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.

πŸ“Œ What is the TOEFL?

The TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test) assesses English proficiency across four key areas:
βœ… Reading
βœ… Listening
βœ… Speaking
βœ… 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.

πŸ“Œ Understanding TOEFL Scores

  • Total score range: 0 – 120

  • Each section (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing) is scored out of 30

What is a "Good" TOEFL Score?

πŸ”Ή 80+ – A competitive score for many mid-tier US universities
πŸ”Ή 90+ – Strong for most top public and private US universities
πŸ”Ή 100+ – Excellent score for Ivy League and top 30 US colleges
πŸ”Ή 110+ – Competitive for the most selective institutions

πŸ’‘ Fact: Only 15% of test-takers score above 100, making this a strong benchmark for elite universities.

πŸ“Œ What TOEFL Score Do Top US Universities Require?

Different universities have varying minimum TOEFL score requirements. Here are some examples:

  • Harvard University – 105+ recommended

  • Stanford University – 100+

  • MIT – 90+ (higher recommended)

  • Columbia University – 100+

  • University of California, Berkeley – 90+

  • New York University (NYU) – 100+

  • Boston University – 90+

  • University of Southern California (USC) – 100+

πŸ’‘ Tip: Always check the official website of your target university for the most up-to-date TOEFL requirements.

πŸ“Œ What If Your TOEFL Score is Low?

If your TOEFL score does not meet the minimum requirement for your dream school, don’t panic! Here are a few options:

1️⃣ Retake the TOEFL

  • You can retake the TOEFL every 12 days

  • Most students see a 5-10 point improvement with better preparation

2️⃣ 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 – Students with a lower TOEFL score can take intensive English courses before joining the university.

3️⃣ Consider the Duolingo or IELTS Test

  • Some US universities accept Duolingo or IELTS as an alternative to TOEFL.

πŸ“Œ How to Improve Your TOEFL Score?

1️⃣ Master Time Management

  • The TOEFL is a timed testβ€”practicing under timed conditions is key to avoiding rushed answers.

2️⃣ Enhance Your Speaking Skills

  • Record yourself answering common TOEFL speaking prompts.

  • Focus on clear pronunciation, logical structure, and confidence.

3️⃣ Practice Reading Complex Texts

  • Read news articles, research papers, and opinion pieces to improve reading speed and comprehension.

4️⃣ Strengthen Writing with Structured Responses

  • Use a clear format (Introduction, Body, Conclusion) for TOEFL essays.

  • Practice writing responses to sample TOEFL essay questions.

5️⃣ Take Full-Length TOEFL Practice Tests

  • Simulating test-day conditions reduces anxiety and boosts confidence.

  • Identify weak areas and focus on improving them.

πŸ“Œ 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).

πŸš€ 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:

βœ… Personalized TOEFL Study Plans – Tailored strategies to improve weak areas
βœ… Mock TOEFL Speaking & Writing Practice – Real-time feedback from expert tutors
βœ… University Selection & Application Strategy – Ensuring your profile aligns with top colleges
βœ… Admissions Consulting for Elite US Universities – Crafting standout applications for Ivy League schools

πŸ“© Contact us today to boost your TOEFL score and enhance your chances of admission to prestigious US universities!

πŸ“§ Email: admin@mccglobaleducation.com
πŸ“± WhatsApp: +65 81812406
🌐 Visit: www.mccglobaleducation.com

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