TOEFL Score Required for Erasmus Mundus Joint Programs

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMDs) are highly competitive and prestigious international graduate programs funded by the EU. Since these programs involve studying in English across multiple countries, they require applicants to demonstrate solid English proficiency. Most accept TOEFL iBT® scores from candidates whose first language is not English.

Let’s explore the typical TOEFL requirements across popular Erasmus Mundus programs in 2025—QEM, GEM, STEPS, TRIBOS+, EMJM Imaging, and others.

QEM (Quantitative Economics and Finance)

QEM, a rigorous EMJMD in economics and finance, requires:

• Minimum TOEFL iBT: 76
  
  
• Acceptable formats: Computer-Based (230) or Paper-Based (550)
  
  
• No section score breakdown specified, but overall fluency is expected
  
  

A TOEFL score at or above 80 makes you a stronger candidate for this competitive and data-focused master's course.

GEM (Global EM Joint Master in Engineering and Manufacturing)

GEM targets future technical leaders and expects:

• Minimum TOEFL iBT: 90, with at least 21 in Speaking
  
  
• Scores older than 2 years are not accepted
  
  
• MyBest scores are not accepted
  
  

Scoring above 95 gives a good edge, indicating academic readiness for engineering studies.

STEPS (Sustainable Thermal Energy Processing Systems)

STEPS, an engineering-focused EMJMD, lists:

• Minimum TOEFL iBT: 79, with sectional requirements:
  
  
• Writing ≥ 17
  
  
• Reading ≥ 18
  
  
• Speaking ≥ 20
  
  

Meeting these minima is essential; a higher overall score shows stronger preparation for technical coursework.

TRIBOS+ (Tribology and Surface Engineering)

This EMJMD combines tribology studies across several European universities. TOEFL criteria include:

• Minimum TOEFL iBT: 92
  
  
• Minimum section scores: Listening 21, Reading 21, Speaking 23, Writing 22
  
  
• Scores must be valid at least until October intake
  
  

Aiming for 95+ helps secure both admission and scholarship eligibility.

EMJM Imaging & Related Programs

Imaging, public policy, and other specialist EMJMDs often require:

• Minimum TOEFL iBT: 78–93
  
  
• Example: EMJMD Imaging requires iBT 78
  
  
• Tourism and public policy programs may require around 90–93 iBT
  
  

Check specific program pages, but preparing for 90+ ensures coverage.

i-MESC (Energy, Materials & Sustainability)

i‑MESC requires:

• Minimum TOEFL iBT: 87
  
  
• Paper-based (580) or Computer-based (237) accepted
  
  
• Applicants may be exempt if their higher education was entirely in English
  
  

Scoring above 90 enhances candidates’ competitiveness.

GLODEP (Globalisation, Development & Planning)

• Minimum TOEFL iBT: 95
  
  
• Paper score equivalent: 577
  
  
• Only high-level English proficiency (CEFR C1) is accepted
  
  

A strong result ensures readiness for complex global development topics.

Euroculture Joint Master

Euroculture requires:

• Minimum TOEFL iBT: 93
  
  
• Home Edition accepted (but not test simulators or indicator scores)
  
  
• No section breakdown provided
  
  

Aiming for 95+ ensures eligibility and strengthens the application.

Why Scores Vary Across Erasmus Mundus Programs

1. Discipline Focus
   
   

• Technical and economics programs may accept lower scores (79–90).
  
  
• Policy, culture, and planning tracks demand higher scores (90+).
  
  

• Programs requiring thesis work or intensive writing/discussion expect higher scores.
  
  

• Higher scores can impact your chances of securing an Erasmus scholarship.
  
  

Tips to Hit the Required TOEFL Score

Here’s how you can aim well above the minimum thresholds:

1. Know Your Target
   
   

• Choose your program and aim at least 5–10 points above the minimum.
  
  

• Technical programs: focus on Reading & Writing.
  
  
• Policy and social science programs: focus on Speaking & Writing.
  
  

• Use official TOEFL resources with section timers and real prompts.
  
  

• Build stamina with full-length practice under test conditions.
  
  

• Use speech samples from program subject matter; self-review or peer feedback helps.
  
  

• Practice introductory thesis paragraphs and integrated writing like Integrated Writing Task 2.
  
  

• Register for the test 3–4 months before deadlines to allow a retake if required.
  
  

Summary Table – Sample TOEFL Requirements

I hope this blog on TOEFL requirements for Erasmus Mundus Joint Master programs gave you clarity and direction. Score cut-offs range from 76 to 95 iBT depending on the program’s discipline and academic rigor. Aim 5–10 points higher than the minimum to strengthen both your eligibility and scholarship potential.

With consistent practice, strategic section focus, and test readiness planning, you’re well on your way to a successful Erasmus Mundus application.