Top 10 TOEFL Accepted Universities in Germany: Scores, Fees & Deadlines

If you have a question, is TOEFL accepted in Germany? Yes, TOEFL is widely accepted in Germany. More than 300 leading German universities recognise TOEFL scores for admission to English-taught programs. The TOEFL iBT is particularly recommended for international students applying to German universities, with scores typically ranging from 72 to 100 depending on the institution and program level.

Read the blog to know more about TOEFL-accepting universities in Germany, along with the common questions answered.

Top 5 TOEFL-Accepted Universities in Germany: Overview

Why TOEFL for Germany?

Germany has emerged as one of Europe's top study destinations, attracting over 245,000 international students annually. With more than 1,500 English-taught programs available at German universities as of 2025, demonstrating English proficiency through the TOEFL has become essential for non-native English speakers.

Key advantages of TOEFL for Germany:

• ✅ Accepted by 100% of universities offering English-taught programs
• ✅ Computer-based format familiar to most students
• ✅ Available year-round with flexible test dates
• ✅ Scores recognised for admission, scholarships, and visa applications
• ✅ Home Edition option available for added convenience

Top TOEFL Accepted Universities in Germany: Detailed

Here are the leading German universities accepting TOEFL scores, along with their requirements:

1. Technical University of Munich (TUM)

TUM is Germany's top-ranked university and consistently ranks among the world's best technical universities. The institution requires a TOEFL score of 88 for most English-taught programs, with some specialised master's programs requiring a score of 95 or higher.

QS World Ranking 2025: #28
TOEFL Requirement: 88 iBT (minimum)
Popular Programs: Engineering, Computer Science, Natural Sciences, Management
Application Deadline: May 31 (Winter semester), November 30 (Summer semester)

2. Ludwig Maximilians University Munich (LMU)

LMU Munich accepts a minimum TOEFL score of 72 for undergraduate programs and 80 for most master's programs. The university offers over 100 English-taught degree programs.

QS World Ranking 2025: #54
TOEFL Requirement: 72-80 iBT
Popular Programs: Medicine, Life Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences
Application Deadline: July 15 (Winter semester)

3. Heidelberg University

Germany's oldest university accepts TOEFL scores for its numerous English-taught programs, particularly at the master's level. Minimum requirements vary by faculty.

QS World Ranking 2025: #87
TOEFL Requirement: 80-90 iBT
Popular Programs: Medicine, Life Sciences, Physics, Law
Application Deadline: May 31 (Winter semester)

4. Humboldt University of Berlin

Located in Germany's capital, Humboldt accepts TOEFL scores for its English-taught programs with a minimum requirement of 80 iBT.

QS World Ranking 2025: #120
TOEFL Requirement: 80 iBT minimum
Popular Programs: Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences
Application Deadline: May 31 (Winter semester)

5. RWTH Aachen University

One of Europe's leading technical universities, RWTH Aachen, requires a TOEFL score of 90 iBT for most English-taught master's programs.

QS World Ranking 2025: #106
TOEFL Requirement: 90 iBT
Popular Programs: Engineering, Technology, Natural Sciences
Application Deadline: March 1 (Winter semester)

6. Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin)

TU Berlin offers numerous English-taught programs and accepts TOEFL scores ranging from 79 to 92, depending on the program.

QS World Ranking 2025: #154
TOEFL Requirement: 79-92 iBT
Popular Programs: Engineering, Computer Science, Architecture
Application Deadline: May 31 (Winter semester)

7. University of Bonn

The University of Bonn accepts TOEFL scores for its English-taught programs with a minimum requirement of 80 iBT.

QS World Ranking 2025: #200
TOEFL Requirement: 80 iBT
Popular Programs: Mathematics, Economics, Agricultural Sciences
Application Deadline: July 15 (Winter semester)

8. University of Freiburg

Freiburg accepts TOEFL scores, with requirements varying by program, typically 79-100 iBT.

QS World Ranking 2025: #192
TOEFL Requirement: 79-100 iBT
Popular Programs: Medicine, Biology, Engineering
Application Deadline: May 31 (Winter semester)

9. University of Hamburg

The University of Hamburg accepts TOEFL scores for its English-taught programs, with minimum requirements typically at 80 iBT.

QS World Ranking 2025: #205
TOEFL Requirement: 80-90 iBT
Popular Programs: Law, Business, Natural Sciences
Application Deadline: July 15 (Winter semester)

Comprehensive List: TOEFL Requirements for German Universities

Understanding TOEFL Requirements for German Universities

Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's):

• Minimum TOEFL score: 72-80 iBT
• Corresponds to CEFR level: B2
• Some competitive programs may require 88+

Master's Programs:

• Minimum TOEFL score: 80-100 iBT
• Corresponds to CEFR level: B2-C1
• Top-tier universities often require 88-95+
• Specialised programs (Medicine, Law) may require 100+

Doctoral Programs (PhD):

• Minimum TOEFL score: 80-95 iBT
• Requirements vary significantly by research area
• Some programs accept lower scores with additional language support

Score Breakdown

Most German universities don't specify section-wise minimum scores, but aim for balanced scores across all four sections:

• Reading: 18-22
• Listening: 17-21
• Speaking: 18-23
• Writing: 18-22

Is the TOEFL Home Edition Accepted in Germany?

Yes, the TOEFL iBT Home Edition is widely accepted by German universities. The Home Edition is identical to the test centre version, and scores are treated equally.

Key Facts about TOEFL Home Edition:

✅ Same content, format, and scoring as the test centre TOEFL iBT

✅ Accepted by most German universities (always verify with the specific institution)

✅ Available 4 days a week (all days except Thursday and Friday)

✅ Taken from home with remote proctoring

✅ Results available in 6-10 days

✅ Costs the same as the test centre version ($223 USD)

Note: While most universities accept the Home Edition, some may have specific preferences. Always check the university's official admission requirements or contact their admissions office directly.

TOEFL vs. IELTS: Which is Better for Germany?

Both tests are widely accepted by German universities. Here's how they compare:

Recommendation: Choose based on:

• Your comfort with computer-based vs. paper tests
• Speaking preference (computer vs. human)
• Availability of test centres in your location
• Specific university requirements

How to Send TOEFL Scores to German Universities

Follow these steps to send your TOEFL scores to German universities:

During Registration (Free Score Reports)

When registering for TOEFL, you can select up to 4 institutions to receive your scores for free. These scores are automatically sent after your test.

Steps:

1. During registration, look for the "Score Recipients" section
2. Search for your university by name or location
3. Select the correct institution and department
4. Verify your selection before proceeding

After Taking the Test (Additional Score Reports)

If you need to send scores after your test or to more than 4 institutions:

1. Log in to your ETS account at ets.org/toefl
2. Navigate to "View Scores"
3. Click "Send Additional Score Reports"
4. Search for an institution by name or code
5. Select department (if applicable)
6. Pay fee: $25 USD per institution
7. Confirm submission

Delivery Time: Scores typically arrive within 7-10 days of your request.

Pro Tip: Note down university codes during your university research to speed up the score-sending process.

Exemptions: When You Don't Need TOEFL

You may not need TOEFL for German universities if:

1. Previous Education in English

If you completed your previous degree (Bachelor's or Master's) in an English-speaking country or at an English-medium institution, you could request an exemption.

Required Document: Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from your previous institution stating that the entire program was taught in English.

2. Native English Speaker

Students from English-speaking countries typically don't need TOEFL:

• USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, South Africa

3. Alternative Tests Accepted

Many universities accept other English proficiency tests:

• IELTS Academic: Most common alternative
• Cambridge English (C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency)
• PTE Academic
• Duolingo English Test (select universities)
• TOEIC (some institutions)

4. German-Taught Programs

If you're applying to programs taught entirely in German, you need German language proficiency (TestDaF, DSH, or Goethe Zertifikat) instead of TOEFL.

Admission Requirements Beyond TOEFL

For bachelor’s Programs

1. Academic Qualification:
• 12 years of schooling with a university entrance qualification
• Recognised high school diploma equivalent to German Abitur
• Some programs require specific subject combinations
2. English Proficiency:
• TOEFL: 72-88 iBT
• IELTS: 6.0-6.5
3. Additional Documents:
• Motivation letter
• CV/Resume
• Passport copy
• Academic transcripts
• Letter(s) of recommendation (for some programs)

For master’s Programs

1. Bachelor's Degree:
• A relevant bachelor's degree from a recognised institution
• Minimum GPA requirements (varies by university)
• Transcript of records
2. English Proficiency:
• TOEFL: 80-100 iBT
• IELTS: 6.5-7.0
3. Additional Requirements:
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• 2-3 Letters of Recommendation
• CV highlighting academic and professional experience
• GRE/GMAT (for some business/technical programs)
• Work experience (for MBA and executive programs)
• Portfolio (for creative programs)

Application Timeline

For Winter Semester (October Start)

For Summer Semester (April Start)

Important: Most English-taught programs have only a Winter semester intake (October). Summer intake options are limited.

Tips to Achieve Your Target TOEFL Score

1. Understand the Format

• Familiarise yourself with all four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing.
• Practice with official ETS materials
• Take full-length practice tests

2. Targeted Preparation (8-12 Weeks Recommended)

Week 1-2: Diagnostic test and skill assessment
Week 3-6: Section-specific practice
Week 7-8: Integrated skills practice
Week 9-10: Full-length mock tests
Week 11-12: Review weak areas and final preparation

3. Section-Specific Strategies

Reading:

• Build academic vocabulary
• Practice skimming and scanning techniques
• Time management: 18 minutes per passage

Listening:

• Take structured notes
• Focus on main ideas and details
• Practice with academic lectures and conversations

Speaking:

• Record yourself regularly
• Practice structured responses (15-45 seconds)
• Work on pronunciation and fluency

Writing:

• Master essay structure (introduction, body, conclusion)
• Practice integrated writing (read + listen + write)
• Aim for 300+ words in independent writing

4. Resources

• TOEFL iBT Free Practice Test (ETS official)
• The Official Guide to the TOEFL Test
• TOEFL GO! App

Cost of Studying in Germany

One major advantage of studying in Germany is the tuition-free or low-cost education at public universities.

Tuition Fees in Germany

Living Costs in Germany (Average)

Blocked Account Requirement: €11,904 for student visa (2025)

Scholarships for International Students

Common Questions Answered

Do European Universities Accept TOEFL?

Absolutely yes. TOEFL is accepted by universities across Europe, not just in Germany. Over 13,000 institutions in 160+ countries accept TOEFL scores.

TOEFL Acceptance Across Europe:

Student Visa Requirements

Documents required for Type D Student Visa

1. Valid passport (valid for at least 6 months)
2. University admission letter
3. TOEFL score report
4. Proof of financial resources (blocked account: €11,904)
5. Health insurance certificate
6. Accommodation proof
7. Motivation letter
8. Academic certificates
9. Visa application form
10. Passport photos

Processing Time: 6-12 weeks
Fee: €75

Pro Tip: Apply for your visa 2-3 months before your planned departure.

Conclusion

Germany offers exceptional opportunities for international students with its world-class education, affordable tuition (or free at public universities), and strong job market. With over 300 universities accepting TOEFL scores and 1,500+ English-taught programs available, proving your English proficiency through TOEFL opens doors to quality education in one of Europe's most dynamic countries. Explore all the TOEFL-accepted universities in Germany and choose the one that suits you the best.