TOEFL Requirements for MBA and Business Programmes Worldwide

The TOEFL exam is one of the most recognised assessments for measuring proficiency level in English for non-native speakers. The scores assesses an individual to identify how well prepared a student would be for an academic setting wherein the primary medium of instruction would be English. For MBA programmes or graduate programs related to Business, the TOEFL score is considered as an important factor to further the application process. 

In this blog, we will dive into how TOEFL scores matter for MBA and Business programmes worldwide while giving the broader TOEFL requirements of such programmes and suggest a few tips for the applicants to achieve those requirements.

Why is the TOEFL Exam Important for MBA and Business Programmes Worldwide?

The TOEFL test scores are accepted in the entire world for MBA and Business Programmes. This is due to the need for an applicant to be assessed if they can adjust according to the academic setting to excel the course. The following are some of the reasons as to why the TOEFL test is important for such courses.

1. It acts as a proof of English Proficiency Level which helps to determine how fast one can become a part of an advanced academic setting and is able to perform well in MBA programmes. There would be complex discussions, and debates, presentations, and written assignments which are the demands that one needs to fulfill to excel the course. Therefore, the TOEFL test is to understand the strengths of the students and ideate if they can succeed during the course, while working with others in the group, and also communicate with professional partners. 

2. An MBA student usually studies advanced business concepts and needs to understand business specific details such as textbooks, academic papers, case studies, and lectures. With a good TOEFL score, the student is assessed that they would have an easy understanding of these materials and perform well in tests and assigned essays. 

3. At these graduate universities, students are required to study and work in teams with others from different countries on a global business level. Therefore, effective communication skills are necessary for efficient project work in establishing networks with professionals for internship and employment opportunities during the programme. 

4. Since most top business colleges are very competitive, an international applicant needs to have the required skills to excel in the programme.

General TOEFL Requirements for MBA and Business Programmes

Certain universities want specific scores in TOEFL which are generally required because of individual school and different programme necessities. The common requirements in the TOEFL test scores among business schools are as follows: 

List of Universities With Minimum TOEFL Score for MBA and Business Programmes

Depending on the place or country you are applying for MBA and Business programmes, you have to be aware of the minimum TOEFL score requirements.

The table below suggests the list of universities along with the country it is based out of which mentions the specific TOEFL Score requirement for MBA and Business Programmes.

As different scores are required in different countries, it is suggested to be aware of the same while applying for MBA and Business Programmes.

How to Meet or Exceed TOEFL Requirements for MBA Programmes?

In order to meet the required TOEFL scores to apply for an MBA and Business Programmes worldwide, you must develop the necessary skills. It is advised to have a strategy in place to see an improvement in your TOEFL score. The following strategies can be helpful while you are preparing for the test.

1. Preparing early: Consider preparing for the TOEFL test months ahead of the application deadlines of your potential MBA programme. As preparation requires time to achieve a high score on the TOEFL, you must have sufficient time. This may include taking self-study classes, prep courses, or working with online resources to improve skills. 

2. Know the TOEFL Sections: The TOEFL exam is divided into four sections such as Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Each of these four sections examines a different language proficiency skill which are listed below. 

• Reading: Learn how to skim and scan the text for key details. This will make your answering of questions much quicker and easier. 
• Listening: Understanding main ideas, supporting details, and speakers' intentions are very important. Note-taking is another skill which you need to improve for this section. 
• Speaking: Practice clear and concise speaking with a structure in answers to speak fluently. 
• Writing: You need to develop your essay skills related to organisation skills, grammar, and coherence. 

3. Attempt Practice Tests: Full-length practice tests are essential to develop familiarity with the TOEFL format with time constraints in each section. Practice under timed conditions to improve speed along with accuracy. 

4. Academic Vocabulary: An MBA programme will require you to develop vocabulary words related to the business world. Study and practice business-specific vocabulary such as terms related to finance, marketing, management, and economics.