IELTS/TOEFL Scores for Studying Abroad: What Do You Actually Need?

Score Isn't the Only Requirement, But It's Crucial

IELTS or TOEFL scores are usually a mandatory requirement for university applications abroad, alongside academic grades, application essays, and other supporting documents. Without meeting the minimum score requirement, an application often won't even be processed further.

It's important to check the specific score requirements for each program and university, since requirements can vary widely depending on how competitive the program is.

General Overview for Undergraduate Programs

For undergraduate programs at most universities, common score requirements range from IELTS band 6.0-6.5 or TOEFL iBT 80-90. More competitive programs or certain majors like law and journalism usually require higher scores due to more complex language demands.

General Overview for Graduate Programs

Graduate programs generally require higher scores than undergraduate ones, typically IELTS band 6.5-7.5 or TOEFL iBT 90-100 and above, especially for research programs or majors that demand strong academic writing.

Some highly competitive graduate programs, like top-tier MBAs, may even require IELTS band 7.5 and above.

Tips for Meeting the Score Deadline

Since IELTS and TOEFL scores are typically only valid for 2 years, it's important to build a prep timeline that aligns with your application deadlines, so your score is still valid when you submit your application documents.

Starting prep well in advance with an upfront diagnostic test helps determine how much realistic prep time you need to hit your target program's score requirement.

AA Class's Language Certification & BIPA program helps students build a score roadmap aligned with their application timeline, complete with periodic mock tests to track readiness.

Check out our Language Certification & BIPA program at AA Class for more focused IELTS/TOEFL prep.