Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 1 November 2026
SOAS TOEFL minimums by entry route
From the SOAS English language requirements page.
| Level or programme | TOEFL iBT minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Direct entry | 95 / 5.0 | Old scale: 23 writing, 20 others. New scale: 4.5 writing and listening, 4.0 reading and speaking |
| With 4-week pre-sessional English | 92 / 4.5 | Old scale: 20 writing and speaking, 18 listening and reading. New scale: 4.0 in all |
| With 8-week pre-sessional English | 85 / 4.0 | Old scale: 20 speaking, 18 others. New scale: 4.0 in all |
SOAS TOEFL test rules
SOAS does not accept composite scores such as TOEFL MyBest Scores, and it does not accept TOEFL Essentials. The TOEFL iBT Home Edition is listed among tests SOAS considers alongside other evidence of your English, such as references, CV or personal statement. Research degrees follow separate Doctoral School requirements.
For comparison, the same page sets IELTS Academic at 6.5 with 6.0 in all subscores for direct entry.
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If your TOEFL score is below the SOAS level
A TOEFL score of 92 or 85 can lead to entry through a 4-week or 8-week SOAS pre-sessional English course before your degree. SOAS also accepts a range of alternative English qualifications, generally with five-year validity.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your SOAS programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What TOEFL score does SOAS need?+
95 overall with 23 in writing and 20 in the other sections, or 5.0 on the new scale, for direct entry.
Can I enter SOAS with a lower TOEFL score?+
Yes, through pre-sessional English: 92 (4.5) for the 4-week course or 85 (4.0) for the 8-week course.
Does SOAS accept TOEFL MyBest scores?+
No. SOAS does not accept composite scores such as MyBest.
Does SOAS accept TOEFL Essentials?+
No.
Keep reading
Related
- SOAS IELTS requirement
- Goldsmiths TOEFL requirement
- What is a good TOEFL score?
- TOEFL for UK study and visas
- All 4750 guides
Guide updated on 1 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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