Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 2 November 2026
Malta TOEFL iBT minimums
From the University of Malta's English language requirements page. Both the pre-January 2026 and the new scoring systems are accepted.
| Level or programme | TOEFL iBT minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation Studies Course or Junior College | 61, writing 17 (or 3.5, writing 4) | Pre-2026 or new scale |
| Undergraduate course | 80, writing 20 (or 4, writing 4.5) | Pre-2026 or new scale |
| Postgraduate course or doctoral degree | 95, writing 24 (or 5, writing 5) | Pre-2026 or new scale |
Test rules at Malta
TOEFL iBT grades are valid only if issued within two years of the start of your course at UM. The page sets submission deadlines: for the October intake, 1 July for non-EU applicants who need a visa and 30 September for others; for the February intake, 30 October and 31 January. Research master's and PhD applicants submit before the course starts.
On the same page, Academic IELTS needs 6.0 for undergraduate courses and 6.5 for postgraduate and doctoral courses, with component minimums.
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If your TOEFL score falls short
Malta says that if the result is not submitted by the deadline, you will not be admitted even if you meet every other requirement. Postgraduate courses in the Department of English and some nursing certificates have their own separate pages, and exemptions are covered on a separate exemptions page.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Malta 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 Malta require?+
80 with 20 in writing for undergraduate courses and 95 with 24 in writing for postgraduate and doctoral courses, or 4 and 5 on the new scale.
Does Malta accept the new 1 to 6 TOEFL scale?+
Yes. Both the previous and the updated grading systems are accepted.
How long is a TOEFL score valid for Malta?+
It must be issued within two years of the start of your course.
What TOEFL score do I need for Malta's Foundation Studies?+
61 with 17 in writing, or 3.5 with 4 in writing.
Keep reading
Related
- University of Malta IELTS requirement
- The new TOEFL 1 to 6 score scale (2026)
- TOEFL score report explained
- What is a good TOEFL score?
- All 5495 guides
Guide updated on 2 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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