Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 1 November 2026
Portsmouth TOEFL minimums by level
From Portsmouth's English language requirements page. Some courses, especially those with a lot of discussion and writing, need higher scores, as shown on each course page.
| Level or programme | TOEFL iBT minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation or pathway courses | 72 (reading 18, listening 17, speaking 20, writing 17) | A UKVI-approved test is also needed (see below) |
| Most bachelor's degrees | 79 (reading 18, listening 17, speaking 20, writing 17) | Some courses higher |
| Most master's degrees | 91 (reading 20, listening 19, speaking 21, writing 20) | Some courses higher |
| TOEFL Essentials (any level) | Band 8 overall with no component below Band 8 | An interview is also required |
Portsmouth TOEFL test rules
Portsmouth accepts valid and verifiable TOEFL MyBest scores. When you book, name Portsmouth as a score recipient by quoting code 3234 so ETS sends your score directly. The TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition needs the same scores as the standard test.
New TOEFL iBT score reports also carry a 1 to 6 score alongside the 0 to 120 total; see the new TOEFL score scale explained.
For comparison, the same page asks for IELTS 6.0 with no component below 5.5 for most bachelor's degrees and IELTS 6.5 to 7.0 with no component below 6.0 for most master's degrees.
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If your TOEFL score is below Portsmouth's level
Portsmouth runs pre-sessional English programmes for students who need to improve their English before the course starts. Its page says that for a foundation or pre-sessional English course you must also take an approved UK Visas and Immigration test, because TOEFL is not recognised by UKVI for that purpose.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Portsmouth programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What TOEFL score does Portsmouth need for a bachelor's degree?+
Generally 79 with 18 in reading, 17 in listening, 20 in speaking and 17 in writing.
What is Portsmouth's TOEFL code?+
3234. Quote it when choosing score recipients so ETS sends your score directly.
Does Portsmouth accept TOEFL MyBest scores?+
Yes, if they are valid and verifiable.
Can I use TOEFL for a Portsmouth foundation or pre-sessional course?+
Portsmouth says you must also take a UKVI-approved test for those courses.
Keep reading
Related
- Portsmouth IELTS requirement
- Greenwich TOEFL requirement
- TOEFL score report explained
- TOEFL for UK study and visas
- 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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