TOEFL Exam Eligibility 2025: Check Age Limit, Academic Qualification & Minimum Score

TOEFL

Raushan Kumar
Updated on Sep 30, 2025 16:17 IST

By Raushan Kumar, Assistant Manager Content

There is no strict TOEFL eligibility for students. But one simple rule is you should pass class 10+2 from a recognized Indian board or university. So, students looking for an English proficiency test after class 12 online can apply for TOEFL exam.

This TOEFL test checks your reading, listening, writing and speaking skills in an academic setup like a university. It is very important part of application for students who plan to study abroad in English-speaking countries. Before applying, students have to check slot availability and also see they meet the simple TOEFL exam eligibility.

TOEFL eligibility requirements
Q:   What is the age limit for TOEFL exam?
A: 

There is no age limit for students wanting to appear for the TOEFL test. It is generally recommended that candidates should be above 16 years before applying for TOEFL exam. 

Q:   Who is eligible to take the TOEFL exam?
A: 

There are no specific eligibility criteria for the TOEFL exam prescribed by the ETS. If a candidate has completed 10+2 or equivalent education can take the TOEFL. 

Q:   What are the requirements to take TOEFL exam?
A: 

To take the TOEFL exam, candidates must have:

  • A valid photo ID (such as a passport).
  • Registration through the official ETS website.
  • Payment of the exam fee.
Table of content
  • TOEFL Eligibility Criteria for Indians
  • TOEFL Eligibility Score for Top Universities
  • Minimum TOEFL Score Requirements - Country-wise
  • TOEFL Eligibility Documents Required
  • TOEFL Eligibility for re-attempts
  • TOEFL Home Edition Requirements
  • Who can take the TOEFL exam?
  • TOEFL Registrations 2025
  • TOEFL Exam Dates
View More
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TOEFL Eligibility Criteria for Indians

This part talk about TOEFL eligibility for Indian students who want to give TOEFL exam. There is no special education or age rule to take TOEFL test.

Educational Qualifications for TOEFL Exam

There is no fixed TOEFL exam eligibility set by ETS. But usually, students should have passed 10+2 from a recognized board. This make them ready for the exam. Simple way, if you finish 12th grade or even have a graduate degree, you can sit for TOEFL exam without problem.

Age Limit for TOEFL Exam

ETS does not fix any age limit for candidates who want to take TOEFL test. People of any age who meet the education rule can appear. Students who want to study abroad in English-speaking countries that need TOEFL score can take the exam no matter how old they are.

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   Is there a minimum TOEFL score required for admission to universities?
A: 

There is no universal minimum TOEFL score for admission to universities. The score required varies depending on the institution and the program. Any TOEFL score above 100 will be good for top universities. 

Q:   How many attempts can I take for TOEFL exam?
A: 

The TOEFL test can be attempted as many times as the candidate wants, but to take a re-test the candidate has to wait for a 3-day period after attempting the first test.

Q:   Is TOEFL easier than IELTS?
A: 

Candidates should note that both TOEFL and IELTS are English language tests that have been designed for the benefit of students wanting to study in English speaking country abroad. These English proficiency tests will examine the English proficiency skills of the applicant and inform the university whether the candidate is fit for the curriculum. Hence, both exams have been created at par with each other. 







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TOEFL Eligibility Score for Top Universities

If you are planning for the TOEFL exam, there is no strict TOEFL exam eligibility rules. But still it is good idea to check what your college or university needs before you apply.

All students whose first language is not English usually need to give the TOEFL exam. Universities in USA, Canada, Ireland and other English-speaking countries ask for this to check your language skills before giving admission. Even some professionals take the TOEFL test because it is sometimes needed for student visa or other purposes.

TOEFL Eligibility Score for Top Universities in 2025

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Shiksha Grade A++

90.0 & Above

Cambridge University

Shiksha Grade A++

n/a

Oxford University

Shiksha Grade A++

100 (Listening: 22, Reading: 24, Speaking: 25, Writing: 24)

Harvard University

Shiksha Grade A++

80.0-103.0

Stanford University

Shiksha Grade A++

89.0-110.0

Imperial College London

Shiksha Grade A++

Standard: 92 overall (minimum 20 in all elements)

Higher: 100 overall (minimum 22 in all elements)

ETH Zurich

Shiksha Grade A++

100.0 & Above

National University of Singapore (NUS)

Shiksha Grade A++

85.0-92.0

University College London (UCL)

Shiksha Grade A++

September Intake: 72 overall (Listening: 17, Reading: 18, Speaking: 20, Writing 17)

January Intake: 80 overall (Listening: 19, Reading: 20, Speaking: 22, Writing 19)

University of California, Berkeley Campus

Shiksha Grade A++

90.0 & Above
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is a Good TOEFL Score?
A: 

TOEFL Scores: There are no good or bad scores when appearing for the TOEFL test. Candidates would be required to meet the TOEFL score decided by the universities. anything above would increase their chances of getting admission into the university and any score below the range could serve as a roadblock in the admission process. 

However, to make your test experience more personal and for you to understand your score better ETS has provided 4 to 5 proficiency levels for each skill. So where your score falls within that range tells you your proficiency for that skill. This will give you a fair idea about your performance, your strengths, sections that need improvement, and so on. Test takers can look at the table below to understand their TOEFL iBT Scores better. 

Skill/ Score Range

Level*

Reading

Score Range 0–30

Advanced (24–30)
High-Intermediate (18–23)
Low-Intermediate (4–17)
Below Low-Intermediate (0–3)

Listening

Score Range 0–30

Advanced (22–30)
High-Intermediate (17–21)
Low-Intermediate (9–16)
Below Low-Intermediate (0–8)

Speaking

Score Range 0–30

Advanced (25–30)
High-Intermediate (20–24)
Low-Intermediate (16–19)
Basic (10–15)
Below Basic (0–9

Writing

Score Range 0–30

Advanced (24–30)
High-Intermediate (17–23)
Low-Intermediate (13–16)
Basic (7–12)
Below Basic (0–6)

Total Score

 These are added together for a total score of 0–120.
Q:   What is the cutoff score for TOEFL exam?
A: 

The TOEFL minimum score cut-off will vary from university to university and country to country. On average, the minimum TOEFL score for most of the universities is 90-110.

Q:   Is getting a 100 TOEFL score easy?
A: 

Candidates should note that scoring in the TOEFL exam will entirely depend upon your preparation for the exam. Candidates who do not use any shortcuts and study with a plan in mind are sure to score above candidates who rely on last-minute preparations. And for serious candidates, there is no limit on their score. Hence, whether getting a 100 in your next TOEFL is easy or not would entirely depend on how you have prepared for it.

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Minimum TOEFL Score Requirements - Country-wise

In this section, we are going to be looking at the TOEFL eligibility score requirements across universities as part of the admission process.

What is TOEFL Eligibility Score?

TOEFL exam eligibility score is an optimum TOEFL score that would allow the candidate to comfortably apply to his/her university of choice. TOEFL eligibility is more like the TOEFL cut-off that is set by various universities as part of the university admission process. However, students should note that the TOEFL eligibility scores are always set on the lower side and applicants are advised to score higher to make their applications stand out. 

TOEFL 2025 Eligibility - USA

Top universities in US

TOEFL exam eligibility scores

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 90+

Minimum TOEFL PBT score: 577+

Stanford University Mnimum TOEFL iBT score: 100 - 110+
Harvard University

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 104+

Minimum TOEFL PBT score : 613+

California Institute of Technology (Caltech) Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 100+
University of Chicago Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 90 – 104+
University of Pennsylvania

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 100+

Minimum TOEFL PBT score: 600+

Princeton University Minimum TOEFL iBT score: no minimum score.
Yale University Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 100+
Cornell University Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 100+
Columbia University Minimum TOEFL iBT score:  105+
Johns Hopkins University

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 100+

Minimum TOEFL PBT score: 600+

TOEFL 2025 Eligibility - Canada

Top universities in Canada TOEFL exam eligibility scores
McGill University Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 86+
University of Toronto Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 100+
University of British Columbia Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 90-100+
University of Alberta Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 100+
McMaster University

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 92+

Minimum TOEFL PBT score: 580+

University of Waterloo Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 90+
Western University Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 86+
University of Ottawa Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 100+
University of Calgary

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 86+

Minimum PBT score: 560+

Queen's University at Kingston

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 88+

Minimum PBT score: 580+

TOEFL 2025 Eligibility - UK

Top Universities in UK TOEFL exam eligibility scores
University of Cambridge Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 100 – 110+
University of Oxford Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 100 – 110+
Imperial College London Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 100+
University College London (UCL) Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 92 – 109+
The University of Edinburgh Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 92+
The University of Manchester Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 90 - 100+
King's College London Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 100+
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 107+
University of Bristol Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 90+
The University of Warwick Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 92+

TOEFL Eligibility 2025 - Australia

Top universities in Australia TOEFL exam eligibility scores
Australian National University (ANU)

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 80 -100+

Minimum PBT score:: 570 – 600+

The University of Melbourne

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 79+

Minimum PBT score: 577+

The University of Sydney

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 85+

Minimum PBT score: 565+

The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 90+

Minimum PBT score: 577+

The University of Queensland

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 87+

Minimum PBT score: 570+

Monash University

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 79+

Minimum PBT score: 550+

The University of Western Australia

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 82 – 100+

Minimum PBT score: 570+

The University of Adelaide

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 79+

Minimum PBT score: 577+

University of Technology Sydney Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 79 - 102+
University of Wollongong Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 40 - 106+

TOEFL Eligibility 2025 - Germany

Top universities in Germany TOEFL exam eligibility scores
Technical University of Munich Minimum TOEFL iBT score: No minimum score
Ludwig Maximilians University Munich Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 80+
Heidelberg University - Germany

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 79+

Minimum PBT score: 550+

Free University of Berlin Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 100+
Humboldt University of Berlin

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 100+

Minimum PBT score: 600+

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 88+

Minimum PBT score: 570+

RWTH Aachen University Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 95+
Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin)

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 80+

Minimum PBT score: 550+

Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen

Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 80+

Minimum PBT score: 550+

Technische Universität Dresden Minimum TOEFL iBT score: 90+
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Is TOEFL score same in all countries?
A: 

No, TOEFL score requirements are different country-wise. Each university or college also have their own score rules. Some countries need minimum score for student visa, others just follow university rules.

Q:   What is the TOEFL requirement for Australia?
A: 

Australian universities generally requires TOEFL score of 79–100.

Q:   How much TOEFL score I need for Canada?
A: 

In Canada, many universities want TOEFL iBT score of 80–100. Some colleges accept lower, but for master's or PhD, score should be higher.

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TOEFL Eligibility Documents Required

Candidates are required to show their valid Indian passports as part of their ID. A valid Indian passport with your name, photograph, and signature is mandatory at the test centres.

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   What ID proof is needed to register for TOEFL?
A: 

You need a valid and original photo ID (identity proof). The most accepted ID is a passport. Your name on the ID must match your TOEFL registration name.

Q:   Can I use school ID card or Aadhar card for TOEFL registration?
A: 

No, school ID, Aadhar, or photocopies are not accepted. You need original government ID like passport or sometimes national ID card (only if ETS accepts in your country).

 

Q:   Can I use any ID other than a passport for TOEFL registration in India?
A: 

No. Candidates appearing for the TOEFL test in India have to carry a valid passport with their name, photograph, and signature. Other IDs like Aadhar Card, PAN Card, or a driver's license are not accepted at the TOEFL iBT test centre. 

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TOEFL Eligibility for re-attempts

Many students ask how many times you can take TOEFL exam. You can take TOEFL test again many times, there is no limit. But you cannot take it more than one time in 3 days. You need wait three days between two TOEFL iBT exams.

  • Improve your skills
  • Take the TOEFL iBT free practice test
  • Take the official online TOEFL iBT course
  • Watch the official ETS TOEFL video playlist
  • Register for your next test
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Commonly asked questions
Q:   Do I have to register again for TOEFL re-test?
A: 

Yes, you will need to register again for a TOEFL re-test, even if you have previously registered and taken the exam. 

Q:   Can I take TOEFL test again?
A: 

Yes, you can take TOEFL test again and again. There is no limit. You can re-attempt it if you are not happy with your score.

Q:   How soon can I give TOEFL again?
A: 

You can give TOEFL again after 3 days. So if you gave test on Monday, you can book next one from Thursday.

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TOEFL Home Edition Requirements

Now candidates can take TOEFL iBT test from home. But remember, this is a proctor-monitored TOEFL exam, so you need correct system and quiet space to do the test.

System Requirements for TOEFL iBT Home Edition

Requirement

Details

Computer

Desktop or laptop only. No tablets or mobiles.

Monitor

Only one screen. Dual monitors not allowed.

Operating System

PC: Windows 10+ ; Mac: Mac OS X 10.13+

Browser

Chrome or Firefox only

Proctor Software

Install ProctorU Guardian Browser to talk with proctor.

Speaker

Internal or external speaker. Headsets or earphones not allowed.

Microphone

Internal or external mic only. No headset mic.

Webcam

Internal or external webcam ok. Must show 360-degree room view when asked.

Environment and Test Space Rules

  • You must be alone in room, nobody should enter.
  • No public places like park, cafe, restaurant.
  • Close all doors before start.
  • Computer and keyboard on desk or table.
  • Table and chair placed so proctor can see door.
  • Remove all extra items: cell phone, papers, study material. Furniture stays.
  • Sit on standard chair, not bed or couch.
  • No food or drinks during test.
  • Ears and face must stay visible. Religious headwear allowed if ears visible. Face masks not allowed.
  • Dress properly, proctor and institutions will see your photo.
  • Remove headphones, smartwatches, jewellery, hair accessories. Wedding rings are ok.
  • No paper notes allowed. Only one small whiteboard or one sheet inside transparent protector with erasable marker. Must erase notes at end.
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Is the TOEFL iBT Home Edition accepted by universities?
A: 

Most universities accept the TOEFL iBT Home Edition. However, it's recommended to check with your specific institution to confirm their acceptance of this test format.

Q:   Can I take the TOEFL from home in India?
A: 

ETS - the conducting body of the TOEFL exam has launched the TOEFL Home Edition for candidates looking to take the test from the safety of their homes. The TOEFL Home Edition is still available along with the TOEFL iBT test at a test centre. However, candidates opting for the TOEFL Home Edition will be required to meet the technical and environmental requirements set by the conducting body.

Q:   When are the results of TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition Test available?
A: 

The TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition Test scores would be communicated to the student within 4-8 days. Candidates should keep in mind that due to the ongoing pandemic delivery of paper score reports may be delayed. 

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Who can take the TOEFL exam?

As informed previously, the TOEFL exam is for students who wish to get admission to universities, colleges or educational institutions in English-speaking countries. Candidates who have passed out of high school or equivalent are the major test takers. Apart from this, candidates should hold a valid passport to present as proof of identity at the time of the exam.

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   Who should take the TOEFL exam?
A: 

The TOEFL exam is good for students who want to study abroad in English. It is mostly useful where universities teach in English. TOEFL also helps for getting a student visa sometimes. If you plan to study in US, UK, Canada, Australia, or Europe, the TOEFL test is widely accepted and many universities prefer it.

Q:   Is TOEFL only for students?
A: 

No, TOEFL is also for people who want to work, get a visa, or go for training in an English-speaking country.

Q:   Can I take TOEFL if I already gave IELTS?
A: 

Yes. You can take both TOEFL and IELTS. Some people try both to see where they get better score.

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TOEFL Registrations 2025

Registration for TOEFL can be done online by phone, desktop or laptop from the ETS website. The TOEFL registration can be done throughout the year. Make sure to select the exam centre before filling out the application. Also, registration for the TOEFL exam will close seven days before the commencement of the test.

TOEFL Online Application

Below are the steps to registering for the TOEFL test online

  • Create your profile on the ETS’ official website.
  • Submit the details like your name, address, email id etc.
  • Always cross-check the information you are providing. It should match the information given on your passport.
  • Pay the TOEFL application fee.

TOEFL Home Edition: Registrations

Candidates looking to register for the TOEFL at Home test can do this by creating an ETS TOEFL account and opting for the TOEFL at Home test option. 

Read more
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Commonly asked questions
Q:   Can I write TOEFL for free?
A: 

No, for appearing for the TOEFL test, one NEET to complete the registration. Candidates need to pay the TOEFL registration fees after filling the required details for successfull regustration. 

Q:   What documentation do I need to carry to the TOEFL test center in India?
A: 

Candidates taking the TOEFL test will be required to bring their valid passport that matches the name you used during the registration process. TOEFL test takers will not be allowed to bring any other personal belongings to the testing room.

Q:   How can I register for TOEFL exam?
A: 

Candidates are required to visit the TOEFL login page and create an online profile. Then they’ll be required to pay the TOEFL exam fee of INR16,900 INR (test takers who register online can choose to pay in Indian Rupees, based on that day’s exchange rate, as calculated in the registration system.). Online registration on the ETS website is the fastest and the easiest method. Through the online method, you can register anytime and on any day. Be sure to spell your name exactly as it appears on the identification you will bring on the test day, which for Indian students should ideally be their Passport. You will be required to pay with a credit/debit card. 

Steps to apply for TOEFL Exam:

  • Go to the official website of ETS and create your profile.
  • Fill in all the information like your name, address, email id, etc.
  • Make sure the information you provide is the same as it is on your passport ( Most important, your name must match your ID exactly.)
  • Select your TOEFL test date  and TOEFL test centre
  • Confirm your selection
  • Proceed to pay the application fee
  • Print out your acknowledgement form for future reference  
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TOEFL Exam Dates

The TOEFL iBT test happen up to six days in week in many countries at test centres or at home. You got many choices. But timing is very important because test slots fill very fast. You should pick TOEFL iBT test date 2 or 3 months before your first deadline and register about four months before test. This give you more time to work on your applications. If you need, you can retake TOEFL test after three days from first try.

Also Read: 

Read more
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Commonly asked questions
Q:   Is TOEFL exam conducted every month?
A: 

Yes, The TOEFL exams in India are conducted throughout the year, and the test dates are available every month. The availabilty of the TOEFL test dates will depends on cities. 

Q:   Can I take TOEFL anytime?
A: 

You can take the TOEFL exam anytime on the basis of the slot availabilty. Candidates are advised to book their preffered TOEFL test dates and centres as early as possible to avoid last minute hassle. 

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Comments

(366)

B

Babita Das

11 months ago

If the exam browser is not opening then what to do

Reply to Babita Das

Hello, My TOEFL iBT home edition EXAM's date is 19-05-2024. I don't know how to prepare and how I get 100+ score in this exam. Please, give me some advice please.

Reply to TIRTH GONDALIYA

S

Shalini

2 years ago

Hello I have given TOEFL home edition and my scores is 104 (reading 30, listening 29, speaking 19, writing 26). Will the Ireland universities accepts this score and home edition?

Reply to Shalini

R

Rahul Singha

a year ago

Hello Shalini. You can take a look at popular universities in Ireland, here: https://www.shiksha.com/studyabroad/apply You can also get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors for assistance with Ireland University Admissions 2023 here: https://www.shiksha.com/studyabroad/apply

N

NIKHIL YADAV

2 years ago

Hello I have given my TOEFL exam today and I have completed reading and listening successfully mean while in speaking I have read the question first 3 words loudly in preparation time does that effect my scorecard.please reply me please

Reply to NIKHIL YADAV

R

Rahul Singha

2 years ago

Hello Nikhil. Hope you are doing well. I seem to have overlooked your comment and my apologies for the same. I am guessing you have got your results by now. Reading the question out loud should not ideally affect your TOEFL test scores.

Do 93 overall TOEFL scores (R27, L27, W25, S14) leads rejection during Germany embassy interview, besides I have got unconditional offer from university? For Master Degree.

Reply to safiullah Ahmadzai

R

Rahul Singha

2 years ago

Hello Safiullah. The English language requirement is mostly university specific. Hence, if your university is convinced of your English-speaking skills then you would not have an issue with your student visa. However, you would be asked a couple of questions at the student visa interview and it is i

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