Planning to study in the UK with a TOEFL score? The good news is that most UK universities, including every Russell Group university, still accept TOEFL. However, entry requirements aren't the same everywhere. Some universities have updated their English language policies, and many now place greater emphasis on minimum section scores.
This guide explains which TOEFL accepting universities in UK accept the test. Plus, we will cover the score you’ll need, how TOEFL fits into the UK’s student visa process, and what your options are if your score falls short.
Top 20 TOEFL Accepting Universities in UK 2026
The table below covers TOEFL requirements UK universities have set for 2026 entry. Always verify against each university's official English language requirements page before applying, as figures are updated between cycles.
University | QS Rank 2026 | Min. TOEFL iBT | Sub-score Requirements |
4 | 100–110 | Minimum 22–25 in each section (varies by course) | |
6 | 100–110 | Many programs require at least 25 in Writing | |
2 | 92–100 | Standard: min. 20 in each section; Business School: 100 overall, min. 22 in each section | |
9 | 92–100 | At 100 overall: min. 25 in Reading and Writing, min. 23 in Speaking and Listening | |
56 | 100 | Reading: 25, Listening: 22, Writing: 24, Speaking: 22 (Higher level programs) | |
34 | 92 | Minimum 20 in each section (most courses) | |
31 | 92–100 | Minimum 22 in each section | |
35 | 87–100 | Minimum 20 in each section | |
51 | 88 | Minimum 20 in each section | |
74 | 90–95 | Speaking: minimum 22 (course-dependent) | |
76 | 88 | Minimum 21 in each section | |
94 | 92 | Minimum 23 in each section | |
79 | 90 | Minimum 20 in each section | |
92 | 79–88 | Varies by programs | |
87 | 79–88 | Minimum 17–19 in each section | |
86 | 79–88 | Varies by programs | |
97 | 79–88 | Varies by programs | |
179 | 90 | Minimum 20 in each section | |
110 | 88 | Minimum 20–22 in each section | |
153 | 79–88 | Varies by programs |
Note: Oxford and Cambridge policies have changed. It's best to check the official websites for details and requirements before applying.
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How Have Oxford and Cambridge Changed Their TOEFL Policies in 2026?
Oxford and Cambridge have both updated their TOEFL policies after ETS introduced the revised TOEFL scoring system in January 2026. This does not mean that TOEFL has been completely removed, but applicants should be aware of the changes before applying.
Oxford currently has restrictions around newer TOEFL tests introduced after 21 January 2026, so applicants should check the latest course-specific requirements before applying.
Cambridge still accepts TOEFL for postgraduate admissions. However, applicants who take the updated TOEFL format may also need to complete an additional assessment through the Cambridge Language Centre. Undergraduate applicants should check Cambridge's separate English language requirements, as TOEFL acceptance depends on the level of study.
TOEFL Score Requirements by Subject: Top UK University Programs
The TOEFL score you need can vary depending on both your course and the university you choose. Here’s a look at the typical minimum score for competitive programs across some of the UK’s leading universities.
Subject | Typical TOEFL iBT Score | Example Universities |
Engineering | 88–100 | Imperial College London, UCL, University of Edinburgh, University of Manchester, University of Bristol |
Computer Science & Data Science | 92–100 | Imperial College London, UCL, University of Edinburgh, University of Manchester |
Business & MBA | 90–100 | Imperial College London, University of Edinburgh, University of Manchester, LSE |
Natural Sciences | 100–110 | University of Cambridge, UCL, University of Edinburgh |
Mathematics | 100–110 | University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, UCL |
Medicine & Dentistry | 100+ | UCL, King's College London, University of Edinburgh |
Law | 88–110 | LSE, UCL, King's College London, University of Bristol |
Humanities | 100+ | King's College London, University of Edinburgh, LSE |
Politics & Social Sciences | 100+ | LSE, UCL |
Economics & Finance | 100+ | LSE, UCL, University of Edinburgh |
Note: The scores above show the typical minimum TOEFL iBT score for competitive programs in each subject area at leading UK universities. Requirements vary by institution and course; always verify on the official admissions page for your chosen programs before applying.
What to Do If Things Go Wrong?
Even with careful planning, TOEFL-related issues can still come up during the application process. Here’s how you can deal with them.
Your TOEFL score is below the required minimum
If your score is lower than what your university asks for, you still have a few options. The most straightforward one is to retake the TOEFL, since ETS allows you to sit the test again after a minimum waiting period of three days.
Another option is to take a pre-sessional English course, which many UK universities offer to help students meet language requirements. However, it's important to check this carefully, as a lot of universities require IELTS or PTE specifically for pre-sessional routes. These courses usually last around six to twelve weeks and can cost between £400 and £1,000.
You may also receive a conditional offer, where the university allows you to meet the English language requirement before your course starts.
Your Home Edition score was rejected
When it comes to TOEFL Home Edition, LSE rejects it outright, and so does Manchester. If your application deadline is within six weeks and you only have a Home Edition result, book a test in an official centre immediately.
Your score arrived after the deadline
Email the admissions team with your ETS order confirmation number as proof that the score was dispatched. Most universities accept late score deliveries within five to seven working days of the application deadline, but contact them proactively; don’t wait.
Your MyBest score is not accepted
LSE, Manchester, and Imperial do not accept TOEFL MyBest scores. If you’ve been relying on Super Score-style reporting, check whether your target university is on this list before submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all universities in the UK accept TOEFL?
Yes, most UK universities still accept TOEFL in 2026, including all Russell Group universities, except for Oxford, with its new policy. However, a few universities have updated how they use TOEFL rather than removing it altogether. For example, Cambridge still accepts TOEFL. The main change is that if you take the test after 21 January 2026, you’ll need to complete an online assessment through the University of Cambridge Language Centre.
Since English language requirements can change from one admission cycle to the next, it's always best to check the university’s official admissions page before you apply instead of relying on third-party websites.
Can I use TOEFL for a UK student visa?
Yes, in most cases, if you're applying for a degree-level course. While TOEFL isn’t a UKVI-approved Secure English Language Test (SELT), many UK universities can use your TOEFL results to confirm your English language ability through your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), which is accepted as part of your student visa application.
Is there a minimum TOEFL score required for UK universities?
Yes, but the required score depends on both the university and the course you’re applying for. Many universities often expect somewhere between 88 and 92, while highly competitive postgraduate courses at LSE, UCL, Imperial, and Oxford usually require an overall score of 100 or more.
Keep in mind that many universities also set minimum scores for each section of the test, so meeting the overall score alone may not be enough.
What is the validity period for TOEFL scores?
TOEFL scores are valid for two years from the date you take the test. If your scores are more than two years old when you apply, you’ll need to retake the exam. This is especially important if you’re planning to defer your place or apply after taking a gap year, as your score must still be valid when your application is assessed.
Can a student apply to UK universities without a TOEFL score?
Yes, TOEFL is just one of several English language tests accepted by UK universities. For students weighing the TOEFL vs. IELTS decision for UK universities, IELTS Academic is worth considering. IELTS can also be used as a Secure English Language Test for visa purposes. Many universities also accept the PTE Academic, the Cambridge C1 Advanced, and the Cambridge C2 Proficiency.
Some applicants may not need to take an English language test at all. If you’ve already completed a degree that was taught in English, you might qualify for an exemption. Check your university’s English language requirements to see whether this applies to you.
How do I send my TOEFL scores to UK universities?
Send your score through ETS. When you register for the TOEFL, you can choose up to four universities to receive your score at no extra cost by using their ETS Destination Institution (DI) codes. In some cases, you might need to send additional score reports. ETS typically charges around $25 for each institution.
Most TOEFL-accepting universities in the UK require official scores sent directly from ETS. So, it's best not to try self-reporting. Your results are typically available in your ETS account within three days of your test, although universities may need a little longer to receive them.
Which UK universities have changed their TOEFL policy since 2024?
The biggest change has been in Cambridge. Cambridge TOEFL 2026 now requires applicants to complete an online assessment through the University of Cambridge Language Centre. Glasgow continues to accept TOEFL, although the score requirements vary between departments. More broadly, UK universities have generally focused on tightening sub-score requirements instead of removing TOEFL altogether.
As policies can change, it’s worth checking the university’s official English language requirements before you apply.
Do Scottish universities accept TOEFL?
Yes, most Scottish universities accept TOEFL, although the required scores vary. For example, Edinburgh normally asks for an overall score of at least 92 with a minimum of 20 in each section, while some courses require 100. Glasgow also accepts the TOEFL across most programs. However, requirements vary for different departments.
Do universities look down on the TOEFL Home Edition?
It depends on the university. Some universities, including LSE and Manchester, don’t accept TOEFL Home Edition results at all. Others do, and where it's accepted, admissions teams generally treat it the same as a test taken at a test centre. If you’re applying for a competitive course, it's best to take the test at an official centre to avoid unnecessary questions during the admission process.
Can a TOEFL writing score just at the minimum get me accepted?
Yes, it can. However, meeting the minimum doesn’t always make you a strong applicant. For courses that rely heavily on academic writing, such as law, humanities, and many social science programs, the admissions team may look more closely at your writing score.
If you have the opportunity, it’s worth aiming for a few points above the minimum rather than just scraping through.
Can I use the TOEFL UK student visa, or do I need IELTS?
In many cases, yes. If you’re applying for a degree-level course, your university can usually confirm that you’ve met its English language requirements through your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). This means a TOEFL score is often sufficient.
However, if you’re applying for a foundation course or a pre-sessional English program, you’ll normally need an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT).
Are MyBest scores accepted by UK universities?
Not always. Nottingham accepts TOEFL MyBest scores for some programs, while others don’t. It's also worth remembering that policies can vary between departments, so always check the English language requirements for the specific course you’re applying to.
I have a strong overall TOEFL but a weak sub-score. Will that disqualify me?
It's possible to be disqualified in this situation. Many UK universities look at both your overall TOEFL score and your score in each section. Universities such as LSE, UCL, Imperial, and Oxford all publish minimum section requirements, and applicants are expected to meet both the overall score and the section-specific thresholds.
That’s why it's important to check the full entry requirements rather than focusing only on your total score.
Where can a student find support and guidance for applying to UK universities with TOEFL scores?
Your first stop will always be the university’s official admissions or international student website. That’s where you’ll find the latest English language requirements for your chosen course, including accepted tests, minimum scores, and any department-specific rules.
