Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
SJSU TOEFL minimums by level
From SJSU's undergraduate English proficiency page and graduate test requirements page.
| Level or programme | TOEFL iBT minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate, except Engineering | 3.5, or 61 on the 0 to 120 scale | 0 to 120 for results before 21 Jan 2026 |
| Undergraduate, all Engineering majors | 4, or 80 on the 0 to 120 scale | 0 to 120 for results before 21 Jan 2026 |
| Graduate and post-baccalaureate | 4.0 and 80 | iBT and iBT Home |
| Graduate (some programmes) | Higher | Programme list on the graduate page |
SJSU's TOEFL rules
Undergraduates can take the TOEFL or TOEFL iBT Home Edition; scores over two years old are not valid, and ETS sends them to code 4687 after you apply through Cal State Apply. Graduate admissions accepts the iBT and iBT Home, accepts MyBest scores, and does not currently accept TOEFL Essentials; graduate scores must be less than two years old.
SJSU notes that its minimums may change under guidance from the California State University Chancellor's Office.
For comparison, undergraduates need IELTS 6.0 (6.5 for engineering), and the graduate page sets Academic IELTS at 6.5.
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If your TOEFL score is below SJSU's level
Neither page offers conditional admission. Undergraduate applicants who have completed 60 semester or 90 quarter transferable units at a US college are exempt from the test.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your SJSU programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What TOEFL score does San Jose State require for undergraduates?+
3.5 for most majors and 4 for engineering, or 61 and 80 on the 0 to 120 scale for older results.
What TOEFL score does SJSU graduate admission require?+
4.0 and 80 on the TOEFL iBT or iBT Home; some programmes ask for more.
Does SJSU accept TOEFL MyBest scores?+
SJSU Graduate Admissions accepts MyBest scores.
What is SJSU's TOEFL code?+
4687.
Keep reading
Related
- San Jose State University IELTS requirement
- UC Berkeley TOEFL requirement
- The new TOEFL 1 to 6 score scale
- IELTS for the USA: scores by university
- 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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