English Test Requirements for Columbia Business School MBA (2026)

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Columbia Business School MBA 2026 accepts TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, and Duolingo English Test. Minimum scores: TOEFL 110 (CEFR C1), IELTS 7.5 (CEFR C1), or Duolingo 135. Tests must be taken within two years of application.

Accepted English Proficiency Tests

Columbia Business School MBA program accepts the following English proficiency tests for 2026 admission:

• TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 110 (CEFR C1). The new 90-minute test format includes multistage adaptive Reading & Listening sections, an Integrated Writing task, and an Academic Discussion task.
• IELTS Academic: Minimum overall band score of 7.5 (CEFR C1). This includes no band score below 7.0 in any of the four modules (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking).
• Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 135 (CEFR C1). This test is accepted but is less commonly used for MBA admissions.

Application Deadlines and Test Validity

• Application Deadlines: Round 1 (October 2, 2025), Round 2 (January 7, 2026), Round 3 (April 1, 2026).
• Test Validity: Tests must be taken within two years of the application deadline. For example, if applying in Round 1, tests taken before October 2, 2023, will not be accepted.

Common Misconceptions

1. TOEFL Score Requirements: Some applicants believe the old 0-120 scale is still in use. The new 1-6 CEFR-aligned scale (with legacy 0-120 dual-scoring) is now standard. Aim for 110 (CEFR C1).
2. IELTS Band Scores: A common mistake is assuming a 7.0 overall band score is sufficient. Columbia requires a 7.5 overall, with no band score below 7.0.
3. Duolingo Acceptance: While Duolingo is accepted, it is less commonly used for MBA admissions. Ensure your score meets the 135 requirement.
4. Test Validity Period: Tests taken more than two years before the application deadline are not accepted, even if they meet the score requirements.
5. English Medium Instruction: Applicants who completed their undergraduate or graduate studies in English-medium institutions may still need to submit English proficiency test scores, depending on the institution and country.

Quick Reference Table

| Test | Minimum Score | CEFR Level | Validity Period | |---------------------|-------------|------------|------------------| | TOEFL iBT | 110 | C1 | Within 2 years | | IELTS Academic | 7.5 | C1 | Within 2 years | | Duolingo English Test | 135 | C1 | Within 2 years |

Related Follow-up Questions

1. What is the difference between the old and new TOEFL iBT format?

• The new TOEFL iBT is 90 minutes long, uses a 1-6 CEFR-aligned scale (with legacy 0-120 dual-scoring), and includes multistage adaptive Reading & Listening sections, an Integrated Writing task, and an Academic Discussion task.

1. Can I submit both TOEFL and IELTS scores?

• Yes, you can submit multiple test scores. Columbia will consider the highest valid score from each test.

1. What if my English proficiency test score is below the minimum requirement?

• Applicants with scores below the minimum requirement may still be considered if they meet other admission criteria, but it is less likely.

1. Are there any exceptions to the English proficiency test requirement?

• Applicants who have completed their undergraduate or graduate studies in English-medium institutions may be exempt, but this is determined on a case-by-case basis.

1. How do I send my English proficiency test scores to Columbia Business School?

• For TOEFL, use the ETS institution code 2049. For IELTS, request your test center to send your scores electronically. For Duolingo, upload your score report directly to the application portal.

1. What if I take the test after submitting my application?

• You can still submit your scores after the application deadline, but it is recommended to take the test well in advance to avoid delays in the admission process.

1. Can I retake the English proficiency test if I am not satisfied with my score?

• Yes, you can retake the test as many times as needed. Only the highest valid score will be considered.

1. How long does it take to receive my English proficiency test scores?

• TOEFL scores are delivered within 72 hours, IELTS scores within 13 days, and Duolingo scores are available immediately after completion.

Practice for Your English Test

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