Table of Contents
Introduction
Wondering if a TOEFL score of 80 or less can still get you into a college abroad? Well, you’ve come to the perfect spot to find out! This guide is all about showing you how a TOEFL score of 80 or below might actually be enough for you to get into your dream college. We’re going to share a bunch of universities that are happy to welcome students who’ve scored anywhere from 70 to 80 on their TOEFL test.
Maybe you’re still getting ready for your TOEFL, or perhaps you’ve already taken it and are now thinking about what comes next. No matter where you are in your journey, we’re here to chat about what your scores can mean for your future. It’s important to remember that moving forward, even just a little, is a big step towards reaching the goals you have for your education.
TOEFL stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language. It’s a test that measures how well you can use and understand English in a school setting. Colleges and universities use your TOEFL score to decide if your English is good enough to do well in their classes. But here’s the thing: not every school is looking for the same score. Some might want really high scores, but many others believe that students with scores of 80 or less have a lot of potential too.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about TOEFL scores, especially if yours is 80 or under. We’ll look at whether this score can work in your favor and introduce you to a list of colleges that think a score like yours is just fine. If you’re still preparing for the TOEFL, we’ll offer some tips to help you out. And if you’ve already got your score, we’ll help you figure out what to do next.
Remember, every step you take is a step closer to your dream school. So, let’s dive in and explore all the possibilities that your TOEFL score can unlock for you!
Is Having a Score of 80 or Less Good Enough?
When you’re thinking about studying in a college where English is the main language, your TOEFL score can feel like a big deal. But what if your score is 80 or less? Is that score good enough to get you into a college? Let’s take a closer look and break it down into simpler parts.
Understanding TOEFL Scores
First things first, the TOEFL test is all about checking how well you can use and understand English. It gives you a score between 0 and 120. If you get an 80, that’s in the middle range – not too high, but definitely not too low either. Some people might tell you that you need a super high score to go to college, but that’s not always true. Let’s find out why.
Benchmark for Universities
Not every university is chasing after the highest scores. Yes, the very famous ones might want higher scores, but there are lots of great colleges out there that are happy to accept students with scores of 80 or below. These schools are more interested in finding students who are a good match for what they offer. They know that a number doesn’t tell everything about you or your potential to succeed.
Beyond the Score
Colleges know that there’s more to you than just your TOEFL score. They want to see what else you bring to the table. Things like your grades from school, the kind of person you are (which they can learn from your recommendation letters), and what you talk about in your application essays. All these parts of your application tell a story about you. So, even if your TOEFL score isn’t the highest, you still have a chance to show colleges how amazing you are.
Improving Your Chances
If your score has you worried, remember you can always try the TOEFL again to get a higher score. But don’t stop there! Make sure the other parts of your college application are strong too. Keep up your grades, find people who can write great recommendation letters for you, and put your heart into your essays. When colleges see your hard work and how determined you are, your TOEFL score becomes just one small part of the big picture.
In short, having a TOEFL score of 80 or less isn’t the end of the road. It’s actually a pretty solid score, and many colleges will be glad to consider your application. It’s all about showing them what makes you special, beyond just a number. Remember, your journey to college is about the whole you, not just one test score.
List of Universities Accepting TOEFL Score 70 or below through 80
|
University Name |
TOEFL Score Range |
Location |
Simple Explanation |
|
State University Example |
70-80 |
Texas |
This university in Texas accepts students who score between 70 and 80 on their TOEFL. It’s a friendly place for students from all over the world. They believe in giving everyone a chance to study and grow. |
|
City College Example |
75-80 |
New York |
In the heart of New York, this college looks for TOEFL scores from 75 to 80. They like students who try hard and are ready to learn in a busy city. |
|
Community College Example |
70-75 |
California |
This college in California is okay with TOEFL scores between 70 and 75. It’s perfect for students looking for a supportive place to start their college journey in the U.S. |
|
Technical Institute Example |
70-80 |
Florida |
This institute in Florida welcomes students with TOEFL scores from 70 to 80. They focus on teaching practical skills and preparing students for real-world jobs. |
|
Liberal Arts College Example |
70-80 |
Illinois |
A college in Illinois that accepts scores between 70 and 80. They value creativity and open-minded students who want to explore different subjects. |
|
College |
Score Range |
|
University of Pacific |
53-70 |
|
Oregon State University |
53 |
|
University of New Castle |
60 |
|
Pittsburgh State University |
60 |
|
Arizona State University |
61 |
|
Bowling Green State University |
61 |
|
University of Wollongong |
61 |
|
Cleveland State University |
65 |
|
East Tennessee State University |
65 |
|
Deakin University |
65 |
|
University of New Mexico |
68 |
|
Clark University Worcester |
60-69 |
|
University of Tulsa |
70 |
|
University of Montana |
70 |
|
Golden Gate University |
71 |
|
Ohio State University |
71 |
|
Indiana State University |
71 |
|
University of Manchester |
72 |
|
King’s College, London |
72 |
|
University of Bath |
72 |
|
University of St. Andrews |
75 |
|
Lehigh University |
75 |
|
California Institute of Technology |
78 |
|
Dartmouth College |
78 |
|
University of East Anglia |
79 |
|
University of Melbourne |
79 |
|
The University of Adelaide |
79 |
|
RMIT University |
79 |
|
University of York |
79-80 |
|
McGill University |
79 and above |
|
University of Auckland |
80 |
|
University of Canterbury |
80 |
|
University of Otago |
80 |
|
Auckland University of Technology |
80 |
|
University of Waikato |
80 |
Key Takeaways
1. TOEFL Score Acceptance: Many universities across the USA and globally accept TOEFL scores of 80 and below, showing flexibility in their admissions processes to accommodate a diverse range of students.
2. Understanding TOEFL Scores: A TOEFL score out of 120 assesses English proficiency, and while higher scores are often sought after, scores around 70 to 80 can also be sufficient for many reputable institutions.
3. Holistic Admissions: Colleges consider more than just TOEFL scores; they also evaluate academic records, recommendation letters, and personal essays, allowing students to showcase their full potential beyond standardized tests.
4. Improving Admission Chances: Besides aiming for higher TOEFL scores, strengthening other application components like essays and recommendations can significantly boost admission chances.
5. Retaking the TOEFL: For those unsatisfied with their scores, retaking the TOEFL is an option. Continuous preparation can lead to improvement, showcasing dedication to mastering English.
6. Global Opportunities: Institutions worldwide, not just in the USA, have varying TOEFL score requirements, opening up a broad spectrum of opportunities for international education.
7. Pathway Programs: Some universities offer foundation or pathway programs for students slightly below their TOEFL requirements, leading to full admission upon successful completion.
8. Resourcefulness: Students should research and apply to colleges that match their TOEFL scores, academic interests, and career goals, utilizing the flexibility of different institutions’ requirements.
9. Preparation Resources: Engaging in thorough TOEFL preparation, utilizing available resources, and practicing English in practical settings can help improve scores and confidence in using the language.
10. Staying Positive and Motivated: Maintaining a positive outlook and staying motivated throughout the preparation and application process is crucial. Every student has a unique journey, and persistence can lead to finding the right college fit.
FAQ
-
What is a TOEFL score?
TOEFL stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language. It’s a test that measures how well you can read, listen, speak, and write in English. The score ranges from 0 to 120.
-
Can I go to college with a TOEFL score of 80 or less?
Yes, many colleges accept students with TOEFL scores of 80 or below. They understand that a test score doesn’t tell everything about your ability to succeed in college.
-
How do I find colleges that accept TOEFL scores of 80 or below?
You can search online for colleges and their TOEFL score requirements, visit college websites directly, or use college search tools that let you filter schools by test score requirements.
-
Do all colleges require the TOEFL?
Not all, but many colleges, especially in English-speaking countries, require the TOEFL for students from countries where English is not the primary language.
-
Is a higher TOEFL score better?
A higher TOEFL score can improve your chances at more selective schools, but many excellent colleges accept scores of 80 or below. Focus on matching with colleges that fit your score and other interests.
-
Can I retake the TOEFL if I get a low score?
Yes, you can retake the TOEFL if you’re not happy with your score. You can take the test again to try and get a higher score.
-
What else do colleges look at besides TOEFL scores?
Colleges also consider your school grades, recommendation letters, extracurricular activities, and essays. They want to see the full picture of who you are, not just your test scores.
-
If my TOEFL score is below 80, should I only apply to colleges with low TOEFL requirements?
While you should consider colleges with requirements that match your score, also look at schools that consider your application as a whole. Some colleges may offer conditional acceptance or language support programs.
-
How can I improve my TOEFL score?
Practice English every day, use TOEFL preparation books and online resources, take practice tests, and try to use English in real-life situations to improve your skills.
-
Are there scholarships for students with TOEFL scores of 80 or below?
Scholarships depend on the college and other factors besides just your TOEFL score, like your academic record or special talents. Always check with the college or scholarship provider for their requirements.
In conclusion, learning English for the TOEFL test is a journey that opens many doors. Remember, every step you take in learning and practicing English helps you get closer to your goal. Just like understanding science for the SAT, mastering English for the TOEFL is about building strong skills.
Do not worry if English seems hard at first. With regular practice and determination, you will get better. Read books, listen to English songs, watch movies in English, and try to speak and write in English every day. These activities will improve your language skills.
Remember, every effort you make counts. Keep your goal in mind, stay motivated, and practice as much as you can. With time and effort, you can achieve a good score in TOEFL and move forward in your academic and professional journey. Good luck, and believe in yourself!
