TOEFL Scores Required for Internships While Studying Abroad

When you're studying abroad, internships are a valuable way to gain real-world experience, expand your network, and enhance your resume. However, if English is not your first language, many internship providers - especially in English-speaking countries - will want evidence of your language skills. That’s where your TOEFL score can play an important role.

Let’s explore how TOEFL scores are used for internship applications, what’s expected, and how you can use your score to get ahead.

Why TOEFL Scores Matter for Internships Abroad

Here’s why TOEFL scores are sometimes requested or considered by companies and universities:

• Proof of communication ability: Internships require clear, confident English in meetings, emails, and collaboration.
  
  
• Compliance with visa or university rules: Some universities or exchange programs require proof of English proficiency before approving off-campus internships.
  
  
• Competitive edge: Including a strong TOEFL score can make your application more credible when competing with global candidates.
  
  
• Industry-specific requirements: Fields like journalism, law, or education may require stronger language proof due to the nature of the work.
  
  

Internship coordinators or HR professionals often view TOEFL scores as a verified benchmark, especially if your academic program is conducted in English but your background is not.

Common TOEFL Score Expectations for Internships

While internship providers rarely list TOEFL as a strict requirement like universities do, many expect you to demonstrate strong English skills. Here's a general guideline of what score ranges are considered acceptable:

You may not always be asked to submit a TOEFL score directly to the internship company—but it could be required by your university before approval.

Countries and Programs That May Ask for TOEFL Scores

Here are a few examples of countries or programs where TOEFL scores can impact your internship eligibility while studying abroad:

1. United States

Many universities in the U.S. allow international students to take up internships (via CPT or OPT). Some departments may require a TOEFL score above 90 to permit internship enrolment. Companies typically don’t ask directly but expect good communication during interviews.

2. Canada

In Canada, co-op and internship programs tied to universities sometimes set a minimum English proficiency bar. A TOEFL iBT score of 90 or above is often used to determine readiness, especially in research or client-facing roles.

3. Germany

For English-speaking internships in Germany, a TOEFL score above 80 is often accepted. Engineering or tech companies may require a minimum score in the Speaking and Writing sections (above 20).

4. Singapore

Singapore-based firms that accept international interns often seek candidates from English-medium universities. TOEFL scores above 90, especially in communication-heavy sectors, can be advantageous.

5. Japan and South Korea

Internships offered by international companies or in English-language roles often look for TOEFL scores above 85–90. Some university-based internships require students to prove proficiency using TOEFL or IELTS.

When to Include Your TOEFL Score in Internship Applications

Here’s when you should definitely include your TOEFL score in your resume, cover letter, or application:

• When the internship listing mentions English proficiency
  
  
• If your academic background is in a non-English medium
  
  
• When applying for internships in communication-heavy roles
  
  
• When working with international teams or clients
  
  
• When the internship is linked with your university, and the approval process requires proof of English fluency
  
  

Example line for your resume:
TOEFL iBT: 104 (Speaking: 27, Writing: 26) – Demonstrates fluency for client communications and technical writing

Tips to Use TOEFL to Strengthen Your Internship Application

Even if TOEFL isn’t directly required, it can still give you an advantage. Here’s how to use it smartly:

1. Highlight relevant sections
   Emphasise Speaking and Writing scores if the internship requires presentations, emailing, or content creation.
   
   
2. Include in your cover letter
   Mention your TOEFL score when you talk about your communication skills or readiness to work in an international environment.
   
   
3. Attach it in your university file
   If your internship is for credit, your department may ask for it. Keep it ready even if not listed publicly.
   
   
4. Use it in interviews
    If you’re nervous about your accent or fluency, mentioning your TOEFL Speaking score can boost confidence and credibility.

What If You Don’t Have a TOEFL Score Yet?

If you haven’t taken the TOEFL yet, but you're applying for internships abroad, here are some alternatives:

• Use university language proof: A letter stating that your course is in English may be acceptable in some cases.
  
  
• Take the TOEFL Essentials® test: For informal or short-term internships, a TOEFL Essentials score might be sufficient.
  
  
• Provide alternative tests: IELTS or Duolingo scores are also accepted by some universities or firms.
  
  
• Showcase other English certifications: Cambridge, CEFR level documents, or previous study abroad experiences can support your application.

Still, if you plan to intern or work internationally long-term, investing in the TOEFL is a smart move.

I hope this blog on TOEFL scores for internships while studying abroad helped you understand their role in your global career journey. A good TOEFL score isn’t just for university admission—it can be a key to unlocking professional experience during your studies. Use it to strengthen your internship applications and show that you’re ready to thrive in any global workplace.