Program-level details
Michigan State University (MSU) is a public research university in East Lansing, Michigan, United States. For 2026 entry it publishes a minimum TOEFL iBT of 79 for undergraduate admission, which maps to band 3.5 (CEFR B1) on the new 1.0-6.0 scale, and 80 for most graduate programs, which maps to band 4.0 (CEFR B2). Admitted international applicants are usually competitive from around band 4 upward, so treat the published minimum as a floor rather than a target.
Michigan State requires a minimum TOEFL iBT of 79 for regular undergraduate admission; provisional admission is available at 60 to 78 with required English coursework. Graduate admission requires 80 with subscore minimums of 19 in Reading, 19 in Listening, 19 in Speaking, and 22 in Writing. Provisional graduate admission is possible at 70. Some graduate programmes such as UX Design (MS) require 85 or above.
Translating this score to the 2026 1-6 band scale
From January 2026, ETS reports the TOEFL iBT on a 1.0-6.0 band scale (in 0.5 increments) rather than the legacy 0-120 scale. Michigan State University (MSU)'s undergraduate minimum of 79 corresponds to roughly band 3.5, which aligns with CEFR B1. The graduate minimum of 80 corresponds to band 4.0 (B2). For a more precise read on what these bands mean for your speaking, writing, listening, and reading, take a free TOEFLMock practice test — you'll see your score reported on both scales side-by-side.
Other accepted English tests
Michigan State University (MSU) typically accepts: IELTS 6.5, Duolingo English Test, PTE Academic. Many universities accept the Duolingo English Test, and some accept Cambridge English Advanced (C1) or Proficiency (C2). Acceptance and minimum thresholds for alternative tests change frequently — verify against the current admissions page before relying on a specific alternative.
How to prepare for the Michigan State University (MSU) TOEFL minimum
A target of 79 on the TOEFL iBT is a band 3.5 performance. Realistically, this means consistently scoring well across all four sections, since universities almost always set sub-section minimums (typically 22 in each of Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing for top-tier programs). The fastest way to spot which section is holding you back is to take a full-length practice test under timed conditions and compare your section bands. From there, focused section practice is more productive than another full-length attempt.
- Take a free full-length TOEFL practice test to see your starting band
- Reading practice — 16 free 2026-format reading tests
- Listening practice — 16 free 2026-format listening tests with the new task types
- Writing practice — 16 free Build-a-Sentence + Email + Academic Discussion tests
- Speaking practice — 16 free Listen-and-Repeat + video Interview tests
Common questions
What is the minimum TOEFL score for Michigan State University (MSU)? ▾
Michigan State University (MSU) requires a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 79 for undergraduate admission and 80 for most graduate programs. Michigan State requires a minimum TOEFL iBT of 79 for regular undergraduate admission; provisional admission is available at 60 to 78 with required English coursework. Graduate admission requires 80 with subscore minimums of 19 in Reading, 19 in Listening, 19 in Speaking, and 22 in Writing. Provisional graduate admission is possible at 70. Some graduate programmes such as UX Design (MS) require 85 or above.
What if my TOEFL score is below the Michigan State University (MSU) minimum? ▾
If you score below the Michigan State University (MSU) minimum, options include retaking the TOEFL after focused practice, taking an alternative accepted test (IELTS 6.5, Duolingo English Test, PTE Academic), or applying to a pre-sessional English program offered by the university.
Does Michigan State University (MSU) accept the Duolingo English Test? ▾
Many universities now accept the Duolingo English Test as an alternative to TOEFL. Whether Michigan State University (MSU) accepts it depends on the program and the year — verify against the official admissions page linked above.
How do I send my TOEFL scores to Michigan State University (MSU)? ▾
Official TOEFL scores are sent directly from ETS to the university you specify. You can list up to four institutions to receive your scores at no extra cost when you register for the test. Additional score reports cost a fee per institution.
Verify before applying
University admission requirements change. Always confirm the current TOEFL minimum on the official Michigan State University (MSU) admissions page before applying. The figures on this page were last verified 2026-06-16 and reflect publicly stated institutional minimums; specific programs may set higher thresholds, and some courses (medicine, law, education) frequently do.