University of Chicago TOEFL 2026 Score Requirement

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The University of Chicago requires a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 100 (legacy scale) or 4.5 (new CEFR scale) for undergraduate admissions. Graduate programs typically require 105 (legacy) or 4.75 (new). Scores must be from tests taken after January 21, 2026. The University accepts both legacy and new scores during the transition period until December 31, 2027.

Detailed University of Chicago TOEFL Requirements

Undergraduate Programs

For undergraduate admissions, the University of Chicago specifies:

• Minimum score: 100 (legacy) or 4.5 (new CEFR scale)
• Competitive range: 105-115 (legacy) or 4.75-5.5 (new)
• Test date: After January 21, 2026

Graduate Programs

Graduate programs have higher requirements:

• Minimum score: 105 (legacy) or 4.75 (new CEFR scale)
• Competitive range: 110-120 (legacy) or 5.0-5.5 (new)
• Test date: After January 21, 2026

Transition Period

The University of Chicago accepts both:

• Scores from the old format (taken before January 21, 2026)
• Scores from the new format (taken after January 21, 2026)

The transition period lasts until December 31, 2027, after which only new format scores will be accepted.

What NOT to Do

1. Don't rely on outdated information: Ensure your score report is from the current format (post-January 21, 2026) unless you're applying during the transition period

1. Don't assume all programs have the same requirements: Check specific program requirements as graduate programs often require higher scores

1. Don't ignore the score delivery timing: Plan to take the test early as scores are delivered in 72 hours, not 6 days

1. Don't forget about the new task types: Prepare for the Academic Discussion task in the Writing section and updated contexts in Speaking

1. Don't neglect the new scoring scale: Understand the CEFR alignment (1-6) alongside the legacy 0-120 scale during the transition

Common Misconceptions

1. Misconception: The test is still 2 hours long

• Fact: The new TOEFL iBT is 90 minutes long

1. Misconception: The score report takes 6 days

• Fact: Scores are delivered in 72 hours

1. Misconception: You can use any old score

• Fact: Scores must be from tests taken after January 21, 2026 unless applying during the transition period

1. Misconception: The scoring is still 0-120

• Fact: The new scale is 1-6 (CEFR-aligned) with dual scoring during the transition

1. Misconception: The test format is unchanged

• Fact: The test includes new passage types and task formats

Quick Reference

| Program Level | Minimum Score (Legacy) | Minimum Score (New) | Competitive Range (Legacy) | Competitive Range (New) | |---------------|----------------------|---------------------|--------------------------|------------------------| | Undergraduate | 100 | 4.5 | 105-115 | 4.75-5.5 | | Graduate | 105 | 4.75 | 110-120 | 5.0-5.5 |

Related Questions

1. How often does the University of Chicago update its TOEFL requirements?

The University reviews language requirements annually, typically updating them in the spring for the following admissions cycle.

1. Are there any exceptions to the TOEFL requirement?

The University may waive the requirement for students who complete four years of college preparatory work in the United States or other English-speaking countries.

1. How does the University of Chicago handle test scores taken just before the change?

Scores from the old format taken before January 21, 2026 are still valid during the transition period until December 31, 2027.

1. What if my score is just below the minimum requirement?

The University considers applicants holistically, but meeting the minimum score requirement significantly strengthens your application.

1. How are the new CEFR scores converted to the legacy scale?

ETS provides a conversion table showing how new scores map to the legacy 0-120 scale during the transition period.

1. What is the average TOEFL score for admitted students at the University of Chicago?

The middle 50% of admitted undergraduates score between 110-120 (legacy) or 5.0-5.5 (new) in the Writing and Speaking sections.

1. How long are TOEFL scores valid for University of Chicago admissions?

Scores are valid for two years after the test date, matching ETS's policy.

1. Can I submit both old and new format scores?

Yes, during the transition period you can submit both, but your application will be evaluated based on the most recent valid score.

Practice Makes Perfect

Confident in your TOEFL preparation? Take a full-length practice test in the English AIdol app to simulate the new 90-minute test experience with adaptive sections and the new Academic Discussion task. Our AI scoring engine provides immediate feedback aligned with University of Chicago's expectations.