Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
ODU TOEFL levels
From ODU's English proficiency page and the graduate catalogue's admission section.
| Level or programme | TOEFL iBT minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Admission, exam before 21 Jan 2026 | 79 | MyBest not accepted; paper-based 550 |
| Admission, exam on or after 21 Jan 2026 | 4.5 | MyBest not accepted |
| Monarch English Transition (MET) Program | 61 to 78 (before 21 Jan 2026); 4 (after) | Academic and semi-intensive English courses |
| Intensive English Program (IEP) | Below 61 (before 21 Jan 2026); 3.5 (after) | English Language Center |
How ODU handles TOEFL scores
ODU does not accept TOEFL MyBest scores. The graduate catalogue repeats the 79 iBT level and adds that non-native speakers who expect to hold a teaching assistantship must show oral English proficiency through the Test of Spoken English or the ETS SPEAK test.
For comparison, the proficiency page and the graduate catalogue both set IELTS at 6.5 overall.
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If your TOEFL score is below ODU's level
Conditional admission is offered only to highly qualified applicants who meet every requirement except English. The graduate catalogue says conditional admission is available to most graduate programmes for students in the Intensive English Program, and graduate students in the MET range take one graduate course alongside English Language Center work. IEP students can move into MET without a new TOEFL after finishing the top IEP level with a B or higher.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your ODU programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What TOEFL score does Old Dominion University need?+
79 for exams before 21 January 2026, or 4.5 for exams on or after that date.
Does ODU accept TOEFL MyBest scores?+
No.
What happens with a TOEFL of 70 at ODU?+
A score from 61 to 78 places you in the Monarch English Transition Program.
Do ODU teaching assistants need a speaking test?+
Yes. The graduate catalogue asks for evidence of oral English through the TSE or ETS SPEAK test.
Keep reading
Related
- Old Dominion University IELTS requirement
- George Washington University TOEFL requirement
- TOEFL score report explained
- The new TOEFL 1 to 6 score scale
- 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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