Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 29 October 2026
KFUPM graduate English scores
From KFUPM's international student application page. Only overall scores are given.
| Programme | IELTS | TOEFL | Duolingo |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSc (thesis-based or project-based) | 6.0 | iBT 70, PBT 520, CBT 190 | 105 |
| PhD, including direct-entry PhD | 6.5 | iBT 80, PBT 550, CBT 213 | 120 |
Waivers and academic entry
The English test is waived for KFUPM graduates and for graduates from English-speaking countries, which KFUPM names as the USA, Canada, UK, Australia and New Zealand. An English-medium degree from elsewhere is not listed as a waiver, so plan on a test.
MSc applicants need a four-year bachelor's degree in business, engineering or science from a recognised institution. KFUPM accepts Duolingo, which few Gulf universities on this list do. PTE is not mentioned.
Free test: are you at KFUPM's score yet?
Take a free AI-scored IELTS mock test and get a band for each skill, so you know how far you are from the requirement before you book the real test. Free account, no card.
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How to check
This page covers international graduate admission. KFUPM's apply page lists separate regular, SAT and Science Olympiad routes for undergraduate admission.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your KFUPM programme page and in your offer, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) publishes an IELTS score, it is the minimum: the floor an application has to meet to be considered, not a score that guarantees an offer.
Competitive programmes, and courses with far more applicants than places, may expect more than the minimum, and some departments set their own overall or per-skill scores, often for writing or speaking. The course page has the final word, so check it before you book a test.
If you are close to the line, aim for a margin above it: one weak skill can miss the requirement even when the overall band clears it. Not sure where you stand? Take a free IELTS mock test and get a band for each skill.
Frequently asked questions
What IELTS does KFUPM need for a master's?+
IELTS 6.0, TOEFL iBT 70 or Duolingo 105 for MSc programmes.
What IELTS does a KFUPM PhD need?+
IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 80 or Duolingo 120, including for direct-entry PhD.
Does KFUPM accept Duolingo?+
Yes: 105 for MSc and 120 for PhD.
Who is exempt from English tests at KFUPM?+
KFUPM graduates and graduates from the USA, Canada, UK, Australia and New Zealand.
Keep reading
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- Alfaisal University IELTS requirement
- Duolingo vs IELTS for universities
- All 2279 guides
Guide updated on 29 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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