Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
ECU TOEFL minimums by level
From the international undergraduate page and the Graduate School international students page.
| Level or programme | TOEFL iBT minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 4 (2026 onward); 71 (before 2026) | |
| Graduate | 4.5 (received on or after 21 Jan 2026); 78 (received before) | 78 needs at least 18 in each section |
How ECU handles TOEFL scores
The Graduate School requires scores to be forwarded by the testing service and accepts the paper or computer-based TOEFL by request only. The pages do not state a MyBest or Home Edition policy or a TOEFL institution code.
For comparison, the Graduate School page sets IELTS at 6.5 and the undergraduate page at 6.0.
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If your TOEFL score is below ECU's level
Neither page describes a conditional route. Graduate applicants are exempt if they have completed at least 24 US undergraduate credit hours with a 3.0 GPA, or 9 US graduate credit hours with a 3.0 GPA. Undergraduates can instead meet the requirement with SAT, ACT, a US or exempt-country high school diploma, or a B or better in a US college writing course.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your ECU programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What TOEFL score does East Carolina University require for undergraduates?+
4 for 2026 onward, or 71 before 2026.
What TOEFL score does the ECU Graduate School require?+
4.5 overall for scores received on or after 21 January 2026, or 78 with 18 in each section before that.
Does ECU accept the paper-based TOEFL?+
The Graduate School accepts the paper or computer-based TOEFL by request only.
Does ECU set TOEFL section minimums?+
Only for graduate scores received before 21 January 2026: 18 in each section.
Keep reading
Related
- ECU IELTS requirement
- Coastal Carolina TOEFL requirement
- The new TOEFL score scale (2026)
- IELTS vs TOEFL for the USA
- All 3989 guides
Guide updated on 31 October 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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