TOEFL iBT® Scores Needed for AI/ML Courses Abroad

"Planning to study AI or ML abroad? Here's the TOEFL score you need and how it fits into your tech-focused academic journey."
Key Highlights
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are among the fastest-growing fields in today’s digital world. Universities across the USA, UK, Canada, Germany, and other top study-abroad destinations offer cutting-edge AI & ML programs, attracting international students who want to build careers in data science, automation, and robotics. Since most of these programs are taught in English, proving English proficiency is a must. The TOEFL iBT is one of the most widely accepted exams, and your score plays a big role in securing admission.
In this blog, we’ll explore the minimum TOEFL score requirements for AI & ML courses abroad, general admission requirements, top universities, and tips to achieve a competitive score.
Minimum TOEFL Score Requirements for AI & ML Programs Abroad
Different countries and universities have varying TOEFL score expectations. While the minimum ranges between 79–100, top AI & ML programs usually prefer higher scores for competitive admission. Here’s a quick overview:
Country |
Minimum TOEFL iBT Score |
Competitive Range |
USA |
80 |
95–105 |
UK |
79 |
90–100 |
Canada |
83 |
90–100 |
Germany |
79 |
85–95 |
Australia |
79 |
90–100 |
Top Universities Offering AI & ML Programs with TOEFL Requirements
If you’re planning to pursue AI & ML abroad, here are some of the most popular universities and their TOEFL score expectations:
University |
Country |
Minimum TOEFL iBT Score |
Stanford University |
USA |
100 |
Carnegie Mellon University |
USA |
102 |
University of Toronto |
Canada |
89 |
University of Cambridge |
UK |
100 |
Technical University of Munich (TUM) |
Germany |
88 |
Australian National University |
Australia |
85 |
General Admission Requirements for AI & ML Courses
TOEFL is just one part of the admission process. To get into AI & ML programs, you’ll also need to meet these general requirements:
Requirement |
Details |
Academic Background |
Bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, engineering, or related fields. For undergrad, strong grades in math and science. |
TOEFL iBT Score |
Minimum 79–100; competitive programs expect 95+. |
GRE/GMAT (for PG) |
Many universities require GRE scores for MS in AI/ML. |
Coding Knowledge |
Strong programming skills in Python, R, Java, or C++ are often expected. |
Letters of Recommendation |
Usually 2–3 letters from professors or professionals in tech. |
Statement of Purpose (SOP) |
Explains your interest in AI/ML, career goals, and research areas. |
Resume / CV |
Showcasing projects, internships, and technical skills. |
Portfolio (if applicable) |
For some programs, a portfolio of ML/AI projects can strengthen your application. |
Why TOEFL is Important for AI & ML Courses Abroad
Studying AI and ML requires not only technical knowledge but also excellent communication skills. Professors expect students to write research papers, present findings, and participate in group projects. A strong TOEFL score shows that you can:
- Understand complex research articles and datasets.
- Follow technical lectures and discussions.
- Explain projects clearly during presentations.
- Write research-based essays and reports.
This is why universities often set higher TOEFL cutoffs for AI & ML programs compared to general courses.
Tips to Score High in TOEFL for AI & ML Admissions
Securing admission in AI & ML abroad requires strong preparation for TOEFL. Here are some detailed tips to help you score well:
1. Build a Technical Vocabulary
Since AI & ML programs involve scientific and mathematical content, practice reading technical blogs, coding articles, and research papers. This will help you handle the academic vocabulary used in TOEFL Reading and Listening sections.
2. Focus on Reading Academic Texts
TOEFL Reading passages are similar to research-based texts. Read AI journals, case studies, and technology magazines to practice identifying main arguments, data interpretations, and inferences.
3. Practice Listening to Tech Lectures
AI & ML programs often include lectures filled with technical terms. To prepare, listen to university lectures, AI/ML podcasts, or TED Talks. Practice summarizing the main points and supporting details to strengthen Listening skills.
4. Improve Speaking with Project Explanations
The TOEFL Speaking section tests your ability to explain ideas clearly. Practice speaking about your AI or coding projects in simple English. Record yourself explaining how a machine learning model works and check for clarity, grammar, and fluency.
5. Write Structured Essays
TOEFL Writing often requires integrating reading and listening into a well-organized essay. Practice writing on AI-related topics, such as “Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Jobs” or “Ethics of Machine Learning.” This helps you get comfortable with academic writing.
6. Take Mock Tests Regularly
Simulate real exam conditions by timing yourself. Full-length TOEFL mock tests help build speed, endurance, and familiarity with the test format.
7. Track Weak Areas and Improve
After every practice test, analyze your performance. If Listening is weaker than Reading, dedicate extra practice to lectures and conversations.
8. Use Official TOEFL Prep Materials
Stick to ETS-approved TOEFL resources. These replicate the exam format better than general English books and prepare you for integrated tasks.
AI and ML are shaping the future of technology, and studying these fields abroad can open doors to global career opportunities. To secure admission, aim for a TOEFL iBT score between 95–105, especially for top universities in the USA, UK, and Canada. Combine this with a strong academic background, coding expertise, and research interests, and you’ll be well-prepared for admission to the best AI & ML programs worldwide.
Featured Articles

TOEFL Format Undergoing Significant Changes in January 2026
The TOEFL iBT format is changing in January 2026 with a smarter structure and easier scoring. Here’s everything you need to know to stay ahead.
August 06, 2025
Minimum TOEFL Score Requirement for South Korea Student Visa
Understand the TOEFL requirement for a South Korea student visa and English-taught programs, and prepare your application for success.
September 14, 2025
Minimum TOEFL Score for Study Visa in Poland
Understand TOEFL score requirements for securing a Poland student visa and joining top universities offering English-taught programs.
September 14, 2025
TOEFL Requirements for Animation & VFX Programs Abroad
Discover TOEFL score requirements for studying Animation and VFX abroad, and learn how to meet them for top creative universities.
September 14, 2025