Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
UIC TOEFL minimums by level
From UIC's international undergraduate requirements page and the Graduate Catalog.
| Level or programme | TOEFL iBT minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 80 or 4.5 total | Colleges may set higher minimums |
| Graduate (tests on or after 21 Jan 2026) | 4.5 total | Reading 4, Listening 4, Speaking 4.5, Writing 4.5 |
| Graduate (tests before 21 Jan 2026) | 80 total | Reading 19, Listening 17, Speaking 20, Writing 21 |
| Graduate, with supplemental coursework | No lower than 70 | Only programmes that choose to consider it |
How UIC handles TOEFL scores
Scores must be reported directly from ETS to institutional code 1851; all programmes can see them regardless of department code. The Graduate College requires scores no more than two years old, notes that many departments set higher TOEFL minimums, and mentions the TOEFL iBT Home Edition as an online option.
For comparison, the undergraduate page and the Graduate Catalog both set IELTS Academic at 6.5 with 6.0 in each section.
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If your TOEFL score is below UIC's level
Undergraduate applications below the published minimums are not automatically denied, and applicants can study at UIC's Tutorium in Intensive English, which also offers an assessment UIC accepts. At graduate level, some programmes consider scores down to TOEFL iBT 70 with supplemental coursework, and some may defer admission so students can take the Intensive English Program first.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your UIC programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What TOEFL score does UIC need for undergraduates?+
A total of 80 or 4.5.
What TOEFL score does the UIC Graduate College need?+
4.5 with section minimums of 4 to 4.5 on new tests, or 80 with section minimums of 17 to 21 on tests before 21 January 2026.
What is UIC's TOEFL code?+
1851.
Will UIC consider a TOEFL score below 80?+
Some graduate programmes consider scores no lower than iBT 70 with supplemental coursework, and undergraduate applications below the minimum are not automatically denied.
Keep reading
Related
- UIC IELTS requirement
- Saint Louis University TOEFL requirement
- The new TOEFL score scale (2026)
- TOEFL score report explained
- 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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