TOEFL Score for UK Universities at a Glance
Before we get into TOEFL score for UK universities, let us look at some of the test sections first.
- The Reading section comprises Complete the Words, Read in Daily Life, and Read an Academic Passage.
- The Listening section includes Listen and Choose a Response, Listen to a Conversation, Listen to an Announcement, and Listen to an Academic Talk.
- The Writing Section has components like Build a Sentence, Write an Email, and Write for an Academic Discussion.
- The Speaking section has Listen and Repeat, and Take an Interview.
Now you also get test options. The TOEFL iBT is available in two formats. You can either go for TOEFL iBT at an authorised test centre or choose the TOEFL iBT Home Edition at home with a live human proctor.
When it comes to scoring, you ought to know that scores are given for all four sections and an overall score on a 1 to 6 scale. The overall score is the average of the four section scores, rounded to the nearest half band. For two years after January 2026, students will also receive a comparable 0 to 120 score.
UK Score Requirements
As you know by now, UK universities set their own TOEFL requirements. The general range is 4.0 to 5.5, equivalent to 72 to 100+. But elite universities may require above 5.5 or 110 for tests taken before January 2026. Like Russell Group universities usually require 5.0 to 5.5, or 90 to 100. Whereas other universities may accept 4.0 to 4.5, or 72 to 80.
TOEFL Requirements for UK Universities by Course Level
TOEFL requirements for UK universities in the 2026 to 27 admission cycle are based on the course and required English level. Recently, the TOEFL iBT introduced a new 1 to 6 scoring scale on 21 January 2026, so both old and new scores may appear in university requirements.
Were you aware that the UK has 140+ universities, each setting its own TOEFL requirements? As you are well aware, the general range is 4.0 to 5.5, equivalent to 72 to 100+. But elite universities may require above 5.5 or 110 under the previous scale. And as we told you before, Russell Group universities usually require 5.0 to 5.5, or 90 to 100. While other universities may accept 4.0 to 4.5, or 72 to 80.
But did you know this? For undergraduate programmes, the minimum TOEFL score for UK universities are generally 79 to 80, while some programmes may require 90 to 100+ score. And that for postgraduate programmes, requirements are generally 92 to 100, but they vary by university and course. Now make sure you always check the university website for specific requirements.
Universities in UK Accepting TOEFL
So, ready to know which universities will accept TOEFL? Among the universities in UK accepting TOEFL are the following top institutions:
- UCL
- LSE
How UK Universities Read Your TOEFL Score
Validity
TOEFL scores are usually valid for two years from the test date. Universities do not accept expired scores.TOEFL iBT Home Edition and UK Student Visa Rules
Using TOEFL iBT for a Student Route Visa
- Check that your chosen UK university accepts TOEFL iBT for degree-level study.
- Meet the university’s TOEFL iBT score requirements for your course.
- Meet the Home Office TOEFL iBT requirements for immigration.
- Total score 72
- Reading 18
- Listening 17
- Writing 17
- Speaking 20
TOEFL iBT Home Edition
The TOEFL iBT Home Edition is the same test as the test-centre version. It includes Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. The only difference is that you take it at home.
You need a suitable test environment and the required equipment.
- Scheduling More flexible slots, including weekends
- Equipment Computer and stable internet
- ID Valid ID and biometric verification through voice or facial recognition
IELTS vs TOEFL for UK Admissions
For UK university admission, both IELTS and TOEFL are widely accepted English-language tests. The better choice depends mainly on the university and course you are applying to.
Acceptance for admission
Both IELTS and TOEFL iBT are accepted by most UK universities as proof of English proficiency. IELTS has near-universal acceptance, while TOEFL acceptance can vary by university and course. It is worth checking the specific university’s language requirements.
Test format differences
- IELTS offers Paper-based and Computer-based options, with a face-to-face Speaking test with a real examiner
- TOEFL iBT is fully computer-based, including Speaking, which is recorded rather than live
- IELTS uses a 9-band scale, while TOEFL iBT scores range from 0 to 120
Section-level requirements
Both tests assess four skills: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Universities often set minimum scores for individual sections as well as an overall score.
Common TOEFL Application Mistakes
Registering too late
Test dates and application deadlines fill up quickly, especially at popular centers. Students often register for TOEFL without leaving enough time for scores to be released and sent before the university’s application deadline.Not checking score validity
TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years. Some students submit expired scores without realizing it, which can lead to rejection or a request to retake the test.Ignoring section-level minimums
Focusing only on the overall score can be a mistake. Many universities require minimum scores in each section, Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. A student can meet the overall target but still fall short in one section.Sending scores to the wrong institution code
TOEFL requires the correct institution or department code when sending scores electronically. Using the wrong code can prevent the score from reaching the right department and cause delays.Conclusion
TOEFL requirements for UK universities vary by university, course, and study level. Students exploring TOEFL accepted universities in UK should note that undergraduate courses generally require scores of 79 to 80, while postgraduate courses often require 92 to 100. Universities may also set minimum section scores. Students should check the latest requirements, score validity, and visa rules before applying. Choosing the right test format and meeting all requirements can help avoid delays and application issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A score of 72 may be accepted by some UK universities, but higher scores are often required for competitive courses.
A TOEFL iBT score of 72 meets the B2 requirement for UK degree-level courses, with specific section score requirements.
An IELTS band score of 7.5 is generally equivalent to a TOEFL iBT total score of 100 to 107.
Both IELTS and TOEFL are widely accepted in the UK.IELTS has broader acceptance, but the choice depends on the university and course.
The registration fee for the standard TOEFL iBT exam in the United Kingdom is £195 to £200 GBP.
Neither test is necessarily tougher. The better choice depends on your strengths, test format preference, and university requirements.