As of January 21, 2026, TOEFL iBT uses a new score scale from 1 to 6 in half-band increments. The update is designed to make results easier to understand and more intuitive when viewed alongside the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). For prospective students, this does not mean that their English ability is suddenly being assessed against a different standard. The main change is how scores are reported and interpreted.
What Has Changed in TOEFL iBT Scoring?
Under the previous scale, each TOEFL iBT section received a score from 0 to 30, with the four section scores added together for a total between 0 and 120. Under the updated system, Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing are each reported on a 1–6 scale. The overall result is the average of the four section scores, rounded to the nearest half band.
This gives every section a consistent numerical language. For example, a score of 5 in any individual section corresponds to C1 proficiency for that skill. Students and institutions can therefore identify strengths across the four skills more quickly.
How the 1–6 Scale Aligns with CEFR
The updated score scale is intended to align more intuitively with CEFR proficiency levels. In summary:
- 6: C2
- 5–5.5: C1
- 4–4.5: B2
- 3–3.5: B1
- 2–2.5: A2
- 1–1.5: A1
This alignment can help universities connect admissions requirements with the level of English proficiency their programs actually demand. Students should still check each institution’s official policy, as universities may set different minimum requirements for the overall score and for individual sections.
Comparing the New Scale with 0–120
ETS provides guidance for institutions that previously used common total-score requirements. Its recommendations match an old requirement of 100 with band 5, 90 with band 4.5, 80 with band 4, and 70 with band 3.5.
These comparisons are not simple one-to-one conversions. A single band on the new scale can cover several scores from the old scale. For instance, band 5 corresponds to an estimated old total-score range of approximately 95–106. Raising a former requirement of 100 directly to band 5.5 could therefore exclude applicants who would have met the previous standard. Institutions are encouraged to consider CEFR level, overall performance, and section-specific needs together.
What Will Appear on Score Reports?
During the two-year transition after the new scale was introduced, score reports include three key pieces of information:
- The test taker’s CEFR level;
- Overall and section scores on the 1–6 scale; and
- A comparable total score on the 0–120 scale.
This dual reporting gives students and institutions time to adjust. ETS states that institutions may begin receiving score reports showing only the 1–6 scale from January 2028.
What Does This Mean for Prospective Students?
Your core test-preparation strategy does not need to change. Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing still need balanced development. The updated scale can make your skill profile easier to interpret. If your intended program requires especially strong writing or speaking ability, individual section scores may matter just as much as the overall result.
Before submitting an application, take these three steps:
- Check whether the university has updated its TOEFL iBT requirements to the 1–6 scale.
- Confirm which requirement applies to your test date, particularly if you hold an older score that is still valid.
- Review minimum section scores as well as the overall score requirement.
Key Takeaway
The 1–6 scale makes TOEFL iBT results more concise and easier to relate to CEFR. A simpler number, however, still needs to be understood in the context of university requirements and performance across all four skills. Set your target around the program you plan to enter, then use practice results to identify the sections that need further improvement.
Primary source: ETS — TOEFL Score Scale Update: A Guide for Institutions. Information may change; always confirm the latest requirements with ETS and your intended university.