University English requirements

What TOEFL score do you need for Stephen F. Austin State University?

Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA) asks international applicants for a TOEFL score of 4.5 on tests taken after 21 January 2026, or 79 on earlier tests, and the test must be within the last two years. The MA in professional counseling and the MA in student affairs and higher education ask for 90 iBT.
  • Guide updated · 1 November 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 1 November 2026

SFA TOEFL minimums by level and programme

From SFA's English proficiency page, which covers undergraduate and graduate admission, and the graduate admissions page.

Level or programmeTOEFL iBT minimumNotes
Undergraduate and graduate, test after 21 Jan 20264.5Test within the last two years
Undergraduate and graduate, test before 21 Jan 202679Test within the last two years
MA professional counseling; MA student affairs and higher education90 iBTCountry exemption does not apply

How SFA handles TOEFL scores

All English tests must have been taken within the last two years. The English proficiency page says the Educator Preparation Program, Counseling and Student Affairs and Higher Education programmes require a higher level, and that waivers are not available for them.

For comparison, the same page sets IELTS at 6.5 overall, and at 6.5 for the counseling and student affairs MAs.

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If your TOEFL score is below SFA's level

Other routes include a U.S. high school diploma or degree within the previous two years, transfer with a 2.50 GPA, 24 credit hours and B grades in ENGL 1301 and 1302, completion of Level 112 at an ELS Center, or set levels at the Texas Intensive English Program. Waivers of equivalency may be available for credentials from certain countries.

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

Frequently asked questions

What TOEFL score does Stephen F. Austin require?+

4.5 for tests after 21 January 2026, or 79 for earlier tests.

How old can my TOEFL score be for SFA?+

It must have been taken within the last two years.

What TOEFL score do SFA counseling programmes need?+

90 iBT for the MA in professional counseling and the MA in student affairs and higher education.

What IELTS score does SFA accept?+

6.5 overall.

Keep reading

Related

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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