The TOEFL cut-off for German universities usually falls between 80 and 100. TOEFL is not required by every university in Germany, as many programs are taught in German. But having a higher score can make your application stronger. In general, 80 is the minimum, and 90 or above is considered a safe score for admission.
Top German universities such as Technical University of Munich (TUM), LMU Munich, University of Tuebingen, and RWTH Aachen accept TOEFL scores. However, each program may have its own score requirement. For example, TUM, ranked 1st in Germany and 37th in the world (QS Rankings 2026), requires a TOEFL score of 88. RWTH Aachen usually asks for 90 or higher.
Master’s programs often require higher TOEFL scores than Bachelor’s programs at the same university. On average, German universities expect around 90 on the TOEFL. Remember, your TOEFL score is only one part of the application. Your grades, letters of recommendation, and statement of purpose are also very important.
TOEFL Cutoff for German Universities
According to US News, Germany ranked 4th in education that makes candidates opt for Germany even more. LMU, Technical University of Munich, Heidelberg University are a few of the top universities that candidates should aim for. TOEFL cutoff for German universities shows the range of scores that candidates should achieve to ensure admission:
| Top German Universities | TOEFL Cutoff for German Universities |
|---|---|
| LMU Munich | 80 |
| Technical University of Munich | 88 |
| Heidelberg University | 90 |
| University of Tuebingen | 79 or more |
| Humboldt University of Berlin | 79 |
| RWTH Aachen | 90 |
| University of Freiburg | 100 or more |
| University of Bonn | 80 |
TOEFL Germany Cutoff for MS Courses (2026)
MS in Germany attracts over millions of students per year. To study in Germany for MS is usually a one to two-year degree (2-4 semesters). There is no tuition fee for pursuing masters in Germany, as most of the German Universities are state-funded. A few of the top universities are listed below:
Technical University of Munich
TU Munich is ranked 1st in Germany and 22nd globally (QS World University 2026 ranking). TU Munich is one of the most research-focused universities in Germany and Europe. In terms of research output, TMU ranks 4th in all of Europe as the most innovative university.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Popular Courses | TU Munich ranks equally high in natural science and engineering. So, physics, astronomy, computer-science, mechanical engineering are popular courses here. |
| Admission Requirement | 1.GPA above 9.4 in undergraduate program 2.TOEFL Cut off-100 |
| Fees | University fees: 129.49 Euros (INR 10,600) |
| Cost of Living | Average cost of living in Germany including accommodation, food, and health insurance costs 1000 euro (INR 85,00) per month |
LMU Munich
LMU Munich is the largest university in Germany. There are approximately 44,000 students enrolled in various courses. Historically, LMU is one of the most successful universities in the world with 42 Nobel laureates affiliated to it, which includes stalwarts like Max Planck, William Rontgen and Werner Heisenberg. LMU ranks 2nd in Germany and 58th in the world.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Popular Courses | LMU Munich offers medicine, natural-science, physcology, and business-management courses. |
| Admission Requirement | 1.GPA above 9.2 in undergraduate program 2.TOEFL Cut off-100 |
| Fees | University fees 129.40 Euros (INR 10,600) |
| Cost of Living | Average cost per person including accommodation, food, and health insurance costs 1000 euro (INR 85,00) per month |
Heidelberg University
Heidelberg University is Germany's 2nd largest university by size, with 32,000 students enrolled here. It is home to a rich academic background and boasts 56 Nobel laureates affiliation, the most of any German educational institution. Heidelberg university ranks 80 globally.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Popular Courses | Heidelberg University includes popular courses in natural sciences, medicine and sociology. |
| Admission Requirement | 1.GPA above 9.2 in undergraduate program 2.TOEFL Cut off-100 |
| Fees | University fees- 154.70 Euros (INR 12,700) |
| Cost of Living | Average cost per person including accommodation, food, and health insurance costs 850 euro (INR 70,00) per month |
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
KIT is one of the largest German universities. It is ranked 6th in Europe in terms of citation impact of published research. It is home to many well-known inventors and entrepreneurs such as Heinrich Hertz and Karl Friedrich Benz.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Popular Courses | KIT includes courses in natural sciences, electronics and computer and energy engineering and management. |
| Admission Requirement | 1.GPA above 9.2 in undergraduate program 2.TOEFL Cut off-100 |
| Fees | Tuition fees-1653 Euros (INR 1,35,000) Student fees- 153 Euros (INR 12,00) |
| Cost of Living | Average cost per person including accommodation, food, and health insurance costs 650 euro(INR 54,00) per month |
RWTH Aachen
RWTH Aachen University ranks 31st among the best engineering colleges in the world (12th in Mechanical engineering). Apart from Mechanical, RWTH has one of the best faculties in Germany in chemical and electrical engineering.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Popular Courses | RWTH Aachen University offers electrical, mechanical and chemical engineering and business management. |
| Admission Requirement | 1.GPA above 9.2 in undergraduate program 2.TOEFL Cut off-80 |
| Fees | No tuition fees for international students. |
| Cost of Living | Average cost per person including accommodation, food, and health insurance costs 800 Euros (INR 65,00) per month |
The competitiveness depends on the university, program, and profile. Top German universities with limited seats will be more competitive. The minimum TOEFL score varies depending on the university and program. Generally, top universities have a higher cut-off, ranging from 80-100. The average minimum score falls between 75-80.
FAQs
Ques: Is TOEFL required for all German Universities?
Ans: TOEFL is not mandatory for all universities in Germany. Many universities offering English-language programs will require proof of English proficiency.
Ques: What is the minimum TOEFL score for German Universities?
Ans: The minimum TOEFL score varies depending on the university and program. Generally, top universities have a higher cut-off, ranging from 80-100. The average minimum score falls between 75-80.
Ques: What is a good TOEFL score for German Universities?
Ans: A score of 90 and above is considered very competitive for admission to top German universities.
Ques: Are there alternative tests to TOEFL accepted in Germany?
Ans: Germany accepts other TOEFL alternative English language proficiency tests like IELTS and PTE Academic.
Ques: Where can I find the exact TOEFL cut-off score for a specific program?
Ans: The best way to find the exact TOEFL cut-off score for German universities is to check the university's website.
Ques: Do all programs within a university have the same TOEFL requirement?
Ans: Master's programs in German Universities might have a higher cut-off score compared to Bachelor's programs within the same university.
Ques: Does a high TOEFL score guarantee admission?
Ans: A high TOEFL score is just one factor considered during the application process. Academic grades, letters of recommendation, and your statement of purpose also play a significant role in your admission process.
Ques: What if my TOEFL score doesn't meet the cut-off?
Ans: If your achieved score does not meet the cutoff requirements for your targeted German university, you can consider retaking the test with good preparation.
Ques: When should I take the TOEFL for admission to German universities?
Ans: It's recommended to take TOEFL well in advance of the application deadline to allow time for retakes if needed. Check the official websites of German universities for the deadlines.
Ques: How long is a TOEFL score valid for German universities?
Ans: TOEFL score is valid for 2 years, and you need to send your scores to the universities within this valid time frame.
Ques: Can I improve my TOEFL score?
Ans: Many resources are available online and offline to help you improve your English skills and prepare for TOEFL. You can consider ETS official website for prep resources.
Ques: How competitive are German universities for international students?
Ans: The competitiveness depends on the university, program, and profile. Top German universities with limited seats will be more competitive.
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
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