Planning to study abroad can be both exciting and overwhelming. One of the most important steps in this journey is proving your English proficiency, and that’s where the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) comes in. Many universities in the USA, Canada, and Europe recognize TOEFL scores as a standard measure of English skills. Understanding which universities accept TOEFL scores—and what scores they expect—can save you time, stress, and help you target the best-fit programs. In this guide, we’ll explore top TOEFL accepting universities, their score requirements, and practical tips to strengthen your application.
What is TOEFL and Why is it Popular?
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is one of the most trusted English proficiency exams for students who want to study abroad. It measures the four academic skills—Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing—that are essential for success in university settings. The most widely used format is the TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test), which can be taken at test centers worldwide or, in some cases, at home.
TOEFL remains a popular choice because it is:
- Globally Accepted: Recognized by more than 12,000 universities and institutions in 160+ countries, including the USA, Canada, Europe, and Asia.
- Academically Relevant: Test tasks reflect real classroom situations, such as listening to lectures, summarizing discussions, and writing essays.
- Fair and Reliable: Uses a combination of human raters and AI technology to ensure accurate and unbiased scoring.
- Flexible: Offers both TOEFL iBT and the shorter TOEFL Essentials, giving students options depending on their target schools.
- Trusted by Top Universities: Preferred by Ivy League institutions, Canadian research universities, and leading European schools.
In short, TOEFL is valued not just as a test of English, but as a reliable indicator of whether students can thrive in an international academic environment.
Top TOEFL Accepting Universities in the USA
The United States is home to some of the most prestigious universities globally, and most of them accept TOEFL scores for international students. The TOEFL iBT (internet-based test) measures your reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills, ensuring that you can handle the demands of an English-speaking academic environment.
Here’s a list of some top universities and their minimum TOEFL requirements:
| University | Minimum TOEFL iBT Score | Location | QS World University Ranking |
| Harvard University | No minimum specified (competitive applicants usually 100+) | Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA | 5 |
| Stanford University | 100 | Stanford, California, USA | 3 |
| MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) | 90 | Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA | 1 |
| University of California, Berkeley | 80 | Berkeley, California, USA | =17 |
| University of Chicago | No minimum specified (competitive applicants often 100+) | Chicago, Illinois, USA | 13 |
| University of Pennsylvania | 100 | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA | 15 |
| Yale University | 100 | New Haven, Connecticut, USA | 21 |
| Columbia University | 105 | New York City, New York, USA | =38 |
| Cornell University | 100 | Ithaca, New York, USA | 16 |
| UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) | 100 | Los Angeles, California, USA | 46 |
Leading TOEFL Accepting Universities in Canada
Canada is an increasingly popular destination for international students due to its welcoming environment, high-quality education, and diverse programs. Canadian universities widely accept TOEFL scores, but the required scores may vary depending on the university and program.
| University | Minimum TOEFL Score (iBT) | Location | QS World University Ranking |
| University of Toronto | 89 (with at least 22 in Writing) | Toronto, Ontario | 29 |
| McGill University | 79 | Montreal, Quebec | 27 |
| University of British Columbia | 90 (with section minimums) | Vancouver, British Columbia | 38 |
| Université de Montréal | Varies by program (mostly French-language) | Montreal, Quebec | 168 |
| University of Alberta | 90 (with no section below 21) | Edmonton, Alberta | 94 |
| University of Calgary | 86 | Calgary, Alberta | 211 |
| University of Ottawa | 79 | Ottawa, Ontario | 219 |
| University of Waterloo | 80 (with sectional minimums) | Waterloo, Ontario | 119 |
| McMaster University | 86 (with at least 20 in each section) | Hamilton, Ontario | 173 |
| University of Saskatchewan | 86 (with section minimums) | Saskatoon, Saskatchewan | 378 |
Prominent TOEFL Accepting Universities in Europe
Europe offers a diverse academic experience with many programs taught entirely in English, making it accessible for international students. Countries like the Netherlands, Denmark, Finland, Spain, and Austria host universities that accept TOEFL scores for undergraduate and graduate programs.
| University | Minimum TOEFL Score (iBT) | Location | QS World University Ranking |
| University of Amsterdam | 100 (with section minimums: R24, L22, W24, S24) | Amsterdam, Netherlands | 53 |
| University of Copenhagen | 83 | Copenhagen, Denmark | 101 |
| University of Helsinki | 92 (with at least 22 in Writing) | Helsinki, Finland | 116 |
| University of Barcelona | 90 | Barcelona, Spain | 160 |
| University of Vienna | 90 | Vienna, Austria | 152 |
| University of Warsaw | 90 | Warsaw, Poland | 271 |
| University of Belgrade | 90 | Belgrade, Serbia | 761–770 |
| University of Ljubljana | 90 | Ljubljana, Slovenia | 535 |
| University of Bucharest | 90 | Bucharest, Romania | 761–770 |
| University of Zagreb | 90 | Zagreb, Croatia | 701–710 |
Tips for TOEFL Preparation and University Applications
- Understand University Requirements:
Each program may have different TOEFL score expectations. Carefully review these requirements to plan your preparation effectively. - Practice Strategically:
Focus on your weak areas—whether it’s reading, writing, speaking, or listening. Regular practice with sample tests and timed exercises will help you build confidence. - Consider TOEFL Essentials for Canada:
If your target is a Canadian university, TOEFL Essentials is accepted by several institutions and can be a faster, more flexible testing option. - Apply Early:
Deadlines for international students can be strict. Early applications give you more time for visa processing and scholarship consideration. - Focus on Holistic Preparation:
A strong TOEFL score is important, but universities also value your academic performance, personal statement, recommendation letters, and extracurricular achievements. - Seek Guidance:
Parents and students can benefit from consulting study abroad professionals who can help choose universities, understand application procedures, and provide strategies for standardized tests like the TOEFL.
Final Thoughts
With widespread acceptance at leading universities in the USA, Canada, and Europe, the TOEFL remains a trusted gateway to higher education abroad. Meeting or exceeding the required score strengthens your application and expands your options, from Ivy League campuses to top Canadian and European institutions. By aiming for the right scores and preparing a strong overall profile, students can turn TOEFL results into opportunities for world-class education and global careers. And if you ever need help or have questions related to tests, just ask our AI assistant for personalized guidance.
FAQs:
- Is TOEFL easier than IELTS for university admissions?
TOEFL is more academic-focused, while IELTS is broader. Choice depends on your strengths and target universities. - Can I combine multiple TOEFL scores (MyBest Scores)?
Yes, many universities accept TOEFL MyBest Scores, but always check each school’s policy. - How long are TOEFL scores valid for admissions?
TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years from the test date. - Do scholarships require higher TOEFL scores than admission?
Sometimes. Competitive scholarships may expect scores above the university’s minimum. - When should I take TOEFL before applying abroad?
Ideally 6–12 months before deadlines, to allow retakes and time for score reporting.
