7 Universities in the USA That Accept Low TOEFL iBT® Test Scores

Some universities in the USA provide opportunities for international students by accepting lower TOEFL iBT® scores. For example, Indiana State University and Cleveland State University open their doors to students with scores of 61 and 65, respectively.

If you're aiming to study in the USA but worried about high TOEFL requirements, don't worry. Let’s explore more universities that can help turn your academic aspirations into reality.

Check out - TOEFL iBT® Score Requirements for USA Study Visa

Why do US Universities Accept Low TOEFL Scores? 

US universities often accept low TOEFL iBT scores due to their holistic admission approach, which evaluates multiple aspects of a candidate's profile. 

This includes factors like the Statement of Purpose (SOP), letters of recommendation (LOR), academic transcripts, personal statements, work experience, and other relevant documents. Here are the key reasons:

• Universities consider the overall academic performance and personal achievements of applicants, not just their TOEFL iBT scores.
• Different programs within the same university may have varying TOEFL iBT score requirements, depending on the nature of the coursework.
• Institutions seek to enroll students from diverse backgrounds who can bring unique perspectives to their academic community.
• For programs not heavily reliant on language skills, lower TOEFL iBT scores are often acceptable.

Check out - MS Colleges & Universities Abroad Accepting TOEFL iBT® Scores in 2025

Top 7 Universities in the USA Accepting Low TOEFL Scores

Each USA university offers a varied range of courses and have unique attributes that make them appealing to international students with a TOEFL score of 60 or above.

The top 7 universities in the USA accepting a low TOEFL score include:

1. Ohio State University - Columbus

Ohio State University is a public research university known for its strong programs in business, engineering, and sciences. It offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. 

Ohio State's employability rate is high and maintains an acceptance rate of about 54%. The annual cost of studying here is approximately $30,000 for out-of-state students.

2. Golden Gate University

Located in San Francisco, Golden Gate University focuses on professional education in fields like law, business, and accounting. It offers six undergraduate and 15 graduate degrees. 

GGU has a strong emphasis on career-oriented education, contributing to a good employability rate. The acceptance rate is around 75%, and the annual cost of attendance is about $30,000

3. Indiana State University

Indiana State University offers more than 100 undergraduate majors and over 75 graduate programs. Known for its comprehensive education in fields such as education, business, and health sciences, it has a robust support system for international students. 

The employability rate is commendable, with an acceptance rate of 90%. The annual cost is approximately $20,000

4. Cleveland State University

Cleveland State University, situated in Ohio, offers a variety of programs in engineering, business, health sciences, and urban affairs. Its urban setting provides ample internship and employment opportunities. 

The employability rate is high, with an acceptance rate of around 90%. The cost of studying here is about $24,000 per year

5. East Tennessee State University

Located in Johnson City, East Tennessee State University provides a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including health sciences, business, and the arts. It has a strong focus on research and community engagement. 

The university has a good employability rate, an acceptance rate of around 85%, and an annual cost of about $23,500

6. University of Tulsa

The University of Tulsa in Oklahoma is known for its programs in petroleum engineering, business, law, and computer science. The university has a strong emphasis on research and practical learning. 

The employability rate is high, with an acceptance rate of about 41%. The annual cost is around $43,500

7. Bowling Green State University

Bowling Green State University in Ohio offers programs in education, business, and the arts and sciences. The university is noted for its strong community and campus life. 

The employability rate is competitive, with an acceptance rate of 75%. The cost of attendance is approximately $19,000 per year

Fulfill Study Abroad Aspirations With TOEFLTestPrep 

As we conclude, it is crucial to note that while several universities in the USA accept lower TOEFL scores, it's crucial to prioritise comprehensive preparation to maximise opportunities.

For aspiring students, dedicated resources like toefltestprep.com offer tailored guidance and practice, empowering them to achieve their academic ambitions with confidence and proficiency.

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