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.
| Qualification | TOEFL iBT before 21 Jan 2026 | TOEFL iBT from 21 Jan 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 80, at least 19 in each skill | Overall 4.0 (L3.0, R3.5, W3.0, S3.0) |
| Postgraduate | 90, minimum 19 in each skill | Overall 4.5 (L3.5, R3.5, W4.0, S3.5) |
| Teaching qualifications | 98 (L24, R24, W27, S23) | Overall 5 (L5, R5, W5.5, S4.5) |
| UCIC Certificate in Foundation Studies or Diploma in University Studies | 46, writing not below 14 | Overall 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
- University of Canterbury IELTS requirement
- Massey University TOEFL requirement
- TOEFL for a New Zealand visa
- TOEFL score report explained
- All 4564 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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