Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 2 November 2026
Korea University TOEFL iBT levels
From the graduate school eligibility page and the 2027 international undergraduate application guide.
| Level or programme | TOEFL iBT | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate school (English route) | 71, or 3.5 from 21 Jan 2026 | Home Edition included; MyBest not accepted |
| Undergraduate admission | TOEFL iBT accepted as English proof | No minimum score stated in the guide |
| Global Open Major: major assignment after Year 1 | 100, or 5 on the new scale | Or IELTS 7.0 or TOPIK 5 |
Test rules at Korea University
The undergraduate guide accepts the TOEFL iBT including the Home Edition and Enhancement, but not TOEFL MyBest scores or TOEFL Essentials. Scores must be within the validity period. English is mandatory for the International Studies major.
At graduate level, English is mandatory for the Management, Finance, Marketing, Accounting, Global Business, IS, LSOM and Strategy majors in Business Administration.
On the graduate page, Academic IELTS needs 5.5 or higher and the IELTS Indicator is not accepted.
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If your TOEFL score falls short
Korea University accepts Korean instead of English for most programmes: the graduate page lists TOPIK level 3 or higher, and some departments ask TOPIK 5 or 6. Graduate applicants who completed a degree in an English-speaking country, or a degree taught 100% in English, are among those exempt.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Korea University programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What TOEFL score does Korea University need for graduate school?+
TOEFL iBT 71 or higher, or 3.5 for tests taken on or after 21 January 2026.
Does Korea University accept the TOEFL Home Edition?+
Yes, at both graduate and undergraduate level. MyBest scores are not accepted.
Can I apply to Korea University with Korean instead of TOEFL?+
Yes for most programmes. The graduate school accepts TOPIK level 3 or higher, with some departments asking more.
What TOEFL score does the Global Open Major need?+
TOEFL iBT 100, or 5 on the new scale, to be assigned your chosen major after the first year.
Keep reading
Related
- Korea University IELTS requirement
- KAIST TOEFL requirement
- TOEFL fee in South Korea
- The new TOEFL 1 to 6 score scale (2026)
- All 5495 guides
Guide updated on 2 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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