Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 29 October 2026
Koç University's accepted English exams
From Koç University's international student admissions page and English Language Center page. IELTS does not appear on either list.
| Exam | Minimum | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT (tests on or after 21 Jan 2026) | 4.5 | 2 years |
| TOEFL iBT (tests before 21 Jan 2026) | 80, Writing 20 | 2 years |
| PTE Academic | 67 | 2 years |
| Cambridge CAE / CPE | Grade C | 3 years |
| YDS / e-YDS | 80 | 5 years |
| e-TEP | 74 | 2 years |
| Oxford Test of English Advanced | 141-145 | 2 years |
| Koç University English Proficiency Exam (KUEPE) | 60 | - |
Test rules
TOEFL Home Edition and MyBest scores are not accepted, and all sections of an exam must be taken on the same day. Koç also notes that, under ÖSYM rules, an international exam taken in Türkiye must meet conditions on where it is held, such as state university buildings.
Students who submit a valid result at these levels are exempt from the English Language Center and start their undergraduate courses directly. Students who do not can take the KUEPE, where 60 or above moves them into their programme.
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What this means for IELTS holders
Because IELTS is not on Koç's list, an IELTS score should not be relied on to skip the English Language Center. If you already hold PTE or TOEFL, check it against the table; otherwise plan on the KUEPE.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Koç University programme page and in your offer, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where Koç University 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
Does Koç University accept IELTS?+
IELTS is not on Koç's list of external English exams for skipping the English Language Center.
What TOEFL does Koç University need?+
TOEFL iBT 4.5 for tests from 21 January 2026, or 80 with Writing 20 for earlier tests. Home Edition and MyBest are not accepted.
Does Koç University accept PTE?+
Yes, PTE Academic 67, valid for two years.
What is the KUEPE pass mark?+
60 out of 100 on the Koç University English Proficiency Exam moves you into your academic programme.
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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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