Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 1 November 2026
CU Denver TOEFL minimums by level
From the undergraduate proof of English proficiency catalog page and the graduate international admissions page.
| Level or programme | TOEFL iBT minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 79 | Reading 8, Listening 7, Speaking 18, Writing 16 |
| Graduate (most programmes) | 79 (0 to 120) or 4 (1 to 6) | 1 to 6 sections: Reading 3, Listening 2.5, Speaking 3.5, Writing 3.5 |
| Graduate: College of Nursing | Not the university minimum | Check the programme |
| LynxDirect pathway (undergraduate) | 70 | Via the CU Denver ESL Academy |
How CU Denver handles TOEFL scores
Both catalog pages say CU Denver accepts TOEFL MyBest scores and gives the TOEFL code as 4875. The graduate page says the 1 to 6 figures apply only to tests taken on or after 21 January 2026, and that some graduate programmes require higher scores.
For comparison, the graduate page sets IELTS Academic at 6.5 with 5.5 in each band.
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If your TOEFL score is below CU Denver's level
Undergraduate applicants who do not meet the requirement are considered for the LynxDirect pathway programme in the CU Denver ESL Academy, which needs TOEFL iBT 70 (or IELTS 6.0) or completion of ESL Academy Level 4.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your CU Denver programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What TOEFL score does CU Denver require?+
79 overall with Reading 8, Listening 7, Speaking 18 and Writing 16.
What is the CU Denver minimum on the new 1 to 6 scale?+
The graduate page lists 4 overall, with Reading 3, Listening 2.5, Speaking 3.5 and Writing 3.5.
Does CU Denver accept MyBest scores?+
Yes.
What TOEFL score gets you into LynxDirect?+
70.
Keep reading
Related
- CU Denver IELTS requirement
- Portland State TOEFL requirement
- Wichita State TOEFL requirement
- TOEFL score report explained
- 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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