University English requirements

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

The University of Georgia's Graduate School requires a TOEFL iBT score of 80 with at least 20 in speaking and writing for tests before 21 January 2026, and 4.5 with at least 4 in speaking and writing for tests from 22 January 2026. For undergraduates, admitted international students averaged 102 between 2019 and 2023, and most meet proficiency through the SAT or ACT.
  • Guide updated · 31 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026

UGA TOEFL levels

From UGA's graduate English language proficiency page and the undergraduate international students page. The graduate page gives 21 and 22 January 2026 as the cut-off dates, as shown.

Level or programmeTOEFL iBT minimumNotes
Graduate (before 21 January 2026)80At least 20 in speaking and writing
Graduate (on or after 22 January 2026)4.5At least 4 in speaking and writing
First-year undergraduateNo minimum; admitted average 102 (5.0 on the new scale)Average for 2019 to 2023; most use SAT or ACT
International transfer80 internet-basedOr 213 computer-based, or 550 paper-based

How UGA handles TOEFL scores

The Graduate School accepts the TOEFL iBT including the Computer Based, Home Edition, MyBest and Paper Edition versions, reported electronically by the testing agency. Students seeking a teaching assistantship should consult UGA's TA policy, which has its own English requirements.

UGA's TOEFL and SAT code is 5813. For transfer applicants, the page says scores must not be more than five years old.

For comparison, the graduate page asks for IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0, and the undergraduate page gives an admitted average of IELTS 7.5.

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If your TOEFL score is below UGA's level

Graduate applicants can show proficiency by completing Level 6 of the UGA Intensive English Program, with confirmation from its director. Applicants with degrees from accredited US institutions or from countries where English is the primary language usually do not need a test. Duolingo is not accepted at graduate level from the Fall 2024 cycle.

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

Frequently asked questions

What TOEFL score does UGA graduate school need?+

80 with 20 in speaking and writing before 21 January 2026, or 4.5 with 4 in speaking and writing from 22 January 2026.

Does UGA accept TOEFL MyBest scores?+

Yes. The Graduate School lists MyBest among accepted TOEFL iBT versions.

What TOEFL score do UGA undergraduates get?+

Admitted international students averaged 102 (5.0 on the new scale) between 2019 and 2023. No minimum is set for first-years.

What is UGA's TOEFL code?+

5813.

Keep reading

Related

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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