Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
SMU TOEFL minimums by level
From SMU's international application checklist, the guide to graduate admissions and the Lyle School of Engineering apply page.
| Level or programme | TOEFL iBT minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (taken after January 2026) | 4.5–6.0 | 4–5 or higher in each section |
| Undergraduate (taken before January 2026) | 90–120 | Reading and Listening 20+ each; Writing and Speaking 24+ each |
| Lyle School of Engineering graduate (pre-2026) | 80 | Home-based tests eligible upon approval |
| Lyle School of Engineering graduate (2026 onward) | 4 | Conditional admission possible |
| Dedman College graduate | No minimum given | TOEFL Speaking below 23 means a video essay |
How SMU handles TOEFL scores
All international graduate applicants for whom English is a second language must take the TOEFL or IELTS. For Dedman, Lyle, Meadows and Simmons, use ETS school code 6660; no programme code is needed. Dedman College applicants who score below 23 on TOEFL Speaking must complete a video essay.
For comparison, the undergraduate checklist lists IELTS 6.5 to 9.0 with 6.5 in each section, and the Lyle page sets IELTS at 6.5.
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If your TOEFL score is below SMU's level
Lyle may offer conditional admission to international students who meet the academic standards but not the English requirement, provided they submit TOEFL, IELTS, PTE or Duolingo results; they must complete the Intensive English Program before taking Lyle graduate courses. Lyle's partner, the Global Education Institute, also runs a Pre-Master Program combining academic English with Lyle courses.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your SMU programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What TOEFL score does SMU need for undergraduates?+
The checklist lists 4.5 to 6.0 on tests after January 2026, or 90 to 120 before, with section minimums.
What TOEFL score does SMU Lyle School of Engineering need?+
80 on the pre-2026 scale or 4 from 2026.
What is SMU's TOEFL code for graduate programmes?+
6660, for Dedman, Lyle, Meadows and Simmons.
Does SMU offer conditional admission on the TOEFL?+
Lyle may, if you meet the academic standards and submit an English test score; you then complete the Intensive English Program first.
Keep reading
Related
- SMU IELTS requirement
- Texas State TOEFL requirement
- The new TOEFL score scale (2026)
- IELTS vs TOEFL for US universities
- 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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