Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 1 November 2026
Cal State LA TOEFL minimums by level
From the English language proficiency page and the Electrical Engineering MS admission page.
| Level or programme | TOEFL iBT minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 3.5 (on or after 21 Jan 2026); 61 (before) | |
| Graduate and post-baccalaureate | 4.0 (on or after 21 Jan 2026); 80 (before) | |
| TESOL programme | 5.0; 100 (before) | |
| MS Electrical Engineering | 80 iBT | Department page gives the old-scale figure only |
How Cal State LA handles TOEFL scores
Scores are valid for two years from the test date and must be sent directly to Cal State LA by the testing agency, using institutional code 4399. The page does not mention MyBest, Essentials or the Home Edition.
For comparison, the English language proficiency page sets IELTS at band 5.5 for undergraduates and 6.0 for graduates.
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If your TOEFL score is below Cal State LA's level
The pages do not describe an English conditional admission route. The Electrical Engineering page notes that graduate applicants meeting university requirements are admitted in one of four categories, including Graduate Conditionally Classified, but that status relates to programme prerequisites rather than English.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Cal State LA programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What TOEFL score does Cal State LA need for undergraduates?+
3.5 for tests on or after 21 January 2026, or 61 for earlier tests.
What TOEFL score does Cal State LA need for graduate study?+
4.0, or 80 for tests before 21 January 2026.
What does the Cal State LA TESOL programme need?+
5.0 on the new scale, or 100 on the old scale.
What is Cal State LA's TOEFL code?+
4399.
Keep reading
Related
- Cal State LA IELTS requirement
- Cal State Fullerton TOEFL requirement
- Cal State East Bay TOEFL requirement
- The new TOEFL score scale (2026)
- All 4564 guides
Guide updated on 1 November 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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