Plan Your Study Abroad: TOEFL Scores for European Universities
The best universities in Europe are eager to welcome students just like you! If you’re a hard-working student aiming to pursue a Master’s degree, you’ll need to ensure you meet their English language requirements. One of the most recognised exams is the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). Universities use TOEFL scores to evaluate your proficiency in English, which is critical for succeeding in English-taught programmes.
If you’re wondering whether your TOEFL scores are good enough for admission, we’ve compiled a list of the score requirements for some of Europe’s top universities. Let’s explore what you need to achieve to secure your spot!
Why Take the TOEFL?
TOEFL scores are accepted widely across Europe alongside other exams like IELTS and PTE Academic. It measures your English skills in Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Depending on the test format, your scores will either be in the range of 0–120 (iBT) for the internet-based test or 310–677 (PDT) for the paper-delivered test.
TOEFL Score Requirements for Top European Universities
550 (PDT); 79–80 (iBT)
These universities offer diverse programmes with relatively accessible TOEFL requirements:
-
KU Leuven (Belgium)
- Programmes:
- Master's in Religious Studies & Theology
- Master's in Psychology
- Master's in Chemical Engineering
- Master's in Health Sciences
- Master's in Biology
-
Tampere University (Finland)
- Programmes:
- Master's in Materials Science & Engineering
- Master's in Human-Computer Interaction
- Master's in Electrical Engineering
-
University of Bologna (Italy)
- Programmes:
- Master's in International Relations
- Master's in Political Science
- Master's in History
- Master's in European Studies
570 (PDT); 88 (iBT)
A slightly higher score is required for these prestigious institutions:
-
Leiden University (Netherlands)
- Programmes:
- Master's in Archaeology
- Master's in Biology
- Master's in Ecology
- Master's in Animal Sciences
-
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (Germany)
- Programmes:
- Master's in Electrical Engineering
- Master's in Mechanical Engineering
- Master's in Physics
-
Central European University (Austria)
- Programmes:
- Master's in Finance
- Master's in Legal Studies
- Master's in Anthropology
- Master's in Economics
575 (PDT); 90 (iBT)
Ideal for students targeting innovative and competitive fields:
-
Erasmus University Rotterdam (Netherlands)
- Programmes:
- Master's in Economics
- Master's in Pedagogy
- Master's in Molecular Sciences
- Master's in Health Sciences
-
Chalmers University of Technology (Sweden)
- Programmes:
- Master's in Architecture
- Master's in Design
- Master's in Neuroscience
- Master's in Computer Sciences
-
Jönköping University (Sweden)
- Programmes:
- Master's in Economics
- Master's in Industrial Design
- Master's in Health Sciences
580 (PDT); 92 (iBT)
These universities cater to more research-focused Master’s programmes:
-
University of Helsinki (Finland)
- Programmes:
- Master's in Forestry
- Master's in Neuroscience
- Master's in Environmental Sciences
- Master's in Mathematics
-
Free University of Brussels (Belgium)
- Programmes:
- Master's in Bio & Biomedical Engineering
600 (PDT); 100 (iBT)
Top-tier universities with rigorous academic standards often require these scores:
-
University of Luxembourg (Luxembourg)
- Programmes:
- Master's in Entrepreneurship
- Master's in Innovation Management
-
Masaryk University (Czech Republic)
- Programmes:
- Master's in European Studies
- Master's in Public Policy
- Master's in Political Science
-
Radboud University (Netherlands)
- Programmes:
- Master's in Psychology
- Master's in Language Studies
- Master's in Area & Cultural Studies
Key Considerations for Master’s Applicants
-
Beyond TOEFL Scores: While TOEFL scores are essential, universities also evaluate other factors like your GPA, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
-
Programme-Specific Requirements: Some fields like Liberal Arts or Humanities may require higher scores, especially for programmes emphasising writing and presentation skills.
-
Sectional Scores Matter: Many universities also set minimum sectional requirements. Ensure your performance is well-rounded across Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
-
Plan Ahead: TOEFL test results take 6–10 days to process. Plan your test date to align with application deadlines.
Compare Programmes and Prepare
Your TOEFL score is just the first step in an exciting journey to studying in Europe. Take time to explore and compare programmes, understand the unique requirements of each university, and start your preparation early to maximise your chances.
Good luck, and get ready to take the next step in your academic journey!