NEW TOEFL 2026 Requirement for Notre Dame (Updated Admissions)

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Notre Dame's 2026 TOEFL iBT Score Requirements

For 2026 admissions, Notre Dame requires a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 5.0 (equivalent to 94-101 on the legacy 0-120 scale) for undergraduate programs. Graduate programs typically require 5.5-6.0 (109-120 legacy). The new 90-minute test uses a 1-6 CEFR scale during the 2-year transition. Check specific departments for exact requirements.

Notre Dame's admissions office has updated their requirements to align with ETS's 2026 TOEFL iBT changes. The university recognizes the new 1-6 CEFR scale but provides legacy score equivalents for clarity. Undergraduate programs generally require a 5.0 (94-101), while graduate programs may require 5.5-6.0 (109-120). Engineering and business programs often have higher requirements, typically 5.5 (109) or above.

The new TOEFL iBT test format, launched on January 21, 2026, is 90 minutes long and features multistage adaptive reading and listening sections. Writing includes an Integrated task and Academic Discussion task, while speaking has 4 updated tasks. Scores are delivered within 72 hours. Notre Dame's admissions committee considers these scores alongside other application materials.

Common Misconceptions About Notre Dame's TOEFL Requirements

1. Misconception: Notre Dame only accepts the old 0-120 scale.

• Fact: Notre Dame accepts both the new 1-6 CEFR scale and legacy 0-120 scores during the 2-year transition.

1. Misconception: All graduate programs require the same TOEFL score.

• Fact: Requirements vary by department, with some programs requiring 5.5 (109) and others 6.0 (120).

1. Misconception: The new TOEFL test is easier than the old one.

• Fact: The test is shorter but more focused, with no significant difficulty reduction. Adaptive sections may challenge test-takers differently.

1. Misconception: Notre Dame only considers TOEFL scores from specific test dates.

• Fact: Notre Dame accepts valid TOEFL scores from any test date, as long as they are within the validity period (2 years).

1. Misconception: The new test doesn't require preparation.

• Fact: The new test format demands familiarity with multistage adaptive sections and updated task types. Preparation is still essential.

Quick-Reference Table: Notre Dame TOEFL Requirements

| Program Type | Minimum Score (1-6 CEFR) | Legacy Equivalent (0-120) | Notes | |--------------------|---------------------------|-------------------------------|--------------------------------| | Undergraduate | 5.0 | 94-101 | Most programs | | Graduate (General) | 5.5 | 109-113 | Varies by department | | Engineering | 5.5 | 109-113 | Some programs require 6.0 | | Business | 5.5 | 109-113 | MBA may require 6.0 | | Law | 6.0 | 114-120 | Check specific program | | Medicine | 6.0 | 114-120 | Check specific program |

Related Follow-Up Questions

1. What is the minimum TOEFL score required for Notre Dame's undergraduate programs in 2026?

• Notre Dame requires a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 5.0 (equivalent to 94-101 on the legacy 0-120 scale) for undergraduate programs in 2026.

1. How does Notre Dame's graduate TOEFL requirement compare to other top universities?

• Notre Dame's graduate TOEFL requirements are competitive, with most programs requiring 5.5-6.0 (109-120 legacy). This is similar to other top universities like University of Chicago or Northwestern.

1. Can I submit both old and new TOEFL scores to Notre Dame?

• Yes, Notre Dame accepts both the new 1-6 CEFR scale and legacy 0-120 scores during the 2-year transition period.

1. How long does it take to receive TOEFL scores for Notre Dame admissions?

• Scores are delivered within 72 hours of completing the test, allowing for timely submission to Notre Dame.

1. Does Notre Dame accept TOEFL MyBest scores?

• Notre Dame accepts TOEFL MyBest scores, which combine your highest section scores from multiple test dates.

1. What if my TOEFL score is slightly below Notre Dame's requirement?

• If your score is slightly below the requirement, consider retaking the test or providing additional evidence of English proficiency, such as strong grades in English courses or other standardized tests.

1. How does Notre Dame view TOEFL scores in relation to other application materials?

• Notre Dame considers TOEFL scores alongside your GPA, recommendation letters, essays, and other application materials to assess your overall academic profile.

1. Are there any exceptions to Notre Dame's TOEFL requirements?

• Notre Dame may grant exceptions to the TOEFL requirement for applicants who have completed a certain number of years of study in an English-medium institution or who are from countries where English is the official language.

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