University English requirements

What TOEFL score do you need for PolyU?

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University asks non-local undergraduate applicants and taught postgraduate applicants for TOEFL iBT 80 out of 120, or 4.5 out of 6 for tests taken on or after 21 January 2026, achieved in one sitting. The test must be within two years, and TOEFL iBT Home Edition results are not considered for taught programmes.
  • Guide updated · 2 November 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 2 November 2026

PolyU TOEFL iBT minimums by level

From PolyU's undergraduate English requirements page for international qualifications and its taught postgraduate admission requirements. Individual programmes can set their own level.

Level or programmeTOEFL iBT minimumNotes
Undergraduate, tests before 21 Jan 202680 out of 120, one sittingUnless the programme says otherwise
Undergraduate, tests on or after 21 Jan 20264.5 out of 6.0, one sittingUnless the programme says otherwise
Taught postgraduate80 out of 120, or 4.5 out of 6 from 21 Jan 2026For non-native speakers without an English-medium degree

Test rules at PolyU

For undergraduates, the test date must be within two years before the start of study at PolyU; the taught postgraduate page also asks for a test within two years, taken in a single sitting. Both pages say TOEFL iBT Home Edition results will not be considered for taught programmes.

On the same pages, IELTS Academic needs an overall band of 6.0, and IELTS Online, Indicator and One Skill Retake results are not accepted.

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If your TOEFL score falls short

The taught postgraduate page applies the test requirement only to non-native speakers whose bachelor's degree was awarded by an institution where English is not the medium of instruction. Neither page describes a conditional offer for a lower TOEFL score.

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

Frequently asked questions

What TOEFL score does PolyU need?+

TOEFL iBT 80 out of 120, or 4.5 out of 6 for tests from 21 January 2026, in one sitting.

Does PolyU accept the TOEFL Home Edition?+

No. PolyU says Home Edition results are not considered for its taught programmes.

Is the TOEFL requirement the same for PolyU master's degrees?+

Yes, the taught postgraduate minimum is also 80 or 4.5, though programmes can ask more.

How long is a TOEFL score valid for PolyU?+

Two years; for undergraduates, the test must be within two years before your PolyU start date.

Keep reading

Related

Guide updated on 2 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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