NEW TOEFL 2026 Score Requirement for ETH Zurich

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Direct Answer

As of January 21, 2026, ETH Zurich requires a minimum TOEFL iBT score equivalent to 100 (B2/C1 CEFR). The new 90-minute test uses a 1-6 CEFR-aligned scale, with legacy 0-120 scores also accepted during the transition period. Some programs may require higher scores.

Detailed Requirements

ETH Zurich accepts both the new TOEFL iBT (2026) and legacy scores (0-120) until further notice. For most engineering and science programs, the minimum requirement is:

• New TOEFL iBT (1-6 scale): 4.5 (B2/C1 CEFR)
• Legacy TOEFL iBT (0-120): 100

Competitive programs like Computer Science or Biomedical Engineering may demand higher scores, often requiring:

• New TOEFL iBT: 5.0 (C1+ CEFR)
• Legacy TOEFL iBT: 110

Program-Specific Requirements

While the general minimum is 100 (legacy) or 4.5 (new scale), some departments set higher benchmarks:

• Computer Science: 110 (legacy) or 5.0 (new)
• Biomedical Engineering: 105 (legacy) or 4.8 (new)
• Physics: 100 (legacy) or 4.5 (new)

Check the official ETH Zurich admissions page for updates.

Common Misconceptions

1. 'ETH Zurich Only Accepts Legacy TOEFL Scores'

❌ False. ETH Zurich accepts both legacy (0-120) and new (1-6) TOEFL scores until further notice.

2. 'The Minimum Score is 100 for All Programs'

❌ Not always. Competitive programs may require 110 (legacy) or 5.0 (new).

3. 'TOEFL Scores Expire After 1 Year'

❌ Incorrect. ETH Zurich accepts TOEFL scores valid for 2 years from the test date.

4. 'No Minimum Score for Some Programs'

❌ False. Even if not explicitly stated, most ETH Zurich programs require at least 100 (legacy) or 4.5 (new).

5. 'ETH Zurich Prefer IELTS Over TOEFL'

❌ No preference. ETH Zurich accepts both TOEFL and IELTS, with equivalent scores required.

Quick Summary

• General Minimum (Legacy): 100 (0-120)
• General Minimum (New): 4.5 (1-6 CEFR)
• Competitive Programs: Up to 110 (legacy) or 5.0 (new)
• Accepted Until: Further notice (dual-scoring transition)
• Expiration: Valid for 2 years

Follow-Up Questions

1. What is the ETH Zurich TOEFL requirement for Computer Science?

ETH Zurich's Computer Science program requires a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 110 (legacy) or 5.0 (new).

2. Can I apply with a TOEFL score below 100?

No. ETH Zurich requires a minimum TOEFL score of 100 (legacy) or 4.5 (new) for admission.

3. How long are TOEFL scores valid for ETH Zurich admission?

TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years from the test date for ETH Zurich admission.

4. Does ETH Zurich accept the new TOEFL iBT (2026)?

Yes. ETH Zurich accepts both the new TOEFL iBT (1-6 scale) and legacy (0-120) scores.

5. What is the equivalent IELTS score for ETH Zurich admission?

ETH Zurich requires an IELTS score of 6.5 (with no sub-score below 6.0) as an alternative to TOEFL.

6. When should I take the TOEFL for ETH Zurich admission?

It’s best to take the TOEFL at least 3 months before your application deadline to ensure score reporting and processing time.

7. Can I apply with an older TOEFL score?

Yes, as long as your TOEFL score is within 2 years of your application deadline.

8. Are there any scholarships for students with high TOEFL scores?

ETH Zurich does not currently offer scholarships specifically based on TOEFL scores, but high scores can strengthen your application for merit-based scholarships.

ETH Zurich TOEFL Requirements Stats

| Statistic | Value | Source | |-----------|-------|--------| | Minimum TOEFL (Legacy) | 100 | ETH Zurich Admissions (2026) | | Minimum TOEFL (New) | 4.5 | ETH Zurich Admissions (2026) | | Competitive Program Minimum | 110 (legacy) or 5.0 (new) | ETH Zurich Admissions (2026) | | Score Validity Period | 2 years | ETH Zurich Admissions (2026) | | Accepts New TOEFL iBT (2026) | Yes | ETH Zurich Admissions (2026) |

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