New TOEFL 2026 Requirement for Sorbonne (Updated Admissions)

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Quick Answer

For 2026 admissions, Sorbonne University requires a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 120 (equivalent to CEFR C1) for most programs. The new 90-minute TOEFL iBT (implemented January 2026) aligns with CEFR levels (1-6). Engineering programs may require 130, while arts/humanities may accept 110. Sorbonne accepts both legacy 0-120 and new CEFR scores during the transition period ending 2027. Check specific department requirements before applying.

Detailed TOEFL Requirements for Sorbonne (2026)

Sorbonne University has updated its TOEFL requirements for the 2026 intake, aligning with ETS's new TOEFL iBT format (launched January 21, 2026). Most programs require a score of 120 (CEFR C1) under the legacy scale, with some departments requesting higher scores. Engineering programs typically require 130 (CEFR C2), while arts and humanities programs may accept 110 (CEFR B2).

New TOEFL iBT (2026) vs. Legacy Scores

| Score Type | Sorbonne Minimum | CEFR Equivalent | Notes | |-----------------|-------------------|----------------|--------------------------------| | Legacy (0-120) | 110-130 | B2-C2 | Accepted until 2027 | | New (1-6) | 4.5-5.5 | B2-C2 | CEFR-aligned scale | | New (0-120) | 110-130 | B2-C2 | Dual scoring during transition |

Sorbonne will accept both legacy and new scores during the 2-year transition period (2026-2027). After 2027, only new CEFR-aligned scores will be accepted. Always verify specific department requirements, as some programs may have higher thresholds.

Key Considerations for 2026 Applicants

1. Score Validity: TOEFL scores remain valid for two years post-test date.
2. Test Delivery: The new 90-minute TOEFL iBT is administered with custom stereophones at all test centers.
3. Score Report: Scores are delivered within 72 hours, not the previous 6 days.
4. Adaptive Sections: Reading and Listening sections are now multistage adaptive.
5. New Task Types: The Writing section includes an Integrated Task and a new Academic Discussion Task.

What NOT to Do

• Don't assume all programs have the same requirements: Engineering and medical programs at Sorbonne typically require higher TOEFL scores than arts or humanities programs.
• Don't rely on outdated information: The 2-hour TOEFL format and 0-120 scale are no longer relevant for 2026 admissions. Always check Sorbonne's official admissions portal for the most current requirements.
• Don't ignore department-specific notes: Some departments may have additional language requirements beyond the TOEFL score.
• Don't forget to verify score delivery times: Scores are now delivered in 72 hours, not 6 days, so plan your test date accordingly.
• Don't mix up the new and old scales: During the transition period, ensure you're comparing the correct score types (CEFR vs. legacy).

Quick-Reference Summary

• General Programs: 120 (CEFR C1) (legacy) or 5.0 (CEFR C1) (new scale)
• Engineering/Medical: 130 (CEFR C2) (legacy) or 5.5 (CEFR C2) (new scale)
• Arts/Humanities: 110 (CEFR B2) (legacy) or 4.5 (CEFR B2) (new scale)
• Transition Period: Both legacy and new scores accepted until 2027
• Test Duration: 90 minutes for the new TOEFL iBT
• Score Delivery: 72 hours post-test

Follow-Up Questions

What if I took the TOEFL before 2026?

If you took the TOEFL before January 21, 2026, your score will be reported on the legacy 0-120 scale. Sorbonne will accept these scores during the transition period (2026-2027) but will transition to accepting only new CEFR-aligned scores after 2027.

Can I submit IELTS scores instead of TOEFL?

Yes, Sorbonne accepts IELTS scores as an alternative to TOEFL. For 2026 admissions, the minimum IELTS requirement is typically 7.0 overall (with no band below 6.5). Check specific program requirements for variations.

How do I know if my program requires a higher TOEFL score?

Check Sorbonne's official admissions portal or contact the admissions office for your specific program. Some departments, particularly in STEM fields, may have higher language proficiency requirements.

What if my TOEFL score is slightly below the minimum?

Some programs may consider applicants with scores slightly below the minimum if other application materials are strong. However, meeting the minimum requirement significantly improves your chances of admission. Consider retaking the test if your score is below the threshold.

How do I prepare for the new TOEFL iBT format?

Familiarize yourself with the new test structure, including the multistage adaptive sections and the new Academic Discussion Writing task. Practice with updated materials and consider using AI-powered test prep platforms like English AIdol to simulate the new test conditions.

What if I need to retake the TOEFL?

You can retake the TOEFL as many times as needed, but you must wait at least 3 days between attempts. Plan your test dates carefully to ensure your scores arrive before application deadlines.

Practice for Success

Master the new TOEFL iBT with English AIdol's AI-powered test prep platform. Our app simulates the actual test experience, including multistage adaptive sections and the new Academic Discussion Writing task. Start practicing today to achieve your target score for Sorbonne University!