Oxford Said MBA English Test Requirements (2026)

Related guides:

• Cost of Studying in Belgium + English Test Prep Budget
• Cost of Studying in Malta + English Test Prep Budget
• DAAD English Test Requirements (2026)
• How to Move to Sweden: English Test Guide (2026)
• IELTS vs TOEFL iBT for USA (2026 Guide)

Quick Answer

Oxford Saïd MBA accepts the following English proficiency tests for 2026 entry:

• TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 110 (new 1-6 scale) or 110 (legacy 0-120 scale during transition)
• IELTS Academic: Minimum overall band score of 7.5, with no sub-score below 7.0
• C1 Advanced: Minimum score of 193

All test scores must be valid within 2 years of the application deadline.

Detailed Requirements

Accepted English Tests

The Oxford Saïd MBA program accepts three primary English proficiency tests:

1. TOEFL iBT (2026 format): The new 90-minute test with a 1-6 CEFR-aligned scale. During the 2-year transition (2026-2027), ETS will also provide legacy 0-120 scores. Oxford Saïd requires a minimum of 110 (or equivalent on the new scale).
2. IELTS Academic: The IELTS Academic test is accepted with a minimum overall band score of 7.5 and no sub-score below 7.0.
3. C1 Advanced: This test requires a minimum score of 193.

Application Deadlines and Score Validity

All English test scores must be valid within 2 years of the application deadline. For the 2026 intake, the deadlines are as follows:

• Round 1: 7 September 2025
• Round 2: 9 November 2025
• Round 3: 8 January 2026
• Round 4: 21 March 2026

Additional Notes

• Exemptions: Applicants who have studied for a full degree in English in a majority English-speaking country may be exempt. Check the Oxford Saïd MBA admissions page for details.
• Test Centers: Ensure your test center can send scores directly to Oxford Saïd MBA. The institution code for TOEFL is 0757.

What NOT to Do

Common Misconceptions

1. Assuming the old TOEFL scores are acceptable: The new TOEFL iBT test (2026) is significantly different. Ensure you are preparing for the correct format.
2. Ignoring sub-score requirements: For IELTS, all sub-scores must be at least 7.0, not just the overall score.
3. Submitting test scores after the deadline: Scores must be valid and received by the application deadline.
4. Not checking for updates: Policies can change. Always verify the latest requirements on the official Oxford Saïd MBA admissions page.
5. Assuming exemptions apply: Even if you studied in an English-speaking country, you may still need to take an English test. Check the exemption criteria carefully.

Quick Reference

Summary of Requirements

| Test | Minimum Score | Validity Period | |----------------------|----------------------|------------------------| | TOEFL iBT (2026) | 110 (new) or 110 (legacy) | Within 2 years of application | | IELTS Academic | 7.5 overall, 7.0 in each sub-score | Within 2 years of application | | C1 Advanced | 193 | Within 2 years of application |

Related Follow-Up Questions

FAQs

1. Q: Can I submit both TOEFL and IELTS scores?

A: Yes, you can submit multiple test scores, but you only need to meet the minimum requirement of one accepted test.

2. Q: What if my test score is slightly below the minimum requirement?

A: Oxford Saïd MBA generally does not consider scores below the minimum requirement. It's best to aim for scores above the minimum.

3. Q: How do I know if I qualify for an exemption?

A: Check the Oxford Saïd MBA admissions page for detailed exemption criteria.

4. Q: Can I retake the test if I don't meet the requirement?

A: Yes, you can retake the test, but ensure the new score is received by the application deadline.

5. Q: What if my test score expires before the program starts?

A: Your test score must be valid at the time of application, not necessarily at the start of the program.

6. Q: How do I send my test scores to Oxford Saïd MBA?

A: Most test centers allow you to send scores directly to the institution. For TOEFL, use the institution code 0757.

7. Q: What if I have a disability and need testing accommodations?

A: Contact the test center and Oxford Saïd MBA admissions office for accommodations.

8. Q: Can I use an older version of the TOEFL test?

A: During the transition period (2026-2027), both new and legacy scores are accepted, but ensure you meet the minimum requirement.

Practice for Your English Test

Prepare effectively for your English test with English AIdol, an AI-powered test prep platform. Use our University Finder to explore other programs and their English test requirements.