TOEFL Scores Look Different—Here's What Students Need to Know

If you’ve been researching universities recently, you may have noticed something confusing. Some institutions list TOEFL iBT requirements using the traditional 0–120 score, while others use the newer 1–6 proficiency scale. At first glance, this difference can make students wonder if admission requirements have changed.

Fortunately, the answer is simple. Universities continue to recognize and accept the TOEFL iBT. The different score formats reflect an ongoing transition, not a change in the value of the exam. As colleges and universities update their websites at different times, both scoring systems may appear during this period.

At OHLA Schools, we help students build the English skills they need to achieve their academic goals. Whether students plan to take the TOEFL iBT or qualify for university through one of our University Pathway Programs, understanding today’s English language requirements is an important first step.

In this guide, we’ll explain why TOEFL score formats look different, what the new scoring scale means, and how students can confidently plan their path to higher education.

Why Students Are Seeing Different TOEFL Scores

If you’ve been researching university admission requirements, you may have noticed that TOEFL score requirements don’t always look the same.

Some universities display the familiar 0–120 TOEFL iBT score. Others have already adopted the new 1–6 proficiency scale. In some cases, you’ll even see both score formats on the same admissions page.

At first, this can be confusing. The good news is that there’s no need to worry.

Why did the score display change?

In January 2026, ETS introduced an updated TOEFL iBT experience. As part of this update, the exam adopted a new 1–6 proficiency score scale, aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). ETS also refreshed some question types and introduced a more streamlined testing experience.

Although the test evolved, its purpose remained the same: measuring the English skills students need to succeed in an academic environment.

Why do universities show different scores?

Universities update their websites on different timelines.

Because of this, you may find:

Only the traditional 0–120 TOEFL iBT score
Only the new 1–6 proficiency scale
Both score formats displayed together

All of these are normal during the transition.

Does this affect university admissions?

No. Universities continue to recognize official TOEFL iBT scores, regardless of which score format appears on their admissions pages. The different displays simply reflect where each institution is in the update process.

What should students do?

Instead of worrying about the score format, focus on meeting the university’s English language requirement.

If you’re ever unsure how your TOEFL score aligns with a university’s admission criteria, contact the institution directly or use the official TOEFL resources to verify the requirement.

Old vs. New TOEFL Score Scale

At first glance, the new TOEFL iBT scores may look very different. However, the two scoring systems measure the same level of English proficiency. The table below compares the new scale with the previous score scale.

How do the scores compare?

New Score (1–6)	Previous Score (0–120)	CEFR Level
6.0	114–120	C2
5.5	107–113	C1–C2
5.0	95–106	C1
4.5	86–94	B2–C1
4.0	72–85	B2
3.5	58–71	B1–B2
3.0	44–57	B1
2.5	34–43	A2–B1
2.0	24–33	A2
1.5	12–23	A1–A2
1.0	0–11	A1

What is considered a good TOEFL score?

The answer depends on your academic goals.

For example, some pathway programs and community colleges may accept scores around 60–78. Many undergraduate programs look for scores between 79 and 93. Meanwhile, competitive universities and graduate programs often expect scores of 94 or higher.

However, every institution sets its own admission requirements. Some universities also require minimum scores in Reading, Listening, Speaking, or Writing. Therefore, always check the requirements for the program you plan to attend.

If you’re planning to study through an OHLA Schools University Pathway Program, there’s another option to consider. Instead of taking the TOEFL or IELTS, students can qualify for direct university admission by successfully completing OHLA’s Academic English Program. Students who reach Advanced 2 can progress to participating bachelor’s degree programs, while those who achieve Elite qualify for master’s degree programs at our partner universities.

This pathway allows students to build their academic English skills in a classroom environment while preparing for university-level study, without the pressure of achieving a specific TOEFL or IELTS score.

The most important takeaway is simple: whether a university asks for a TOEFL score of 90 or a Level 5, it is referring to the same TOEFL iBT exam. And if standardized testing isn’t the right fit for you, an OHLA University Pathway Program may provide an alternative route to achieving your higher education goals.

How to Check Whether a University Accepts TOEFL

Before you submit your application, take a few minutes to verify the university’s English language requirements. Doing so can save you time and help you plan your next steps with confidence.

If you’re applying with a TOEFL iBT score, the easiest place to start is the official ETS Destination Search Tool. It allows you to search thousands of institutions around the world that recognize TOEFL for admission.

Search universities that accept TOEFL iBT:

👉 ETS Destination Search Tool

If you’re considering an OHLA Schools University Pathway Program, you have another option. Instead of submitting a TOEFL or IELTS score, you may qualify for direct admission by completing OHLA’s Academic English Program and meeting the required proficiency level.

To explore the universities that recognize the OHLA English Program for direct entry, visit our University Pathway page:

Explore OHLA University Pathway Partners:

👉 OHLA University Pathway Partners

Finally, if you’re unsure which option best fits your goals, our admissions team is here to help. We can explain each pathway, review university requirements, and help you choose the route that aligns with your academic plans.

Your Path to University Starts with the Right English Preparation

Every student’s journey to university is different. Some students choose to demonstrate their English proficiency through the TOEFL iBT. Others prefer to complete an approved English pathway program.

Both options can lead to the same goal: university admission.

At OHLA Schools, we proudly support students pursuing higher education through either route. In fact, our Global Strategic Partnership with TOEFL reflects a shared commitment to helping students access universities in the U.S.

For nearly 30 years, OHLA has prepared students for academic success by developing the English skills they need to thrive in college and university classrooms.

Students who choose the OHLA University Pathway Program have an alternative to standardized English testing. After successfully completing our Academic English Program, they can qualify for direct admission to participating universities without taking the TOEFL or IELTS.

The required levels are straightforward:

Advanced 2 – Eligible for participating bachelor’s degree programs.
Elite – Eligible for participating master’s degree programs.

Today, more than 100 U.S. universities recognize OHLA’s Academic English Program for direct admission. As a result, students have multiple pathways to continue their education.

Final Thoughts

The updated TOEFL iBT score scale makes it easier for students and universities to understand English proficiency. While you may see different score formats during the transition period, the purpose of the exam hasn’t changed. Universities around the world continue to recognize the TOEFL iBT as a trusted measure of academic English skills.

If you’re planning to study in the United States, understanding your English language options is an important first step. Whether you choose the TOEFL iBT or an OHLA University Pathway Program, selecting the right preparation can help you reach your academic goals with confidence.

Take the next step with OHLA Schools. For nearly 30 years, we’ve helped students achieve their university dreams through award-winning English programs and University Pathway partnerships with more than 100 U.S. institutions. Explore your options today and discover the pathway that’s right for you.

TOEFL Scores Look Different—Here’s What Students Need to Know