Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
NIU TOEFL minimums by level
From International Admissions' freshman requirements and the Graduate School's application materials page.
| Level or programme | TOEFL iBT minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 71 | Internet-based TOEFL |
| Undergraduate, test after 21 Jan 2026 | 3.5 | 1 to 6 scale |
| Graduate | 80 | Programme entrance scores may also apply |
How NIU handles TOEFL scores
NIU's institution code is 1559 and no department code is needed. Graduate applicants upload a score report with the application, and admitted students then have the testing centre send the official score.
TOEFL iBT score reports from January 2026 also carry a 1 to 6 band score; our guide to the new TOEFL score scale explains how the two scales appear on a report.
For comparison, the freshman page asks for IELTS 6.0, and the graduate page asks for IELTS 6.5.
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If your TOEFL score is below NIU's level
Graduate applicants can meet the requirement by completing ELS English for Academic Purposes Level 112 instead of a test. They are also exempt if they completed a bachelor's or higher degree at an institution in one of NIU's listed countries.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your NIU programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What TOEFL score does NIU need for undergraduates?+
71 on the internet-based TOEFL, or 3.5 for tests taken after 21 January 2026.
What TOEFL score does NIU need for graduate admission?+
At least 80.
What is NIU's TOEFL code?+
1559, with no department code needed.
Can I skip the TOEFL for NIU graduate school?+
Completing ELS English for Academic Purposes Level 112 is accepted instead.
Keep reading
Related
- Northern Illinois University IELTS requirement
- Illinois State TOEFL requirement
- The new TOEFL 1 to 6 score scale
- IELTS vs TOEFL for US universities
- All 3989 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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