University English requirements

What TOEFL score do you need for Curtin University?

Curtin University's standard English requirement for undergraduate, postgraduate and research courses accepts TOEFL iBT 81 for tests taken from June 2026, with at least 16 in reading and listening and 19 in speaking and writing. Tests taken before June 2026 need 79, and the new 6-point TOEFL needs 4.5 overall. Courses with higher English criteria need more.
  • Guide updated · 1 November 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 1 November 2026

Curtin TOEFL minimums by level

From Curtin's accepted English qualifications page. Section minimums are reading / listening / speaking / writing.

Level or programmeTOEFL iBT minimumNotes
UG, PG and research (standard), test from June 202681 (16 / 16 / 19 / 19)0 to 120 scale
UG, PG and research (standard), test before June 202679 (13 / 13 / 18 / 21)0 to 120 scale
UG, PG and research (standard), TOEFL 2026 6-point scale4.5 (4 / 4 / 4 / 4.5)Reading 4, listening 4, speaking 4, writing 4.5
Study abroad and exchange, test from June 202667 (16 / 16 / 19 / 19)Separate table on the same page
Study abroad and exchange, test before June 202668 (13 / 13 / 18 / 21)
Study abroad and exchange, 6-point scale4 (4 / 4 / 4 / 4.5)
Courses with higher English criteriaCourse specificSee the higher criteria list and equivalents chart

How Curtin handles TOEFL scores

The test must have been taken within two years of application, though Curtin says it may be used for entry until the next semester intake. Results from more than one English test are not combined to meet the standard.

The standard scores do not cover courses with specific or higher English requirements. Curtin's higher English criteria page lists those courses, among them the MBBS, Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) and the Advanced Nursing streams, and points to an English competency equivalents chart for tests other than IELTS. TOEFL iBT is listed there as an accepted test.

For comparison, the same page sets the standard IELTS Academic level at 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each band.

Your offer and your visa are separate. Home Affairs says that for a TOEFL iBT result to be valid for Australian visa purposes you must select 'Taking TOEFL for Australia' when you register, and it lists TOEFL iBT Home Edition among the online tests it does not accept (Home Affairs English page).

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If your TOEFL score is below Curtin's level

Curtin accepts its own English Language Bridging course with a grade of B or higher, or a full-time bridging program at another recognised Australian university with a result comparable to IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0). Bridging results must also be within two years of application. Approved programs at providers such as Navitas English count only towards the minimum English criteria.

Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Curtin programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.

Frequently asked questions

What TOEFL score does Curtin need?+

81 overall with 16 reading, 16 listening, 19 speaking and 19 writing for tests from June 2026; 79 for tests before June 2026.

Does Curtin accept the new 1 to 6 TOEFL scale?+

Yes. Curtin lists TOEFL 2026 (6-point scale) at 4.5 overall for its standard requirement.

Can I combine two English tests for Curtin?+

No. Curtin says results from multiple English tests will not be combined.

How long is TOEFL valid for Curtin?+

Two years from the test to your application, usable until the next semester intake.

Keep reading

Related

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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