Matters for Dual-Degree Programs

Here are the key reasons TOEFL plays a significant role in dual-degree applications:

1. Language Proficiency is Required by Both Institutions

In many dual-degree programs, you’ll be studying at two partner universities—often one in an English-speaking country and another where English is the medium of instruction. TOEFL scores may be required by both institutions to confirm your academic readiness.

• Example: A dual MBA/MPA program between a U.S. university and a European school may ask for minimum TOEFL scores aligned with their individual English language requirements.

2. High-Level Academic English Is Expected

Dual-degree programs are often more rigorous, requiring advanced reading, academic writing, and presentations across disciplines. TOEFL evaluates exactly these skills, making your score an indicator of whether you can manage complex coursework in two fields.

3. TOEFL Serves as a Standardised Requirement

With applicants coming from varied educational systems, TOEFL ensures all candidates are measured by the same global standard. Even if you studied in English-medium schools, many top universities still expect official TOEFL results as part of the dual-degree application.

TOEFL Score Requirements for Dual-Degree Programs

While requirements vary by university and course combination, most dual-degree programs accept the TOEFL iBT® and expect composite scores between 90–105, with minimum section scores depending on the program's intensity.

Here’s an example of typical TOEFL requirements across popular combinations:

Tip: Always check the requirements for both partner universities. Some may have slightly different TOEFL cutoffs, and you’ll need to meet the higher one.

When and How to Send TOEFL Scores

Since your application will go to two or more schools, plan carefully:

• Use TOEFL’s free score report option: ETS allows you to send scores to 4 institutions for free when registering.
  
  
• Send additional score reports if needed using the TOEFL dashboard (additional fees apply).
  
  
• Check each university's code: Use the correct institution codes to avoid delays.
  
  
• Confirm if the program uses a joint application portal (some do), where one score submission suffices.
  
  

Tip: Take the TOEFL 4–5 months before deadlines to leave time for retakes or additional reports if needed.

Preparing for TOEFL with a Dual-Degree Mindset

Your prep should focus on academic depth, clarity, and time management—qualities valued in dual-degree programs.

1. Focus on Integrated Skills

Many TOEFL tasks mirror what you’ll do in dual-degree coursework: reading research, listening to lectures, and writing or speaking responses. Sharpen these by:

• Reading academic articles across both subject areas
  
  
• Watching university lectures online
  
  
• Writing short essays comparing two topics
  
  

2. Strengthen Writing Structure and Tone

Writing is especially important for policy, legal, business, and humanities-related tracks. Practise:

• Structuring arguments clearly
  
  
• Using transitions for complex comparisons
  
  
• Avoiding repetitive phrasing
  
  

Use prompts from both academic areas you plan to study (e.g., “Compare economic and environmental priorities in urban planning”).

3. Simulate Exam Conditions Weekly

Use full-length TOEFL practice tests under timed conditions to:

• Build stamina
  
  
• Test accuracy under pressure
  
  
• Track section-specific improvement
  
  

Review mistakes weekly and adjust your strategies.

Examples of Dual-Degree Programs Accepting TOEFL

Here are a few well-known global dual-degree programs where TOEFL is required:

These programs demand strong communication skills, and your TOEFL performance often reflects how well you’ll handle their academic expectations.

I hope this blog on TOEFL for dual-degree programs helped you understand its importance in the application process. With two institutions often involved, a strong TOEFL score ensures you meet both academic and language expectations. Start early, know the score cutoffs, and prepare smart—your global academic journey is just a few steps away.