What is a good TOEFL score?

Is 70 a Good TOEFL Score? What You Need to Know About a Good TOEFL Score in 2025

Key Takeaways

• A 70 TOEFL score is below average for most competitive universities.

• Some community colleges and vocational programs accept TOEFL scores around 60–70.

• A good TOEFL score depends on the institution and the program you're applying to.

• A TOEFL score of 90+ is usually required for top universities in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.

• Top Marks Prep helps students build the speaking and writing skills needed for a high TOEFL score.

What Is Considered a Good TOEFL Score?

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a standardized test used by universities and institutions to evaluate the English proficiency of non-native speakers. The test is scored out of 120, with four sections—Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing—each worth 30 points.

So, what is a good TOEFL score?

• 90–100+: Competitive for most top-tier universities (Ivy League, top UK/Canadian schools).

• 80–89: Adequate for many public universities and undergraduate programs.

• 70–79: Acceptable at some community colleges, online programs, or pathway programs.

• Below 70: May limit your academic options unless you're applying to very specific institutions.

Is 70 a Good TOEFL Score?

A TOEFL score of 70 can be considered a starting point, but it’s generally not strong enough for most 4-year universities in the U.S., U.K., or Canada. It falls below the average TOEFL score (which is usually around 85–90) and may not meet minimum admission requirements.

However, a score of 70 might still be:

• Good for community colleges or associate degree programs

• Acceptable for conditional admission (some schools accept lower TOEFL scores if you take additional ESL courses)

• A solid base to improve if you're retaking the TOEFL soon

If you're aiming for a better TOEFL score, you'll want to improve your speaking and writing sections, which are often the lowest-scoring for students.

How to Improve a 70 TOEFL Score

Raising your TOEFL score from 70 to 90+ can significantly expand your academic opportunities. Here are some quick tips:

1. Practice TOEFL-style speaking responses with feedback (Top Marks Prep specializes in this!)

2. Review model TOEFL essays and grammar rules

3. Build your vocabulary with academic reading

4. Time yourself with TOEFL practice tests

5. Focus on weak sections—even improving one section can raise your total score

TOEFL Score Requirements by University Type

Always check the TOEFL score requirements on the school's official website.

FAQ – TOEFL Scores & Top Marks Prep

Q: Is 70 a good TOEFL score for a U.S. university?
A: It may be acceptable for community colleges or specific programs, but most universities require 80–100+.

Q: Can I get into a master's program with a 70 TOEFL score?
A: Most graduate programs require at least a 90. A 70 would likely be too low unless you're offered conditional admission.

Q: How can Top Marks Prep help me improve my TOEFL score?
A: We offer personalized feedback on speaking and writing, model answers, grammar workshops, and free practice resources—all focused on helping you reach your target TOEFL score.

Q: How fast can I improve from a 70 TOEFL score?
A: Many students see significant improvement within 4–6 weeks of focused practice with Top Marks Prep.

Q: Does Top Marks Prep offer free resources for TOEFL prep?
A: Yes! We offer free videos, sample responses, and speaking templates on YouTube and our website to help you raise your score quickly.