TOEFL Requirements for Student Exchange Programs in Asia

As international exchange programs regain momentum, Asia has become a top destination for students seeking exposure to different educational systems, cultures, and languages. Universities across Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, India, and other Asian nations often require proof of English proficiency, especially for English-taught courses.

TOEFL scores provide a reliable and standardised measure for assessing incoming exchange students’ readiness to study in English. Understanding these requirements helps ensure your application is competitive and complete.

Let’s explore the universities in Asia that require TOEFL scores for exchange programs - how much, why, and how to prepare.

Japanese Exchange Programs

These programs often require moderate to high TOEFL scores depending on course intensity.

• Tohoku University (English-based tracks)
  Applicants typically need TOEFL iBT 79 or PBT 550 to enrol in English-taught exchange courses .

• Akita International University (AIU)
  Exchange candidates may be accepted with iBT 61 or PBT 500 .

• University of Tokyo’s GraSPP (Campus Asia track)
  For exchange students: iBT 80 is required; dual-degree students must score iBT 100 .

Taiwanese Exchange Programs

Taiwanese universities generally set TOEIC or IELTS scores, but TOEFL equivalents apply.

• Asia University (Taiwan)
  Requires ITP 500, TOEIC 650,  Equivalent TOEFL iBT scores are estimated to be 60–70 .

Requirements in Hong Kong and Mainland China

English-taught programs in this region require consistent TOEFL scores between 79–93.

• Hong Kong Baptist University
  Exchange students must score TOEFL iBT 79+ .

• Polytechnic University of Hong Kong
  Requires iBT 80+ or IELTS 6.0.

• Other Hong Kong/China universities (CUHK, HKUST, etc.)
  Typically expect TOEFL iBT 80–93 for English-taught exchange programs .

South Korean Exchange Programs

Top universities in South Korea typically require mid-to-high TOEFL scores.

• Seoul National University: iBT 85+

• Korea University: iBT 71+

• Yonsei University: iBT 79+

• Sungkyunkwan University, Ewha Womans University: iBT 80+

• Sejong University: iBT 71+

Indian Exchange Program Requirements

India’s premier universities often set higher TOEFL benchmarks for exchange students.

• IIT Bombay: iBT 95+

• Manipal University: iBT 90+

• Amrita, Christ University: iBT 79+

• SP Jain, University of Delhi: iBT 70+

• University of Mumbai: Certain programs require iBT 110.

Other Asian Destinations

Countries like Malaysia and Vietnam also require TOEFL scores for exchange students.

• Universiti Brunei Darussalam: Accepts TOEFL PBT 550+ (~iBT 79)

• Ho Chi Minh International University: Accepts TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent .

Why TOEFL Requirements Differ

Exchange-level TOEFL scores vary due to several factors:

1. Course intensity and format (e.g., single semester vs. dual-degree)

2. Language of instruction (English vs. bilingual)

3. University prestige and standards

4. Academic discipline (e.g., humanities vs. STEM)

These differences mean your TOEFL target score depends heavily on your chosen program.

How to Prepare Yourself

To meet these requirements and apply confidently:

1. Choose your target universities: Note their specific TOEFL cutoff scores.

2. Plan your preparation timeline: Allow 3–6 months for focused study.

3. Build academic vocabulary and reading skills: Study discipline-related materials.

4. Do full TOEFL practice tests: Develop stamina and timing awareness.

5. Work on Writing and Speaking: Practice tasks mirroring exchange-level coursework.

6. Send your TOEFL reports early: Use ETS’s free score report service and note each university’s code.

Suggested Timeline Example

Here’s a typical preparatory timeline for exchange program applicants:

• 6 months before: Research target universities and their TOEFL requirements

• 5 months before: Begin TOEFL prep—vocabulary, reading, writing, listening

• 4 months before: Take a full practice test; identify weak areas

• 3 months before: Enrol for the TOEFL and start intensive prep

• 2 months before: Take the actual TOEFL exam

• After scoring: Send TOEFL reports to universities; apply for exchange

I hope this blog on TOEFL requirements for exchange programs in Asia clarified what scores you need and how to prepare. Requirements range widely , from iBT 61 (Akita) to 110 (Mumbai)—so it’s essential to tailor your study plan. With clear goals and structured preparation, you’ll meet exchange standards and set yourself up for academic success abroad.