US universities accepting a TOEFL score of 65 in 2026 include several public universities, regional institutions, and pathway-based programs that offer admission opportunities to international students with moderate English proficiency scores. While top US universities generally require TOEFL iBT scores of 80-100 or higher, many universities in the USA still consider applicants with scores between 60 and 70, especially for undergraduate programs, conditional admission, or English-language pathway courses.
Students applying with a TOEFL score of 65 should carefully check minimum overall and sectional score requirements, as these vary by university and program. Universities may additionally evaluate academic performance, SOPs, and English-medium education background during admissions.
US Universities Accepting TOEFL Scores of 65 or Below
Check out some of the universities in the US that are accepting TOEFL scores of 65 in 2026:
| University | Program Level | Minimum TOEFL iBT Score Required |
|---|---|---|
| Huston-Tillotson University | Undergraduate | 65 |
| Northeastern Junior College | Undergraduate (Full Admittance) | 65 |
| Sweet Briar College | Undergraduate | 65 |
| Fontbonne University | Undergraduate | 65 |
| Cumberland University | Graduate | 65 |
| Dunwoody College of Technology | Undergraduate | 65 (with sub-scores: Writing 20, Speaking 20) |
| Siena University | Undergraduate | 65 (score of 79+ waives English assessment on arrival) |
| Indiana University | Graduate (Diploma Programs only) | 65 |
Universities Accepting TOEFL 65 for Conditional and Pathway Admission
Check out the table below for US universities that accept TOEFL scores of 65 with conditional admissions:
| University | Program Level | Minimum TOEFL iBT Score Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Delaware | Undergraduate | 65–78 | Academic Transitions Pathway (conditional); Direct admission requires 79+ |
| Bluffton University | Undergraduate | 60–65 | Minimum range for admission consideration |
Important Notes:
- TOEFL scoring changed on January 21, 2026. The new scale is 1-6 (not 0–120). Universities are in transition, and both scores are accepted for a 2-year period (upto January 2028).
- Always verify directly with the university's admissions office, as requirements can change each cycle.
- Some universities (like Siena) accept a score of 65 but require an English assessment on arrival if the score is below 79.
- Indiana University's TOEFL 65 applies only to Diploma Programs in Music — not master's or doctoral programs.
A TOEFL score of 65 can still provide access to several US universities in 2026, mainly through undergraduate, diploma, conditional, or pathway admission options. However, applicants should review updated TOEFL score conversion policies, section-wise requirements, and program-specific eligibility carefully, as many universities are transitioning to the new TOEFL scoring scale introduced in 2026.
FAQs
Ques. Can Indian students get a US student visa with a TOEFL score of 65?
Ans. Yes. A TOEFL score does not directly affect US visa approval. Visa officers mainly check the university admission letter, financial proof, academic background, and whether the student can explain their study plans clearly during the interview.
Ques. Do US universities accept Duolingo instead of TOEFL for students scoring below 70?
Ans. Many US universities now accept the Duolingo English Test (DET) as an alternative to TOEFL or IELTS. Indian students with a low TOEFL score often apply with DET because it is shorter, cheaper, and accepted by several public universities.
Ques. Can students with a TOEFL score of 65 receive scholarships in the USA?
Ans. Some universities offer merit-based scholarships even with a TOEFL score of 65, especially for undergraduate programs. However, competitive scholarships usually prefer stronger English proficiency scores and higher academic grades.
Ques. Are pathway and conditional admission programs common for Indian students?
Ans. Yes. Many Indian students use pathway or conditional admission programs to improve academic English before starting full-degree coursework. These programs are common at public universities and help students transition into regular classes.
Ques. Do universities consider Class 12 English scores instead of TOEFL?
Ans. Some US universities waive TOEFL requirements if Indian students studied in English-medium schools and scored well in Class 12 English. Policies vary by university, so students should confirm waiver eligibility directly with admissions offices.
Ques. Is a TOEFL score of 65 enough for STEM courses in the USA?
Ans. It may be accepted for selected STEM programs at smaller or regional universities, but competitive engineering and computer science programs often expect TOEFL scores above 75–80, especially for graduate admissions.
Ques. What problems do Indian students commonly face after getting conditional admission?
Ans. Students on Reddit and Quora often mention extra tuition costs, longer study duration, and mandatory English classes before degree courses begin. Some also advise checking whether pathway credits transfer fully into the main program.
Ques. Can students retake only one TOEFL section in 2026?
Ans. ETS has introduced more flexible testing updates in recent years, but section retake policies depend on the latest TOEFL format changes implemented in 2026. Students should check the official ETS guidelines before booking a retest.
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
Comments