English guide
Learn about the English test requirements for London Business School MBA in 2026. Discover accepted tests, minimum scores, and key details to help you meet LBS's language proficiency standards.
What this guide covers
Search answer
Learn about the English test requirements for London Business School MBA in 2026. Discover accepted tests, minimum scores, and key details to help you meet LBS's language proficiency standards.
Related guides:
London Business School (LBS) accepts TOEFL iBT (updated January 21, 2026), IELTS Academic, and PTE Academic for MBA applications. Minimum scores: TOEFL 109 (old scale) or 5.0 (new CEFR scale), IELTS 7.5, or PTE 72. These requirements apply for the 2026 intake. LBS does not accept Cambridge English exams for MBA admissions.
Minimum Score: 109 (old scale) or 5.0 (new CEFR scale, starting July 2026) Test Format: 90-minute adaptive test with Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing sections Score Validity: 2 years from the test date
LBS requires TOEFL scores sent directly from ETS. Use LBS's institution code (0974) when registering. The new TOEFL iBT format, launching January 21, 2026, includes multistage adaptive sections and a CEFR-aligned scoring system (1-6 scale).
Minimum Score: 7.5 overall, with no sub-score below 6.5 Test Format: 2-hour 45-minute test with Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking sections
IELTS scores must be sent electronically to LBS. The test must be taken within two years of your application submission. LBS accepts both IELTS Academic and IELTS Indicator (online test).
Minimum Score: 72 overall, with no sub-score below 59 Test Format: 2-hour test with Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening sections
PTE Academic scores must be sent directly to LBS. The test must be taken within two years of your application submission.
| Test | Minimum Score | Score Validity | Send Method | |--------------------|----------------|----------------|-----------------------------| | TOEFL iBT | 109 (old) or 5.0 (new) | 2 years | Directly from ETS | | IELTS Academic | 7.5 overall | 2 years | Electronic to LBS | | PTE Academic | 72 overall | 2 years | Directly to LBS |
If you're applying to LBS MBA, use English AIdol's study abroad tools to find the best test prep resources and university admission support. Our platform offers AI-powered practice tests, score predictors, and personalized study plans to help you meet LBS's English language requirements.
LBS may consider applications with scores slightly below the minimum if other evidence of English proficiency is provided, such as previous education in English or work experience in an English-speaking environment. However, competitive applicants typically meet or exceed the minimum scores.
Yes, LBS considers the highest valid score from each section across multiple test attempts. For example, you can combine your highest Reading score from one test with your highest Listening score from another.
LBS does not offer English language waivers for MBA applicants. All applicants must submit valid test scores, regardless of previous education or work experience in English.
If you took the TOEFL iBT before January 21, 2026, your score will be reported on the old 0-120 scale. LBS will accept scores of 109 or higher. Scores taken after January 21, 2026, will be reported on the new 1-6 CEFR scale, with a minimum requirement of 5.0.
English proficiency is critical for success in the LBS MBA program. The curriculum involves extensive reading, writing, and discussion in English. According to LBS, students with strong English skills perform better academically and contribute more effectively to group projects and class discussions.
[]
Learn about the English test requirements for London Business School MBA in 2026. Discover accepted tests, minimum scores, and key details to help you meet LBS's language proficiency standards.
London Business School MBA, English test requirements, TOEFL for LBS, IELTS for LBS, PTE for LBS, LBS MBA English policy, MBA application requirements, study abroad English tests
Use ETS's institution code (0974) when registering for the TOEFL iBT. Scores are sent directly to LBS electronically. Ensure you select London Business School as a score recipient during registration.
LBS requires all English test scores to be submitted by the application deadline. Late submissions are not guaranteed to be reviewed. Check the LBS MBA admissions website for specific deadlines.
Yes, you can retake the test as many times as needed. However, ensure you leave enough time to achieve the required score before the application deadline. LBS considers the highest valid score from each section across multiple test attempts.
LBS does not prefer one test over another. All accepted tests (TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, PTE Academic) are given equal consideration. Choose the test that best fits your strengths and preparation style.
LBS accommodates applicants with disabilities. Contact ETS (TOEFL), IELTS, or PTE Academic directly to request accommodations. Ensure you provide documentation of your disability and follow the testing organization's policies.