University English requirements

What TOEFL score do you need for Oakland University?

Oakland University asks undergraduates for TOEFL iBT 79 on tests before 20 January 2026, or 4.5 on tests from 21 January 2026. Graduate applicants need TOEFL iBT 79, and may use MyBest scores. Graduate applicants with 69 to 78 can be admitted with limited standing and an ESL course sequence. Some programmes set higher levels.
  • Guide updated · 31 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026

Oakland TOEFL minimums by level

From the international undergraduate application page, the graduate catalog's international admission requirements and the ESL Institute's proficiency policy.

Level or programmeTOEFL iBT minimumNotes
Undergraduate (tests prior to 20 Jan 2026)79Full admission
Undergraduate (tests from 21 Jan 2026)4.5Full admission
Graduate admission79MyBest TOEFL may be used
Graduate: admission with limited standing69 to 78ESL course sequence required

How Oakland handles TOEFL scores

The graduate catalog and the ESL Institute policy both say graduate applicants may use MyBest TOEFL scores. First-year and transfer applicants can send unofficial copies of current score reports by email to international@oakland.edu. Some programmes ask for higher proficiency, so check your programme description.

For comparison, the undergraduate page and the graduate catalog both set IELTS at 6.5.

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If your TOEFL score is below Oakland's level

Graduate applicants scoring 69 to 78 on the TOEFL iBT (or IELTS 6) can be admitted with limited standing and must complete an ESL course sequence. Undergraduates can meet the requirement by completing three level 7 courses with at least a B- in Oakland's ESL Institute, or ELS Level 112.

Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Oakland programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.

Frequently asked questions

What TOEFL score does Oakland University require for undergraduates?+

79 on tests before 20 January 2026, or 4.5 on tests from 21 January 2026.

What TOEFL score does Oakland require for graduate study?+

79, with 69 to 78 leading to admission with limited standing and ESL courses.

Does Oakland accept TOEFL MyBest scores?+

Yes, for graduate applicants.

Can I send unofficial TOEFL scores to Oakland?+

First-year and transfer applicants can email unofficial copies of current score reports.

Keep reading

Related

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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