The United Kingdom is one of the world’s popular study destinations for international students. Being home to world-renowned scientists like Charles Darwin, Isaac Newton, and Stephen Hawking, it is unsurprising that every year, thousands of students from all over the world come to the UK to actualize their study dreams.
For international students to gain admission to a university in the UK, one of the requirements is proof of English Language proficiency. Fortunately, most universities in the UK accept TOEFL scores.
If you are looking for the best universities in the United Kingdom accepting TOEFL scores, this article breaks down the most prestigious and sought-after institutions that acknowledge them.
TOEFL Scores Accepted at Universities in the UK
Here are some of the universities in the United Kingdom accepting TOEFL scores.
1. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities around the globe. It is renowned for its rigorous academic programs. You need to prove your English language proficiency before being admitted to the University of Oxford. However, you may be exempted from submitting proof of English Language proficiency if your first language is English or you are a resident or citizen of a majority English-speaking country.
The university allows TOEFL scores for admission, with a minimum score requirement of 100 in all qualifying test components (Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, Writing 24). All the courses require a higher level in English except Mathematics and Computer Science which accept the Standard level proficiency.
2. University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge is another well-known and highly respected institution in the United Kingdom. It is renowned for its academic excellence, and extensive history, and ranks among the top universities in the world. The university requires a minimum iBT TOEFL score of 110 for undergraduate admission and 100 for postgraduate (depending on the program applied for).
The required TOEFL scores may vary. For example, if you’re planning to take a Bachelor of Arts in Economics or a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, the minimum overall TOEFL iBT score is 110, with 25 or above in each element. On the other hand, a Master of Philosophy in Advanced Chemical Engineering or a Ph.D. in Aerosol Science requires a minimum TOEFL score of 100, with at least 25 in each element.
3. Imperial College London
Imperial College London is a science-focused university widely recognized for its research and innovation. It has a robust international reputation and attracts students from all over the world. The university acknowledges TOEFL scores for admission, with a minimum requirement of 100. The scores vary with the program of study.
If you’re taking a full-time MBA or a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Technology Ventures at Imperial College London, you will need a TOEFL overall score of 100, with minimum scores of 22 in all elements.
4. University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is one of the oldest universities in Scotland and among the top universities in Europe and the UK. The university accepts TOEFL scores as proof of English Language proficiency and requires a minimum of 92 points for admission.
For example, a Bachelor of Science in Geography requires a minimum TOEFL score of 92 points, with at least 20 in each component. On the other hand, a Master of Science in Quantitative Genetics and Genome Analysis requires a minimum TOEFL score of 100 points, with at least 20 in each component.
5. University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is a leading research university recognized for its academic excellence and strong student support. It has a diverse student body, with students from over 160 countries. This leading university in the United Kingdom also accepts TOEFL scores for undergraduate and graduate admissions.
A Master of Science in Accounting and Finance requires a minimum TOEFL score of 100 points, with at least 22 in each element. A Bachelor of Science in Accounting requires a score of 90 overall, with no less than 22 in any individual component.
6. King’s College London
King’s College London is a prestigious university with a long history of academic excellence. It is known for its dynamic research programs and commitment to innovation and social change. This university in the United Kingdom accepts TOEFL scores for admission, with a minimum requirement of 92 points. However, the minimum score requirements depend on the program of study, with the scores grouped into different levels or bands.
If you’re an applicant, make sure to check the TOEFL scores, required by your program, because it varies. For example, for programs in Band D, like a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry or Neuroscience, you will require an overall score of 92, with 23 in writing and 20 in the other skills. The English level Band C applies to postgraduate programs in the Faculty of Arts and Humanities and requires an overall score of 100 with a minimum of 23 in reading, 25 in writing, and 20 in each of the other skills.
International students from majority English-speaking countries like Canada, Jamaica, New Zealand, and the USA may not take additional English Language tests.
7. University College London
University College London is a leading research university renowned for its academic excellence and multi-disciplinary approach to learning. It has a diverse student body, with students from over 150 countries. This British university requires a minimum TOEFL score of 92 for admission, though this depends on the specific program requirements.
A Bachelor of Science in Economics requires English level 2, equivalent to an overall score of 96, with 24 points in reading and writing and 22 points in speaking and listening. On the other hand, a Master of Arts in Philosophy requires English level 4, equivalent to an overall score of 109, with 27 points in reading and writing and 23 points in speaking and listening.
FAQs: TOEFL Acceptance in the UK
What Type of TOEFL Exam is Accepted in the UK?
The most widely used TOEFL exam in the United Kingdom is the TOEFL iBT (internet-based). It measures all four language skills required in an academic setting, including listening, reading, writing, and speaking. More than 11,500 universities and institutions in several countries across the globe accept TOEFL iBT scores.
Students get to choose from the three testing options, allowing them to take the test either from a test center (via computer or paper) or home, depending on their needs and preferences.
The United Kingdom is an excellent destination for international students, and the universities listed above offer some of the best academic programs in the world. If you are considering studying in the UK, ensure you meet the required TOEFL score for admission to your chosen university. With preparation and practice, you can unlock the doors to highly esteemed higher learning institutions in the United Kingdom.
You may also find more information about the universities and scholarship opportunities in the United Kingdom on our Study in the UK and Available Programs for International Students pages.
