TOEFL Score for Germany 2026: New Format Requirements

Germany has become one of the most popular study abroad destinations for Indian students — thanks to zero or near-zero tuition fees at public universities and world-class STEM programmes. But what TOEFL score do you need for Germany in 2026? With the new TOEFL format launched on January 21, 2026 and the 1-6 band scoring scale, German universities are now evaluating applications using the new bands alongside the old 0-120 equivalents during the transition period. This comprehensive guide from EEC's Germany education experts covers every university requirement, the TOEFL vs TestDaF debate, and how to leverage Germany's free tuition advantage with the right TOEFL score.

TOEFL Score Requirements for Germany 2026

Germany accepts TOEFL for English-taught programmes at virtually every major university. The good news is that German universities generally require lower TOEFL scores than their US or UK counterparts — most programmes require Band 4.0+ (old 80+), and only the most competitive programmes at TU Munich or Heidelberg push into Band 4.5-5.0 territory. The new TOEFL scoring system makes it easy to see where you stand. During the transition period (January 2026 — January 2028), your score report shows both the new 1-6 band and the old 0-120 equivalent, so German universities can evaluate using either scale.

German University TOEFL Band Requirements

German universities typically publish minimum TOEFL requirements in the old 0-120 scale. During the 2026-2028 transition period, they accept both scales. Here is how the most common German university requirement bands translate to the new scoring system. Most English-taught master's programmes require a minimum of Band 4.0 (old 80), with competitive programmes like TU Munich's Informatics or Heidelberg's Molecular Biology requiring Band 4.5+ (old 90+). See preparation strategies for reaching Band 4.0+.

A handful of German programmes also require section minimum scores. For example, a programme may require an overall Band 4.0 with no section below Band 3.5. This is particularly common for programmes with heavy writing components like business, humanities, and social sciences. Engineering and STEM programmes tend to be more flexible on individual section scores as long as the overall band is met. EEC's TOEFL coaching ensures balanced preparation across all four sections.

Popular German Universities & TOEFL Scores

TOEFL vs TestDaF for Germany: Which Should You Take?

If you are applying to an English-taught programme, TOEFL is the right choice — no German language is needed. If you are applying to a German-taught programme, you will need TestDaF or DSH (German language proficiency tests) instead of TOEFL. Some bilingual programmes accept either TOEFL or TestDaF. The choice depends entirely on the language of instruction of your programme. See also: TOEFL vs IELTS comparison.

English-Taught Programmes in Germany

Germany offers over 1,800 English-taught programmes at master's level and a growing number at bachelor's level. The most popular fields for Indian students include Computer Science, Data Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Business Administration, and Biotechnology. Programmes at TU Munich, RWTH Aachen, and TU Berlin are world-renowned in engineering and technology. For business, Mannheim, WHU, and ESMT Berlin rank among Europe's best. All of these accept the new TOEFL 1-6 band scoring.

At the bachelor's level, English-taught options are more limited but growing. Universities like Jacobs University Bremen, Constructor University, and several Hochschulen (universities of applied sciences) offer full bachelor's degrees in English. Requirements at bachelor's level tend to be slightly lower — Band 3.5-4.0 (old 72-85). Many German universities also accept IELTS as an alternative to TOEFL — check each programme's requirements to decide which test suits your strengths best. See EEC's full list of Germany programmes.

Free Tuition: The Germany Advantage for Indian Students

Germany's most compelling advantage is tuition-free education at public universities. Unlike the USA (where tuition ranges from $20,000-$60,000/year) or the UK ($15,000-$40,000/year), most German public universities charge only a semester contribution of €150-350 per semester. This covers student services, public transport passes, and administrative fees — but no tuition. Your total cost for a 2-year master's degree is roughly €600-1,400 in fees, plus living expenses of about €10,000-12,000/year. Compare with USA costs.

To fund living expenses, you need a blocked account showing approximately €11,904/year (the 2026 requirement). This is not a fee — it is your own money that you draw monthly (€992/month) to cover rent, food, insurance, and daily expenses. EEC's Germany team helps you set up the blocked account and plan your finances.

“Germany is the smartest financial choice for Indian students with strong academics and a Band 4.0+ TOEFL score. Zero tuition, world-class engineering, and an 18-month post-study work visa — it's hard to beat.”

— Ankit Mehta, Senior Germany Counsellor, EEC

EEC's Germany Study Services

EEC offers a complete Germany study package: TOEFL coaching (₹7,500 for the new format) + university shortlisting + SOP guidance + blocked account support + visa documentation + pre-departure orientation. With 26 centres across Gujarat, 27+ years of experience, and 50,000+ students placed worldwide, EEC is your trusted partner for studying in Germany. Whether you are targeting TU Munich's elite programmes or applied sciences universities, our multi-country counsellors ensure you make the right choice.

EEC also offers German language courses — from A1 to B2 level — which complement your TOEFL preparation. Even if your programme is in English, basic German helps with daily life, part-time jobs, and post-graduation employment. Many EEC students take TOEFL + German A1/A2 simultaneously for maximum advantage. Book a free Germany consultation today.

EEC offers three modes of TOEFL preparation — Classroom (at 26 centres across Gujarat), Online Live (interactive Zoom sessions with expert trainers), and Pre-recorded (self-paced video course with 1-year access) — all at ₹7,500 all-inclusive. Start preparing for your target German university score today.

Frequently Asked Questions