Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 1 November 2026
McMaster TOEFL minimums by route
From McMaster's undergraduate English language proficiency page.
| Level or programme | TOEFL iBT minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Direct entry (tests from 21 Jan 2026) | 4.5; Listening 4.5, Reading, Writing and Speaking 4.0 | Valid for 2 years |
| Direct entry (tests before 21 Jan 2026) | 86 with 20 in each section | Valid for 2 years |
| STEP summer programme (new scale) | 4.5; Reading and Writing 4.0, Speaking and Listening 3.0 | Conditional offer |
| STEP summer programme (0 to 120) | 86; Reading and Writing 20, Speaking 16, Listening 11 | Conditional offer |
| MELD diploma | 3.5 overall, or 70 on older tests | Conditional offer |
How McMaster handles TOEFL scores
McMaster's ETS institution code is 0936, and results must be sent electronically from the testing centre. The page says McMaster accepts the TOEFL Home Edition but not TOEFL Essentials or MyBest scores.
For comparison, the same page sets IELTS Academic at 6.5 with 6.0 in each component for direct entry.
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If your TOEFL score is below McMaster's level
If you meet the academic requirements but are slightly below the direct-entry score, you may get an offer conditional on the STEP certificate, a seven-week academic English bridging programme in the summer before September. With a lower score, the offer can be conditional on the MELD diploma, an 8-month (two-term) intensive transition programme.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your McMaster programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What TOEFL score does McMaster need?+
4.5 with Listening 4.5 and 4.0 in the other sections for tests from 21 January 2026, or 86 with 20 in each section for earlier tests.
Does McMaster accept the TOEFL Home Edition?+
Yes. It does not accept TOEFL Essentials or MyBest scores.
What is McMaster's TOEFL code?+
0936.
What TOEFL score do I need for McMaster's MELD programme?+
3.5 overall, or 70 on tests taken before 21 January 2026.
Keep reading
Related
- McMaster IELTS requirement
- University of Waterloo TOEFL requirement
- Western TOEFL requirement
- TOEFL MyBest scores explained
- All 4564 guides
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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