TOEFL for Graduate School

Almost every US graduate program asks international applicants for a TOEFL score. Here is what master's and PhD programs typically require on the new 1–6 scale — and a free full-length practice test to see where you stand today.

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Program type	Old total	New band
Competitive PhD / top-ranked master's STEM and humanities at highly selective schools	100–110+	5–5.5
Typical master's program The most common range you will see published	90–100	4.5–5
Minimum for many programs Often the floor for review, with sub-score minimums	79–90	4–4.5
Conditional / pathway admission May require an English bridge course first	60–78	3–4

Approximate ranges for orientation only. Always confirm the requirement on your specific program's admissions page.

Before you apply

Most programs also set a minimum per section — a strong total will not offset a weak Speaking or Writing band.

Score requirements are published per department, not just per university. Check the exact program page.

During the 2026 transition, reports show both the 1–6 band and a comparable 0–120 total, so either can be read.

Teaching assistantships frequently require a higher Speaking band than general admission.

Convert your score →

See how the old 0–120 total maps to the new 1–6 band.

TOEFL vs IELTS →

Deciding which exam to take? Compare them side by side.

See where you stand — free

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