Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
NMSU TOEFL minimums by level
From the international undergraduate admissions page and the Graduate School English proficiency page.
| Level or programme | TOEFL iBT minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First-year and transfer undergraduate | 3.5 | Exemptions for listed countries |
| Graduate (tests before 21 Jan 2026) | 79 | Required for doctoral students |
| Graduate (tests on or after 21 Jan 2026) | 4.0 | Required for doctoral students |
| Master's with placement exam | 68 to 78 (before 21 Jan 2026) or 3.5 | English Language Placement Test before coursework |
How NMSU handles TOEFL scores
The Graduate School asks for an official TOEFL or IELTS score report showing written and oral English. Doctoral applicants must meet the full minimum. The pages we read do not give a TOEFL institution code or a validity period, so confirm these with admissions.
For comparison, the undergraduate page sets IELTS at 6.0, and the Graduate School sets it at 6.5, with 6.0 for the placement exam route.
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If your TOEFL score is below NMSU's level
Master's students admitted with TOEFL 68 to 78, or 3.5 on newer tests, sit the English Language Placement Test before starting academic coursework. If the result falls short, they may have to take additional academic English classes. Undergraduates who attended a US high school for at least two full years, or transfer with at least 24 semester credits from a US institution, may be considered for a waiver.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your NMSU programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What TOEFL score does NMSU require for undergraduates?+
3.5 on the TOEFL iBT.
What TOEFL score does the NMSU Graduate School require?+
79 on tests before 21 January 2026, or 4.0 on later tests.
Can I start a master's at NMSU with a lower TOEFL score?+
With 68 to 78, or 3.5, you can be admitted but must sit the English Language Placement Test first.
Do NMSU doctoral students need the full TOEFL minimum?+
Yes. Doctoral students must meet 79, or 4.0.
Keep reading
Related
- NMSU IELTS requirement
- UAH TOEFL requirement
- The new TOEFL score scale (2026)
- IELTS vs TOEFL for the USA
- All 3797 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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