University English requirements

What TOEFL score do you need for the University of Canterbury?

The University of Canterbury asks for TOEFL iBT 80 with at least 19 in each skill for undergraduate entry, or 4.0 overall with section minimums for tests from 21 January 2026. Postgraduate entry needs 90 with 19 in each skill, or 4.5 overall. Teaching qualifications ask much more. UC accepts the Home Edition but not MyBest scores.
  • Guide updated · 1 November 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

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

UC TOEFL iBT minimums by qualification

From UC's English language requirements page.

QualificationTOEFL iBT before 21 Jan 2026TOEFL iBT from 21 Jan 2026
Undergraduate80, at least 19 in each skillOverall 4.0 (L3.0, R3.5, W3.0, S3.0)
Postgraduate90, minimum 19 in each skillOverall 4.5 (L3.5, R3.5, W4.0, S3.5)
Teaching qualifications98 (L24, R24, W27, S23)Overall 5 (L5, R5, W5.5, S4.5)
UCIC Certificate in Foundation Studies or Diploma in University Studies46, writing not below 14Overall 3.5 (L2.5, R3.0, W2.0, S2.5)

Test rules at UC

UC's English language proficiency page says it accepts TOEFL iBT including the Home Edition and Paper Edition, and that you must achieve the standard in one sitting within two years of the expected study start date. The requirements page adds that UC accepts scores from a single test date only, not MyBest scores.

On the same page, IELTS Academic is 6.0 with at least 5.5 in each skill for undergraduate entry and 6.5 with at least 6.0 for postgraduate entry.

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If your TOEFL score falls short

UC recommends English programmes at CCEL College of English; its EAP Level 2 is approved for undergraduate and postgraduate entry. Completing the UCIC Pre-masters One Semester also satisfies the English requirement for most master's programmes, the page says.

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

Frequently asked questions

What TOEFL score does the University of Canterbury need?+

80 with 19 in each skill for undergraduate and 90 with 19 in each skill for postgraduate, or 4.0 and 4.5 for tests from 21 January 2026.

Does UC accept TOEFL MyBest scores?+

No. UC only accepts TOEFL iBT scores from a single test date, not MyBest scores.

Does UC accept the TOEFL Home Edition?+

Yes, TOEFL iBT including the Home Edition and Paper Edition.

What TOEFL do UC teaching qualifications need?+

98 with L24, R24, W27 and S23, or 5 overall on the new scale with section minimums.

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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