Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
What ETS says
ETS's score page states that there are no passing or failing scores set by the TOEFL Program or ETS. Each institution sets its own score requirements, and most post them on their website (ETS score FAQ).
The same FAQ gives two examples of how requirements may move to the new scale. These are ETS's suggestions; ETS says each university makes its own decision.
| Old requirement (0–120) | What ETS says it may become (1–6) |
|---|---|
| Total of 100 | Total of 5 |
| Total of 80 | Total of 4 |
How the 1–6 total is worked out
Since 21 January 2026 each of the four sections is scored from 1 to 6 in half-point steps. The total is the average of the four section scores, rounded to the nearest half band: an average of 5.125 gives a total of 5, and 5.25 gives 5.5 (ETS score FAQ).
For a two-year transition period your report also shows a comparable total on the old 0–120 scale, so you can meet a requirement written either way (ETS). ETS's comparison for tests taken before the change puts these old totals at each new band:
| Total (1–6) | Old total (0–120) |
|---|---|
| 6 | 114+ |
| 5.5 | 107+ |
| 5 | 95+ |
| 4.5 | 86+ |
| 4 | 72+ |
| 3.5 | 58+ |
| 3 | 44+ |
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Finding the score you need
Check each university's own admissions page, and check whether a programme sets section minimums as well as a total. Some institutions are still updating their requirements and may list them on the 0–120 scale (ETS). Our TOEFL scores for top US universities guide collects published minimums, and the TOEFL 1–6 score scale guide explains the change in detail.
If you have taken the test more than once, ask whether the institution accepts MyBest scores; ETS leaves that to each institution (ETS score FAQ). Rules and fees change. Check the test owner's own page before you book or pay. This guide is general information, not official advice from ETS or Duolingo.
Frequently asked questions
What is the TOEFL passing score?+
There is none. ETS sets no passing or failing score; each institution sets its own requirement.
Is 100 a good TOEFL score on the new scale?+
ETS's comparison table places an old total of 95 or more at a 5 and 107 or more at a 5.5, and says schools that asked for 100 may now ask for 5.
What is the highest TOEFL score?+
6, on the 1 to 6 scale used since 21 January 2026. The old scale's maximum was 120.
Does my TOEFL report still show a 0–120 score?+
Yes, for a two-year transition period your report shows a comparable 0–120 total alongside the 1–6 scores.
How is the TOEFL total calculated now?+
It is the average of the four section scores, rounded to the nearest half band.
Keep reading
Related
- TOEFL 1–6 score scale
- TOEFL scores for top US universities
- TOEFL MyBest scores
- TOEFL to IELTS converter
- All 3112 guides
Guide updated on 30 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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