TOEFL Exam Eligibility: Everything You Need to Know Before Applying
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is one of the most widely recognized English language proficiency tests accepted by universities, immigration authorities, and licensing bodies across the globe.
If you are planning to study, work, or immigrate to an English-speaking country, the TOEFL may be a required step.
Before registering, it is crucial to understand whether you meet the TOEFL eligibility criteria. This blog provides a complete, in-depth explanation of the eligibility requirements for the TOEFL exam, ensuring you are well-prepared and fully informed.
TOEFL Exam Eligibility Criteria
There are no specific eligibility criteria set by ETS for the TOEFL Exam. Simply put, anyone older than 16 years of age can take the TOEFL Exam!
To appear for the TOEFL exam in 2025, you must confirm the following things:
1. Age Limit
There is no official age limit for the TOEFL exam. However, it is generally taken by students aged 16 and above.
2. Educational Qualification
Candidates should have completed at least a high school-level education (10+2) or equivalent to qualify for the test.
3. Score Requirements
TOEFL does not have a minimum score requirement. It may depend on the institution or organization as applied.
4. Citizenship or Nationality
The TOEFL is open to candidates from all nationalities, as long as they have a valid government-issued ID.
5. Language
It doesn't matter which language you speak; the exam is designed for non-English speakers.
6. Documents Required
A printout of the confirmation form that includes the registration number, a photo identification card, and a valid passport.
These requirements make the TOEFL accessible to a wide range of candidates worldwide. It is also advisable to always verify with your target institutions for specific guidelines or additional requirements.
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What is the Minimum Educational Qualification for TOEFL Exam?
Candidates are typically expected to have completed their 10+2 level of schooling (high school) from a registered board or institution or equivalent to qualify for the test. ETS does not mandate any specific educational qualifications to register for the TOEFL exam.
Documents Required for the TOEFL Exam
To register and appear for the TOEFL exam, you need to have the following documents ready:
Valid ID Proof: A government-issued identification document, such as a passport, is mandatory. The ID must be valid, original, and not expired.
TOEFL Registration Confirmation: Keep a printout or digital copy of your registration confirmation for verification at the test centre.
Passport-Sized Photograph: While not always required, some test centres may ask for recent passport-size photographs.
Payment Receipt (Additional): You may also carry proof of payment for your exam registration fee as a backup.
Ensure all documents are accurate and match the information provided during registration to avoid any discrepancies on the test day and you are all set!
Note: Candidates aged 16 or younger should be accompanied by their parents who will be required to complete and sign a release form at the test centre. Both, the minor candidate and the parent must present a valid, acceptable ID, or you will not be able to take the test.
Minimum Age Requirement to Appear for the TOEFL Exam
While ETS does not enforce an official minimum age for the TOEFL exam, institutions and universities often expect applicants to be of a certain academic level.
Generally, students planning to apply for undergraduate courses are expected to be at least 16 years old.
Recommended Age by Study Level
Study Level | Recommended Minimum Age |
|---|---|
High School Students | 15–16 years |
Undergraduate (UG) | 16–17 years |
Postgraduate (PG) | 20+ years |
Students below the age of 15 are advised to take the TOEFL Primary or TOEFL Junior exams, which are better aligned with their comprehension level.
TOEFL Eligibility Criteria for Home Edition
The TOEFL iBT Home Edition is a proctored, monitored version of the test designed to be taken from the comfort of your home. To ensure a smooth experience, candidates must meet the following eligibility and setup requirements before appearing for the exam:
Age and Education: There is no specific age limit, but it is recommended for candidates aged 16 and above with at least a high school-level education (i.e 10+2).
System Requirements: Download and install the ProctorU® Guardian Browser for test-day communication with the proctor.
Equipment Requirements:
Functional Desktop PC or Laptop: Tablets and mobile devices are not recommended.
Speakers: For listening tests, internal or external speakers and microphones are recommended. Avoid using headsets or earphones.
Webcam: Built-in or external webcam that can be moved to show a 360-degree view of the room and workspace.
Good Internet Connection.
Environment and Testing Space:
Avoid giving the test in public spaces like parks, cafes, or restaurants.
Give the test in a private room and keep doors closed. Position your table and chair so the door is visible on camera.
Food, drinks, and unauthorized materials like cell phones and notes are not permitted.
Your ears and face must remain visible throughout the test. Religious headwear is allowed if ears remain uncovered.
Dress appropriately as your photo will be shared with institutions receiving your scores.
For Note-Taking: Note-taking on paper is prohibited for security reasons. You may use: A small desktop whiteboard or a sheet of paper inside a transparent sheet protector with an erasable marker. All notes must be erased in front of the proctor at the end of the test.
For a more detailed explanation of system requirements and other guidelines, you can also visit the ETS official website to ensure you meet all prerequisites for the TOEFL iBT Home Edition.
TOEFL Exam Eligibility for Retakes
ETS allows candidates to retake the TOEFL exam as many times as they like, but remember that you can't take it more than once within 3 days. If you're not satisfied with your first attempt, you can retake the exam to improve your score.
Each re-attempt requires a new registration and payment of the exam fee, however, use the same credentials as your previous registration to maintain consistency.
TOEFL Eligibility for Scholarships
Achieving a high TOEFL score can open the door to numerous scholarship opportunities for students aiming to reduce their financial burden while studying abroad. Many institutions and organizations offer scholarships to students based on their TOEFL scores.
Here's what you need to know about TOEFL eligibility for scholarships:
Minimum TOEFL Score: Scholarships often require a minimum score, typically ranging between 80 and 110 GPA on the TOEFL iBT.
Nationality: The candidate must be a resident of India and apply to a university or college listed in the TOEFL Destination Search.
Academic Qualification: Apart from TOEFL scores, a strong academic record is usually necessary to qualify for scholarships.
Other Documents Required: Additional documents like personal statements, recommendation letters, and proof of financial need may also be required as per the university or scholarship eligibility.
Field of Study: Certain scholarships are tied to specific fields of study or degree programs or country, so ensure you meet those criteria.
What is TOEFL Eligibility for Disabled Candidates?
ETS provides accommodations to ensure that candidates with disabilities or health-related needs have equal access to the TOEFL exam. For academic year 2025-26, here are the key details you need to know about their eligibility criteria in 2025:
General Eligibility: There are no specific restrictions for disabled candidates regarding age or educational qualifications to take the TOEFL exam. The usual eligibility criteria apply to all candidates.
Accommodations Available: ETS offers a variety of accommodations for candidates with disabilities or health-related needs, including technical accommodations, large prints, extended time, and breaks. Briefly, it includes the following facilities:
Extended testing time with additional breaks.
Use of assistive technology like screen magnification or screen readers.
Braille, audio or large print versions of test materials.
Listening and Speaking sessions are omitted.
Use of a specialised reader, writer or sign language interpreter.
Assistive listening devices or written instructions.
How to Apply for Accommodations:
Candidates must submit an accommodation request through their registered ETS account.
Supporting documentation of the disability or health condition must be provided as part of the application process.
Approval for accommodations can take up to 4-6 weeks, so it's recommended to apply well in advance of the intended test date.
Accessible Testing Locations: ETS ensures that testing centres with accommodations are equipped to support candidates with disabilities. The TOEFL Home Edition also allows for accommodations for eligible candidates.
What is the Minimum TOEFL Score Required by Top Universities?
The minimum TOEFL score required to qualify for top universities typically varies depending on the institution, program, and level of study. Here's an overview of the minimum scores required by some of the most prestigious universities worldwide:
University | TOEFL Score |
|---|---|
Harvard University | 100 or above |
Stanford University | 100 or above |
University of Oxford | 110 or above |
University of Cambridge | 100 or above |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 90 or above |
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | 105 or above |
University of California, Berkeley | 80-100 |
These scores serve as a guideline that can help you understand the level of preparation needed to qualify for your dream university. Always refer to the official university website for more accurate and up-to-date information regarding any exam or admission requirements.
Country-Specific Eligibility Guidelines for TOEFL Exam
Though ETS maintains a universal eligibility framework, certain countries or institutions may have unique expectations. These are usually tied to their academic systems or visa requirements.
Country-wise Additional Eligibility Guidelines
Country | Typical Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
USA | 10+2 | Expected for UG admissions |
Canada | 10+2 | Also required for college applications |
UK | Varies | Some universities prefer IELTS |
Japan | None officially | Score benchmarks may vary widely |
Germany | UG degree for PG | English-taught courses often need TOEFL |
Always check the official admission requirements of your target institution before applying.
Is TOEFL Eligibility Different for Internet-Based and Paper-Based Tests?
The TOEFL is primarily delivered in two formats:
TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test)
TOEFL Paper-Delivered Test (limited availability)
Eligibility Differences?
There are no differences in eligibility criteria for the two formats. However, candidates should note:
Feature | TOEFL iBT | TOEFL PBT |
|---|---|---|
Availability | Global | Selected locations |
Mode | Online at test center or home | Paper format |
Eligibility Requirements | Same for both | Same for both |
Choose the format based on availability and comfort with the mode of testing.
To register for your preferred test mode, check this guide out: TOEFL Registration Guide.
Common Misconceptions Around TOEFL Eligibility Criteria
Many myths circulate about who can and cannot take the TOEFL exam. Here’s a quick myth-busting guide:
Top 5 Misconceptions
Myth: Only students can take the TOEFL.
Fact: Professionals and migrants can also apply.
Myth: A college degree is required.
Fact: Not true; no formal education needed.
Myth: There is an upper age limit.
Fact: TOEFL has no maximum age restriction.
Myth: You must have taken English in school.
Fact: English background is helpful but not mandatory.
Myth: A TOEFL score is only for universities.
Fact: It’s accepted by immigration and licensing bodies too.
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