TOEIC for university admission and scholarships
Many universities and scholarship programs accept a TOEIC Listening & Reading score as proof of English proficiency, usually alongside or instead of other English tests. Check the exact score the program asks for, confirm how long ETS considers that score valid (commonly around two years), and sit the test early enough that you can retake it before your application deadline if needed.
Why schools and scholarship programs ask for TOEIC
Admissions offices and scholarship committees use an English test score as an objective, comparable way to check that an applicant can follow coursework, read academic material or communicate at work in English, without interviewing every applicant in person.
TOEIC Listening & Reading is one of several tests programs may accept; some ask specifically for TOEIC, others list it as one option among several English tests. Always check the program's own page rather than assuming.
Find the exact score the program requires
Requirements are set by each school or program, not by the TOEIC test itself, and they vary widely by country, degree level and field. Look for the minimum total score, and check whether the program also sets a minimum for each section (Listening and Reading) rather than just the total.
If a range is given instead of a hard minimum, treat the higher end as your real target: a borderline score can still mean a slower admissions review or a conditional offer.
Mind how long your score stays valid
ETS does not keep issuing a TOEIC score forever; most institutions only accept a score from within roughly the last two years, since English level can change over time. Check the specific program's rule, since some set a shorter window.
If your application deadline is far away, avoid testing too early - a strong score that expires before you submit forces a retake you did not need.
Sending the right official score report
ETS reports each test date's result separately, so if you have taken TOEIC more than once you choose which official report to send; a lower earlier attempt does not get averaged in or shown unless you send it yourself.
Follow the program's instructions for how they want the score delivered (an official report, a copy of your score certificate, or a direct report from ETS) - submitting the wrong format can delay your application even with a qualifying score.
Building your timeline around the deadline
- Work backward from the application deadline and leave room for at least one retake if your first score falls short.
- Book your first attempt early enough that a retake, if needed, still arrives before the deadline and within the program's validity window.
- Study your weakest section first using a focused plan, since most programs weigh Listening and Reading separately rather than only the combined total.
Frequently asked questions
Do all universities accept TOEIC for admission?
No. Some accept TOEIC Listening & Reading, some require a different test, and some accept several options. Always check the specific program's English requirement page.
How long is a TOEIC score valid for university or scholarship applications?
Most institutions only accept scores from within about the last two years, but the exact window is set by each program, so confirm it directly with them.
Can I send my highest TOEIC score if I took the test more than once?
Yes. ETS reports each test date separately, and you choose which official score report to send, so you are not required to disclose a lower earlier attempt.
