What is a Good TOEFL Score for US College Admissions?
For international students applying to top US universities, including the Ivy League and top 30 colleges, English proficiency is a key requirement. One of the most widely recognized tests for proving English proficiency is the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).
If you're wondering what a good TOEFL score is and how it impacts your university applications, this guide will break it down for you.
π What is the TOEFL?
The TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test) assesses English proficiency across four key areas:
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Reading
β
Listening
β
Speaking
β
Writing
The entire test takes approximately 4.5 hours to complete. It is accepted by most US universities, as well as institutions in the UK, Canada, Australia, and Singapore.
π Understanding TOEFL Scores
Total score range: 0 β 120
Each section (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing) is scored out of 30
What is a "Good" TOEFL Score?
πΉ 80+ β A competitive score for many mid-tier US universities
πΉ 90+ β Strong for most top public and private US universities
πΉ 100+ β Excellent score for Ivy League and top 30 US colleges
πΉ 110+ β Competitive for the most selective institutions
π‘ Fact: Only 15% of test-takers score above 100, making this a strong benchmark for elite universities.
π What TOEFL Score Do Top US Universities Require?
Different universities have varying minimum TOEFL score requirements. Here are some examples:
Harvard University β 105+ recommended
Stanford University β 100+
MIT β 90+ (higher recommended)
Columbia University β 100+
University of California, Berkeley β 90+
New York University (NYU) β 100+
Boston University β 90+
University of Southern California (USC) β 100+
π‘ Tip: Always check the official website of your target university for the most up-to-date TOEFL requirements.
π What If Your TOEFL Score is Low?
If your TOEFL score does not meet the minimum requirement for your dream school, donβt panic! Here are a few options:
1οΈβ£ Retake the TOEFL
You can retake the TOEFL every 12 days
Most students see a 5-10 point improvement with better preparation
2οΈβ£ Apply to Universities with Conditional Acceptance
Some universities offer conditional admission, allowing students to enroll in English language programs before starting regular courses.
Example:
George Mason University ACCESS Program β Students with a lower TOEFL score can take intensive English courses before joining the university.
3οΈβ£ Consider the Duolingo or IELTS Test
Some US universities accept Duolingo or IELTS as an alternative to TOEFL.
π How to Improve Your TOEFL Score?
1οΈβ£ Master Time Management
The TOEFL is a timed testβpracticing under timed conditions is key to avoiding rushed answers.
2οΈβ£ Enhance Your Speaking Skills
Record yourself answering common TOEFL speaking prompts.
Focus on clear pronunciation, logical structure, and confidence.
3οΈβ£ Practice Reading Complex Texts
Read news articles, research papers, and opinion pieces to improve reading speed and comprehension.
4οΈβ£ Strengthen Writing with Structured Responses
Use a clear format (Introduction, Body, Conclusion) for TOEFL essays.
Practice writing responses to sample TOEFL essay questions.
5οΈβ£ Take Full-Length TOEFL Practice Tests
Simulating test-day conditions reduces anxiety and boosts confidence.
Identify weak areas and focus on improving them.
π How to Register for the TOEFL?
Cost: Varies by country (e.g., $235 in Singapore, $185 in Malaysia).
Where to Register: ETS Official TOEFL Website
How Often Can You Take It? Every 12 days (no yearly limit).
π Get Expert Guidance for TOEFL & US College Applications
At MCC Global Education, we specialize in helping ambitious students gain admission to Ivy League and top 30 US universities. Our expert consultants provide:
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Personalized TOEFL Study Plans β Tailored strategies to improve weak areas
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Mock TOEFL Speaking & Writing Practice β Real-time feedback from expert tutors
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University Selection & Application Strategy β Ensuring your profile aligns with top colleges
β
Admissions Consulting for Elite US Universities β Crafting standout applications for Ivy League schools
π© Contact us today to boost your TOEFL score and enhance your chances of admission to prestigious US universities!
π§ Email: admin@mccglobaleducation.com
π± WhatsApp: +65 81812406
π Visit: www.mccglobaleducation.com