University of Colorado Boulder TOEFL Score Requirement

The University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) is a top-ranked public research university known for its academic excellence and diverse student community. For international applicants, demonstrating English proficiency is essential, and CU Boulder accepts TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo scores. TOEFL score requirements vary by program, with undergraduate and graduate courses having distinct minimum score criteria.

Here’s a detailed explanation of the TOEFL score requirements, other accepted tests, and the important things that should be considered by the applicant.

What are CU Boulder's TOEFL Requirements?

CU Boulder requires that all international applicants provide proof of English proficiency by taking one of the approved standardized English tests. One commonly used and accepted test is the TOEFL; required minimum scores are as follows:

• TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test): A minimum score of 75 is required.

It must be noted that these are minimum requirements set by the university. These may be higher for individual programs.

Accepted English Proficiency Tests and Minimum Scores at the University of Colorado Boulder

Here’s a table with the required minimum scores for undergraduate and graduate programs at CU Boulder. The requirements for Engineering majors and graduate programs like Computer Science and Chemical & Biological Engineering are higher than those for other undergraduate programs. 

Note: Students should verify department-specific requirements as some may have stricter criteria.

How to Submit English Proficiency Test Scores to the University of Colorado Boulder?

Here’s a table with instructions on how to submit TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo English Test scores to CU Boulder.

Score Validity:

• Test scores are valid for two years from the test date.

• Ensure that scores are submitted before they expire to avoid delays in the application process.

Exemptions from English Proficiency Testing

Applicants in the following categories may be exempt from submitting English proficiency test scores:

• The applicant has earned a degree from an institution where English is the sole language of instruction.

• Completion of an approved ESL program for graduate programs offering Conditional Language Admission.

Applicants must review the Graduate School's policy for specific details regarding exemptions.

Other Considerations for International Students

Besides the proficiency in the English language, applicants from abroad should know other requirements:

• Health Insurance: The university requires health insurance for international students and their dependents who will reside in the U.S.

• Proof of Finances: An applicant needs to show finances that can cover all expenses for his or her entire CU Boulder academic career.

• Employment: Generally, U.S. immigration regulations prohibit international students from working while studying, which makes it necessary to plan sufficiently for finances.

Meeting the minimum degree and English proficiency requirements is no guarantee of admission. CU Boulder evaluates applications, taking into consideration academic records, letters of recommendation, and other relevant materials.

Overall, the test scores required by the University of Colorado Boulder in TOEFL or other accepted tests of English proficiency are a very important step in the application process for international students. Meeting the requirements will give a better understanding to the applicants and thus prepare them for an academically successful application to CU Boulder.