TOEFL iBT 2026
Scoring Guide
The full TOEFL score range for 2026: the 1-6 band chart, how each band maps to CEFR levels and the legacy 0-120 scale, and how your performance translates to a score.
Understanding Band Scores
The 2026 TOEFL iBT replaces the legacy 0-120 total score with a 1-6 band scale reported in 0.5 increments, so the TOEFL score range now runs from band 1.0 to band 6.0. Each section (Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking) receives its own band score, and your overall band is derived from the average of all four. The band chart below maps every band to its CEFR level and the equivalent 0-120 score range, giving you the full TOEFL score chart in one place.
June 2026 update: calculator-first score check
Before you compare your score with a university cutoff, run the four section bands through the free TOEFL score calculator. The calculator exposes three issues that a simple conversion chart hides: whether your overall average rounds down, whether one section sits below a program minimum, and whether the legacy 0-120 estimate is only a range.
For the deeper scoring math, read the 1-6 scoring system explainer. For CEFR labels, use the band scores and CEFR guide. Sat the paper-based TOEFL ITP instead? Convert its three-section total to a CEFR level with the TOEFL ITP score calculator.
Complete command of English with full accuracy, fluency, and comprehension in all academic and professional contexts.
Near-native command with only occasional inaccuracies. Handles complex academic discourse with ease.
Strong command of English. Occasional errors do not impede communication in academic settings.
Good command for academic work. Can follow and produce complex texts with minor difficulties.
Effective command in familiar situations. Some errors in complex or unfamiliar academic contexts.
Adequate command for most academic tasks. Struggles with abstract and specialized content.
Functional command in routine situations. Noticeable errors and limited range in academic discourse.
Basic command sufficient for simple communication. Frequent errors and limited vocabulary in academic contexts.
Limited command of basic English. Communication restricted to very familiar, everyday topics.
Very limited command. Only able to convey and understand simple messages in familiar situations.
Minimal command of English. Only isolated words and memorized phrases used for basic needs.
CEFR Level Mapping
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is the international standard for describing language ability. The 2026 TOEFL band scores align directly with CEFR levels, making your results universally understood.
| Band Score | CEFR Level | Proficiency | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6.0 | C2 | Mastery | Can understand virtually everything heard or read. Effortless, precise, and nuanced expression. |
| 5.0 - 5.5 | C1 | Advanced | Can understand demanding texts and express ideas fluently. Strong academic and professional communication. |
| 4.0 - 4.5 | B2 | Upper Intermediate | Can interact with native speakers with reasonable fluency. Understands the main ideas of complex texts. |
| 3.0 - 3.5 | B1 | Intermediate | Can deal with most situations while traveling. Produces simple connected text on familiar topics. |
| 2.0 - 2.5 | A2 | Elementary | Can communicate in simple, routine tasks. Describes aspects of background and immediate environment. |
| 1.0 - 1.5 | A1 | Beginner | Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions. Basic interactions with slow, clear speech. |
Section Scoring Breakdown
Each of the four TOEFL sections is scored independently. Your raw score (number of correct answers or rubric assessment) converts to a scaled score (0-30), which then maps to a band score (1.0-6.0).
Reading
~25 minutesListening
~25 minutesWriting
~23 minutesSpeaking
~8 minutesLegacy Score Comparison
Transition Period (2026-2028): During this period, ETS reports both the legacy 0-120 total score and the new 1-6 band scale on your score report. After 2028, only the band scale will be used.
| Legacy Total (0-120) | New Band Score | CEFR | University Acceptance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 117 - 120 | 6.0 | C2 | Top-tier programs, scholarships |
| 100 - 116 | 5.0 - 5.5 | C1 | Most graduate programs |
| 72 - 99 | 4.0 - 4.5 | B2 | Many undergraduate programs |
| 42 - 71 | 3.0 - 3.5 | B1 | Conditional admission, pathway programs |
| 20 - 41 | 2.0 - 2.5 | A2 | Foundation/ESL programs required |
| 0 - 19 | 1.0 - 1.5 | A1 | Intensive English study recommended |
How Your Overall Band Is Calculated
Your overall TOEFL band score is determined by a simple process: the four section band scores are averaged, then the result is rounded to the nearest 0.5 increment.
Example Calculation
If average is 4.1 or 4.2
If average is 4.25 to 4.74
If average is 4.75 or above
Ready to See Your Score?
Enter four section bands, see your overall 1-6 score, and then use this guide to interpret the result.
Use Free Score Calculator