Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
University of South Dakota TOEFL minimums by level
From USD's international undergraduate admission page and international graduate admission page.
| Level or programme | TOEFL iBT minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 71 (iBT) or 4 (new scoring) | TOEFL Essentials 8 |
| Graduate | 79 (iBT) or 4 (new scoring) | TOEFL Essentials 8.5 |
How the University of South Dakota handles TOEFL scores
Both pages list the TOEFL iBT, the new 2026 scoring and TOEFL Essentials as separate options, so you can apply with whichever you hold. Applicants with a conferred degree from a listed English-speaking country are exempt from the English test.
Graduate teaching and research assistantships are decided by each department, and the graduate page describes them as competitive and limited.
For comparison, both the undergraduate page and the graduate page ask for IELTS Academic 6.0.
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If your TOEFL score is below the University of South Dakota's level
Neither page describes conditional admission or an English pathway programme. Undergraduates have other ways to show English, including ACT 21, SAT 1070, AP English 3, ELS level 112 or a college English composition course at a US institution with a C or higher.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your University of South Dakota 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 South Dakota need for undergraduates?+
71 on the TOEFL iBT, or 4 on the new scoring.
What TOEFL score does USD need for graduate study?+
79 on the TOEFL iBT, or 4 on the new scoring.
Does the University of South Dakota accept TOEFL Essentials?+
Yes: 8 for undergraduates and 8.5 for graduate applicants.
What IELTS score does USD accept instead?+
IELTS Academic 6.0 at both levels.
Keep reading
Related
- University of South Dakota IELTS requirement
- Montana State TOEFL requirement
- The new TOEFL 1 to 6 score scale
- IELTS vs TOEFL for US universities
- All 3989 guides
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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