South Korea has become an increasingly popular destination for international students seeking higher education. One of the main requirements for those interested in studying in South Korea is proof of English language proficiency. One widely accepted measure of English proficiency is the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
However, with so many universities in South Korea, it can be overwhelming to determine which ones accept TOEFL scores. In this article, we will highlight some of the universities in South Korea that recognize TOEFL scores as proof of English proficiency, providing valuable information for prospective students looking to pursue their academic goals.
This article will aid in facilitating the academic journeys of international students and enable them to pursue their dreams of studying in South Korea, a country that offers a rich cultural heritage and a thriving economy, among other attractions.
TOEFL Scores Accepted at Universities in South Korea
1. Seoul National University
Seoul National University (SNU) is widely recognized as one of the top universities in South Korea and attracts a large number of international students from around the world. As a world-class university, SNU requires its applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English to ensure that they are prepared for the rigors of studying in an English-language academic environment.
Providing TOEFL results is one way for international applicants to demonstrate English proficiency. SNU considers the TOEFL iBT or Internet-based Test of English as one of the measures of English language proficiency.
Each program at SNU has a different minimum TOEFL score requirement for admission. A minimum TOEFL iBT score of 850 is required for undergraduate programs. Most graduate programs require a TOEFL iBT score of 85 or higher.
Here is what Seoul National University Scholars say about TOEFL:
“Since I was applying to an international program, I took the TOEFL exam to demonstrate my English proficiency and scored 116 out of 120.”
Karina
“For this scholarship, having TOEFL and TOPIK scores was important; TOPIK was optional but highly recommended.”
Ananda Eka
“I was able to submit a Certificate of English as Medium of Instruction instead of taking standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS.”
Jennifer Callanga
“I took the TOEFL, GRE, and TEPS for English language proficiency.”
Ilyas Khurshid
2. Korea University
Korea University is a private research university located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea. They have a wide range of programs that cater to both undergraduate and graduate students across various fields of study.
As an international student, you can join this institution; one way of evaluating fluency in English is by taking an English language proficiency test such as TOEFL.
The minimum TOEFL score required for undergraduate programs is usually 71 on the internet-based test (iBT). Some programs may require a higher score. For graduate programs, the minimum score required is generally between 71 on the iBT, depending on the program.
Don’t worry; the university offers plenty of resources to help you prepare for the exam and make sure you’re ready to excel in your studies.
Here is what Korea University Scholars say about TOEFL:
“When I applied, I did not have any official standardized language test scores such as TOEFL or IELTS. Instead, I submitted an English proficiency certificate issued by the English academy I attended”
Anjavola Rasolonjatovo
“For the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), which I received to pursue my undergraduate studies at Korea University, no standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, or TOEFL were required.”
Alisson Yheraldin Onzueta Caballero
“Additionally, I would prepare for IELTS/SAT/TOEFL.”
Deepak Kumar
3. Yonsei University
Located in Seoul, Yonsei University has a long history and offers a wide range of programs in different fields, including natural sciences, engineering, humanities, social sciences, medicine, and law.
International students must show their English proficiency by taking a standardized test such as TOEFL. The required minimum TOEFL score for admission to Yonsei University depends on the program you are interested in.
For undergraduate programs, the minimum TOEFL score needed is 79 (iBT). For graduate programs, the minimum TOEFL score needed is 83 (iBT). If you are also planning to participate in exchange programs or as a visiting student, you also need to prove your proficiency in English.
4. Sungkyunkwan University
Sungkyunkwan University is a renowned private research university located in Seoul, South Korea, that has been around since 1398. The institution has been providing an impressive selection of undergraduate and graduate programs, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering.
Being an international student interested in attending Sungkyunkwan University, one of the qualifying criteria is to prove your English proficiency. The university recognizes a TOEFL certificate, and it can be submitted as part of your application. Depending on the program you’re applying to, the required minimum TOEFL score may vary, but it generally falls between 80 to 100.
5. Ewha Womans University
As the world’s largest women’s university, Ewha Womans University has a rich history of empowering women through education since its founding in 1886. With an extensive selection of majors, modern facilities, and a supportive community, Ewha is the ideal place to pursue your academic and personal interests.
One of the requirements for international students who wish to apply to Ewha Womans University is to provide proof of their English language proficiency. This is necessary because all courses at the university are taught in English. The university allows applicants to submit TOEFL scores as one of the requirements.
The minimum TOEFL score required for admission to Ewha Womans University varies depending on the program and level of study. A minimum score of 80 on the internet-based TOEFL (iBT) is required for undergraduate programs. For graduate programs, the minimum score is 83 iBT.
Here is what Ewha Womans University Scholars say about TOEFL:
“I spent too much time trying to raise my TOEFL score higher than necessary, thinking a higher score would significantly strengthen my application. However, I’ve come to realize that once you meet the minimum language requirement, what truly matters is how well you present your story.”
Thai Quynh Anh Nguyen
6. Sejong University
If you’re looking for an exceptional educational experience in South Korea, Sejong University should be at the top of your list! Offering endless possibilities for students to obtain practical experience through internships, research projects, and study abroad programs. The university has outstanding academic programs and renowned faculty members.
Students planning to study at Sejong must obtain a minimum TOEFL score of 71 for undergraduate studies. If you have a higher TOEFL score, the better, as it not only meets the requirements for admission to Sejong University but also demonstrates your proficiency in the English language, which is a highly valuable skill in today’s global job market.
TOEFL Scores of Students Studying in South Korea
FAQs: TOEFL in South Korea
What Type of TOEFL Exam is Accepted in South Korea?
The most widely used TOEFL test in South Korea is the Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (iBT). The iBT TOEFL is administered online and evaluates a student’s ability to comprehend and use English in an academic setting. This four-part test, which covers reading, listening, speaking, and writing, is widely regarded as an accurate indicator of English proficiency by universities and other institutions around the world.
In South Korea, many universities and academic programs require a minimum score on the TOEFL iBT as part of their admissions process. Therefore, it is important for international students planning to study in South Korea to prepare well for this exam and achieve a score that meets their desired university’s admission requirements.
What TOEFL iBT score do Korean universities commonly require?
Requirements vary by school and program, but typical minimums for English-taught programs are in the high-70s to mid-80s.
What score should I aim for to be competitive (not just meet the minimum)?
Hitting the minimum gets you eligible; stronger scores can help with selection and funding. As a rough target, aim for 85+ for many top schools, and 95–104+ if you want to be comfortably above typical thresholds. Several universities even tier tuition waivers by English scores.
Do programs ever accept IELTS or other tests instead of TOEFL?
Yes, many Korean universities accept IELTS, TEPS, TOEIC, etc. As one example, Islamuddin (Korea University, GKS) reported “IELTS 7.5.” Korea University’s SK Global Scholarship page also lists IELTS 5.5+, CEFR B2, TEPS, or TOPIK 3+ as alternatives to TOEFL. Check the exact list and scores for your department.
TOEFL certificates serve as proof of English language proficiency and are required by many universities in South Korea. So, if you plan to pursue higher education in the country, you can prove your English proficiency by taking TOEFL!
We hope the above list of South Korean universities accepting TOEFL scores was helpful. You may also find other accepted tests to measure English language proficiency on our English Language Proficiency Exam page! Additionally, for students planning to study abroad, read relevant articles on the Study in Korea page, you can also check the several available courses that are open for international students!
