Best 15 TOEFL Accepting Universities in USA: Minimum TOEFL Score

Are you planning to study in the USA? Then you might already know that all prospective international students have to qualify for a language test to get admission into any TOFEL accepting universities in USA. And for that you have to write TOEFL, which assesses the student's command of English. 

The TOEFL is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests for candidates looking to study abroad. Conducted by ETS (Educational Testing Service), the world's largest private nonprofit educational testing and assessment organization, TOEFL is an abbreviation of Test of English as a Foreign Language. 

The TOEFL exam is designed to test the reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills of the test-takers. The exam takes about 3 hours to complete and carries a maximum score of 120, with 30 marks allotted for each section. TOEFL is available in two methods: TOEFL iBT (internet-based) and TOEFL PBT (paper-based). The basic scores of this exam are universally accepted not just at US universities, but also by more than 11,000 colleges and universities across the world. 

Through this article, you will know more about this exam, which universities accept TOEFL in USA and the desirable score ranges.

Importance of TOEFL exam for admission to US universities

The TOEFL exam aims to test how skilled the candidate is in using English as the medium of instruction in a formal, deeply academic setting. Which is why most schools and universities in the US use TOEFL scores for admissions purposes. 

TOEFL exam scores are crucial in determining your admission to the top universities in the USA and other countries. A high score will get you into some of the best universities in the US. The exam provides evidence of your ability to use and understand English as a medium for academic pursuit in the US if you are from a non-English speaking nation or English is not your native language. 

Why take the TOEFL exam?

The TOEFL exam is one of the most widely recognized English proficiency exams in the United States and the world. It is a test that assesses overseas students’ ability to use and comprehend the English language as it is the spoken, written, and heard language in college and university settings. What is more, students who are able to demonstrate proficiency in the English language through TOEFL will be eligible for a variety of scholarships, as well as for work overseas and visa applications.

TOEFL Structure Breakdown

The TOEFL exam has four sections tested in an online test. 

Reading - This part of the test comprises of 3 to 5 written sections for the examinees to read and answer questions about. Each of the written passages has around ten questions that must be answered. These sections contain extracts from educational texts and general compositions.

Writing - One of the most significant TOEFL sections is the writing section. It is further divided into 2 tasks:

1. Integrated task (read/write/listen)
2. Independent task (write only)

Listening - This part of the exam requires people to pay attention to spoken materials and provide responses to inquiries.

Speaking - The TOEFL speaking section is fully online, in contrast to the IELTS. Test participants are given discussion questions based on actual life events.

TOFEL Accepted Universities in USA for Masters (MS)

Almost all universities in the US recognize TOEFL scores. Given below is the list of the top universities that accept TOEFL in the USA:

1. Harvard University
2. Stanford University
3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
4. Princeton University
5. Columbia University
6. Yale University
7. University of California - Berkeley Campus
8. University of Chicago
9. University of Pennsylvania 
10. Cornell University
11. Rice University 
12. University of Houston
13. Boston University
14. Duke University
15. University of California (Los Angeles)

Cut-off Score by TOFEL Accepting Universities in USA 

Students wishing to secure admission to top universities in the USA should aim to score at least 90 to 100 in their TOEFL exam. A cut-off score of 100 and above is usually required for Tier I universities where there is a massive amount of talent applying. However, a number of courses at Tier-I and Tier-II universities accepting TOEFL score 80 in USA and above. 

While a TOEFL score is not the sole benchmark or criterion for final selection and admission, there is no arguing that a good TOEFL score can go a long way in strengthening your chances of selection.

TOFEL Cut-off for US Universities 2023

Take a look at the minimum TOEFL score required for US universities that are top of the league:

TOFEL Accepting Universities in USA with <80 score

Even if you end up scoring less than 80, do not lose heart. Remember, TOEFL is only a test for assessing mastery over the English language. It is not the sole criterion for admission. There are other criteria on which a candidate is assessed before finally being granted admission. That said, there are many universities accepting TOEFL score 80 in USA or below. Some of them are Tulsa University, University of Montana, University of Manchester, and Arizona State University.

Guidelines for getting ready for the TOEFL Exam

The TOEFL is an all-encompassing examination that takes into consideration all elements of English language competency. Consequently, it is essential to bear in mind the following points before and during the preparation process.

• It is vital to become acquainted with the exam, its various sections, and kinds of questions.
• Establish a regular schedule for studying. Preparing for the TOEFL test is not a difficult task, but it necessitates continuous effort.
• Speak in English when conversing outside of your TOEFL preparation.
• To gain fluency in English, it is essential to engage in regular practice, as is the case with any other language.
• Seek guidance from an expert.

How can I check my TOEFL scores?

The unofficial scores for the Reading and Listening sections are available to candidates immediately after completing the test. However, the official TOEFL scores or TOEFL results are available to candidates approximately six days after taking the test. You will receive an email informing you that your score result is available. All you have to do is log in to your TOEFL account on the website and click ‘view scores’ to see your scores. Candidates who opt for the 'TOEFL at Home' version of the test will get their scores in six to ten days.

Step for getting access to your TOEFL scores:

1. Visit the official website of TOEFL 

2. Select member log-in

3. Log in with your member account credentials

4. View your TOEFL results

How to submit TOEFL Scores to TOEFL accepting Colleges and Universities in US?

When applying to a college or university in the United States, it is mandatory for applicants to transmit their TOEFL scores straight to the school they are applying to.

Before Taking the Test:

• Create an account
• Add/delete universities as per your requirement
• The results of the TOEFL exam will be transmitted to all the educational institutions you've included on your application.

Post Results:

• After they receive their results, students are able to send a record of their scores.
• Request your TOEFL test results through your account.
• After a period of five days, the universities specified on the list will receive the reports.

How long is the TOEFL Score Valid? Can I Retake the Test?

The TOEFL scores are valid for two years from the date of the TOEFL examination. Candidates are allowed to take the TOEFL test multiple times. If you are not satisfied with your score, and want to retake the test, you can do so by registering for the same. However, candidates can register for their second TOEFL test after three days of registering for the first TOEFL test. 

Which English Language Test is best TOEFL or IELTS?

It is not advised to contrast the TOEFL and the IELTS, which are both accepted as evidence of English language aptitude. Numerous universities in the United States necessitate a TOEFL score, while others require an IELTS score. To determine which of the two tests you should take, investigate your desired program or school.

Summing Up 

Now that you have comprehensive information about the TOEFL exam, its relevance to US university admissions and the TOEFL score you really need to target, start your TOEFL exam preparation and get admission to your dream university. 

If you're interested in enrolling in a university abroad, Edmissions can be of service. You can book a session with a consultant from Edmissions.com and we can provide guidance on anything from the college application process to the activities that need to be done before you leave.

Do you have the ambition to study abroad? Get in touch with Edmissions for additional details at [email protected]  

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