Every university on this list publishes its own TOEFL minimum, and some care more about specific section scores than the overall band. The table below shows the headline requirement for each school on the new 2026 scale, with the old 0-120 equivalent. Click through to the full page for program-specific requirements, section-score expectations, and preparation strategy.
Not sure what band you are aiming for? Try the free TOEFL Score Interpreter to see where you stand.
2026 TOEFL Requirements Table
| University | Minimum Band | Old Scale (0-120) | Programs | Full Guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard University | 5.5 | 109+ | MBA, PhD, Undergrad | TOEFL for Harvard → |
| Stanford University | 4.5 | 90+ | MBA, PhD, Undergrad | TOEFL for Stanford → |
| Bocconi University | 4.0 | 72+ | Bachelor (English), MBA | TOEFL for Bocconi → |
| INSEAD | 5.0 | 95+ | MBA | TOEFL for INSEAD → |
| IESE Business School | 4.5-5.0 | 86-95+ | MBA, Bachelor | TOEFL for IESE → |
| NYU Abu Dhabi | 5.0 | 95+ | Undergrad (all) | TOEFL for NYU Abu Dhabi → |
Requirements shown are the stated or observed competitive minimum as of 2026. Always confirm the current requirement on each university's official admissions page. Band equivalents follow the official ETS 2026 score scale.
For the full band-by-band breakdown with CEFR levels and the old-scale conversion chart, see our TOEFL 2026 Score Guide.
Need to convert an old 0-120 score? Use the TOEFL Score Converter.
How to Use This Guide
- Pick your target university from the table above and note the minimum band required for your program.
- Take the Score Interpreter in our TOEFL 2026 Score Guide to see your current estimated band level.
- Compare your band to the target. If your estimated band is below the requirement, focus your preparation on the weakest section first. Section-level weaknesses pull down the overall band more than you expect.
- Start practicing. Use the free TOEFL practice drills on this site to work on Reading and Listening right now, with no account required. For full-length mock exams across all four sections with Eppy AI grading, create a free account on the PrepDrills TOEFL app.
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