Since January 21, 2026, TOEFL iBT score reports use a 1–6 scale in half-point increments for section and overall scores. ETS says a comparable overall 0–120 score is also provided during a two-year transition period.
Use the current score scale
TOEFL iBT score reporting changed in 2026. Applicants should use current ETS information and then check how the target university states its own requirement instead of copying an older 0–120 threshold from an outdated page.
How to use an English-test guide for university applications
Use a test guide to understand the score system and application planning, but use the university’s current admissions page to decide whether your score is acceptable. A calculator can explain a score; it cannot change an institution’s admission policy.
- Required test type
- Minimum overall score
- Minimum section scores
- Accepted test version
- Score validity or recency policy
- Score-submission method
A safe test-score planning workflow
- Identify every university and programme requirement.
- Record the minimum total and section scores.
- Choose the accepted test type.
- Schedule the test early enough for score release.
- Leave time for a retake if appropriate.
- Submit the official result through the method requested.
Common test-score mistakes
- Using an old score table without checking the testing organization
- Assuming one university’s score requirement applies everywhere
- Ignoring section minimums
- Using an unofficial conversion as proof of eligibility
- Booking the test too close to the application deadline
Example: checking a university requirement
If a university states an overall English-test minimum plus section minimums, compare your official score with both conditions. Do not treat an overall score calculator as proof of eligibility when the institution has additional section requirements.
What score tools can and cannot do
- Explain the scoring method
- Help with planning or estimates
- Show how an average is calculated when the official method is published
- They cannot issue an official score
- They cannot change a university’s admission requirement
- They cannot guarantee acceptance
Before sending a score
- Check the university’s current requirement.
- Confirm the accepted test type.
- Confirm the score-reporting method.
- Check any score-recency rule.
- Submit the official result through the requested route.
What to verify before you act
Use the current official source for any deadline, cost, eligibility requirement, admissions condition, score policy or programme rule that can change. A general guide can organize the process, but the official source for the exact programme or opportunity should control the final decision.
Common questions
What TOEFL score should I target?
The correct target depends on the university and programme. Check the published requirement, including any section minimums, rather than relying on one universal target.
Does every university use the new TOEFL 1–6 scale in the same way?
Universities decide which TOEFL score requirement they use. Check the current programme requirement and do not assume an older 0–120 threshold maps automatically.
Can I submit a TOEFL score from before 2026?
Acceptance depends on the institution and its score policy. Check the university’s current requirement and ETS guidance for score reporting.
Official source
Check the official source for the latest requirements, dates, costs or programme-specific rules: Official source.
Related Genesis resources
Scholarships related to this guide
Browse scholarship opportunities that match the guide topic or destination.
Opportunities to explore next
Find internships, fellowships and other student opportunities.
Use a related student tool.
Try a practical Genesis tool that fits this part of your application or study journey.