If you’re researching TOEFL scores, you’ve picked an interesting time. As of January 21, 2026, the TOEFL uses a completely new scoring system—a 1-6 band scale that replaces the familiar 0-120 total score you may have seen in older resources.
Don’t worry. In this guide, we’ll explain exactly how the new TOEFL scores work, show you what universities require (with both old and new scale equivalents), and help you navigate the transition period. The bottom line? A “good” TOEFL score still depends on your target schools—but now you have two ways to understand what that means.
Table of Contents
The New TOEFL Scoring System (2026)
Starting January 21, 2026, all TOEFL iBT tests use a new scoring framework designed to align with international language proficiency standards.
How the New Scale Works
The TOEFL now uses a 1-6 band scale with half-point increments (1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and so on up to 6.0). Each of the four sections—Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing—receives its own 1-6 score. Your overall TOEFL score is calculated as the average of your four section scores, rounded to the nearest half band.
For example, if you scored 5.0 in Reading, 4.5 in Listening, 5.0 in Speaking, and 4.5 in Writing, your overall score would be 4.75, which rounds to 4.5.
CEFR Alignment
One major benefit of the new system is its alignment with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This internationally recognized standard makes it easier to compare your English proficiency with other tests like IELTS and Cambridge exams.
Here’s how the old and new scores compare:
| Old Total (0-120) | New Scale (1-6) | CEFR Level | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 114-120 | 6.0 | C2 | Mastery |
| 107-113 | 5.5 | C1-C2 | Advanced-Mastery |
| 95-106 | 5.0 | C1 | Advanced |
| 86-94 | 4.5 | B2-C1 | Upper Intermediate-Advanced |
| 72-85 | 4.0 | B2 | Upper Intermediate |
| 58-71 | 3.5 | B1 | Intermediate |
| Below 58 | Below 3.5 | A2-B1 | Basic |
Pro tip: The CEFR alignment is particularly helpful if you’re also considering IELTS or planning to study or work in Europe, where CEFR levels are widely understood.
For the official details on the new scoring system, see ETS’s TOEFL scoring information.
What Are Good TOEFL Scores?
When it comes to TOEFL scores, the answer depends entirely on where you’re applying. But here are some general benchmarks on the new scale:
- 5.0+ (equivalent to old 95+): Competitive for top-tier programs at selective universities
- 4.5 (equivalent to old 86-94): Solid for many undergraduate and graduate programs
- 4.0 (equivalent to old 72-85): Meets the minimum for most universities
- Below 4.0: May limit your options at more selective schools
Keep in mind that “minimum” doesn’t mean “competitive.” Many programs list minimum requirements but expect successful applicants to score higher. Always research your specific target schools.
For a deeper dive into what score you should aim for, check out our guide on what is a good TOEFL score.
Want to see where you stand? Take our free TOEFL practice test—built entirely from official ETS questions—to get a sense of your current level.
TOEFL Scores Required for Undergraduate Programs
Important: The TOEFL scores shown below are based on the previous 0-120 scoring scale. We’ve added estimated new-scale equivalents based on ETS conversion data, but universities may publish updated requirements as they adapt to the 2026 changes. Always verify directly with your target schools.
Here are TOEFL requirements for popular undergraduate programs:
| University | Old Minimum (0-120) | New Equivalent (~1-6) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| MIT | 90 | ~4.5 | No minimum per section stated |
| Caltech | 100 | ~5.0 | |
| Stanford | 100 | ~5.0 | Recommended |
| Harvard | 100 | ~5.0 | Recommended, no absolute minimum |
| Yale | 100 | ~5.0 | |
| Princeton | N/A | N/A | No minimum stated |
| Columbia | 100 | ~5.0 | |
| University of Chicago | 100 | ~5.0 | |
| Duke | 100 | ~5.0 | |
| Northwestern | 100 | ~5.0 | |
| Brown | 100 | ~5.0 | |
| Cornell | 100 | ~5.0 | |
| Rice | 100 | ~5.0 | 90 minimum for each section |
| Carnegie Mellon | 102 | ~5.0 | Varies by college |
| UCLA | 100 | ~5.0 | Section minimums apply |
| UC Berkeley | 80 | ~4.0 | |
| NYU | 100 | ~5.0 | |
| USC | 100 | ~5.0 | Section minimums apply |
| Boston University | 90 | ~4.5 | |
| Penn State | 80 | ~4.0 |
A few things to keep in mind:
Section minimums matter at some schools. Schools like Rice, UCLA, and USC require minimum scores in each section, not just the total. Make sure you check whether your target schools have these requirements.
“No minimum stated” isn’t always good news. Schools like Princeton that don’t list minimums may evaluate your English proficiency holistically—but that doesn’t mean a low score won’t hurt your application.
Requirements change. Always verify directly with the admissions office or the school’s official website, especially during this transition period.
TOEFL Scores Required for Graduate Programs
Important: The TOEFL scores shown below are based on the previous 0-120 scoring scale. We’ve added estimated new-scale equivalents based on ETS conversion data, but universities may publish updated requirements as they adapt to the 2026 changes. Always verify directly with your target schools.
Graduate programs often have different requirements depending on the specific school or department. Here are requirements for popular graduate programs:
| Program/School | Old Minimum (0-120) | New Equivalent (~1-6) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard Business School | 109 | ~5.0 | MBA |
| Stanford GSB | 100 | ~5.0 | MBA |
| Wharton (UPenn) | 100 | ~5.0 | MBA |
| MIT Sloan | 100 | ~5.0 | MBA |
| Columbia Business School | 100 | ~5.0 | MBA |
| Berkeley Haas | 90 | ~4.5 | MBA |
| Yale School of Management | 100 | ~5.0 | MBA |
| Northwestern Kellogg | 100 | ~5.0 | MBA |
| Duke Fuqua | 100 | ~5.0 | MBA |
| Michigan Ross | 100 | ~5.0 | MBA |
| Stanford Engineering | 89 | ~4.5 | MS/PhD, varies by dept |
| MIT Engineering | 90 | ~4.5 | Varies by department |
| UC Berkeley Engineering | 90 | ~4.5 | |
| Harvard Law School | 100 | ~5.0 | JD |
| Yale Law School | 100 | ~5.0 | JD |
| Stanford Law School | 100 | ~5.0 | JD |
| Columbia Law School | 105 | ~5.0 | JD |
| Harvard Medical School | 100 | ~5.0 | MD |
Pro tip: For graduate programs, check both the general admissions page AND your specific department’s requirements. A university’s graduate school might state one minimum, but your target department could have a higher bar—especially for programs involving significant research or teaching assistant responsibilities.
Keep in mind that some graduate programs accept IELTS as an alternative to TOEFL. If you’re considering both tests, check which one your target schools prefer.
Understanding the Transition Period (2026-2028)
The switch to the new scoring system is happening gradually. Here’s what you need to know about the transition period.
Dual Score Reporting
During 2026-2028, your TOEFL score report will show both the new 1-6 scale and the familiar 0-120 scale. This means universities can interpret your score in whichever format they prefer—you don’t need to worry about manual conversions.
How Universities Are Adapting
Most universities haven’t updated their published requirements yet. During the transition, you’ll likely see:
- Schools continuing to list requirements in the old 0-120 format
- Gradual updates to websites showing new-scale requirements
- Admissions offices accepting scores in either format
This is normal. The dual reporting on your score report ensures universities can evaluate your score regardless of which scale they’re using.
What This Means for You
If you’re taking the TOEFL now, here’s the practical takeaway:
- Your score report automatically shows both scales
- You don’t need to convert anything yourself
- If a school lists an old-scale requirement, you can use our conversion table to estimate your target
- When in doubt, contact the admissions office
MyBest Scores
MyBest scores—your highest section scores from all valid test dates combined—continue to be reported on your score report. Schools that accept MyBest scores can still use them during the transition period.
Score Validity
TOEFL scores remain valid for two years from your test date, regardless of which scoring system was in effect when you took the test. If you took the TOEFL before January 2026, your old-scale scores are still valid until they expire.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the new TOEFL scoring system start?
The new 1-6 band scoring system launched on January 21, 2026. All TOEFL iBT tests taken on or after this date use the new scale. Tests taken before this date used the 0-120 scale.
Will universities still accept scores on the old 0-120 scale?
Yes, especially during the transition period (2026-2028). Score reports from before January 2026 remain valid for two years from your test date. Additionally, score reports from after January 2026 show both scales, so universities can interpret your score in whichever format they prefer.
How do I convert my old TOEFL score to the new scale?
Use the conversion table earlier in this guide, or refer to ETS official documentation. As a quick reference: 95-106 old = 5.0 new, 86-94 old = 4.5 new, 72-85 old = 4.0 new, 58-71 old = 3.5 new.
Do section scores also use the new 1-6 scale?
Yes. Each of the four sections (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing) receives a score from 1.0 to 6.0 in half-point increments. Your overall score is the average of these four section scores, rounded to the nearest half band.
What if my target school hasn’t updated their TOEFL requirements?
Most schools are still showing requirements in the old 0-120 scale—this is normal during the transition. Use our conversion table to estimate the equivalent on the new scale. Since your score report shows both scales automatically, schools can evaluate your score in either format. If you’re uncertain about what a school expects, contact their admissions office directly.
What does CEFR alignment mean for my TOEFL score?
CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) is an international standard for describing language ability, used widely in Europe and increasingly around the world. The new TOEFL scale aligns directly with CEFR levels (B1, B2, C1, C2), making it easier to compare your proficiency with other English tests and communicate your language ability to international employers or institutions.
Next Steps
The 2026 TOEFL scoring change might feel confusing at first, but the transition is designed to be smooth. Your score report will show both scales, universities are adapting, and your scores remain valid for two years.
Focus on what matters most: reaching the score your target schools require. Whether that’s a 5.0 on the new scale or 100 on the old scale, the preparation is the same—building your English skills through consistent practice.
Ready to start preparing? Magoosh TOEFL Prep features 100% official ETS questions, expert video lessons, and instant feedback on speaking and writing to help you reach your target score.
