The TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication) is one of the reference tests to properly showcase your level of English. It is a certification that provides a major advantage for entering a higher education school or applying for a job that requires the ability to communicate in English.

What score should you get to pass the TOEIC?

The TOEIC score is calculated on a total of 990 points, which is the sum of the scores from the Listening section (495 points) and the Reading section (495 points).

From what score can you justify a good level of English?
What score is needed to enter top schools?
What score to apply for a job?

Let’s look at all that in more detail.

What are the evaluation criteria for the TOEIC score?

The TOEIC is a certification that demonstrates a very specific level of English. The TOEIC score is important for enhancing your application for a job or entering a higher education institution.

What score should you get to pass the TOEIC?

The TOEIC certifies a level of English, which may be good, perfect, or imperfect. Depending on the score obtained, it will be necessary to work harder and better prepare for the test.

But if you are not taking this test to get into a prestigious school, then the score is not what matters most — what matters is the level of English you have in both sessions of the test, namely Listening and Reading.

Indeed, there is a section for oral comprehension, understanding spoken English for the candidate.

Then there is the second section, which corresponds to written comprehension: grammar, conjugation, vocabulary.

Each of these sessions includes 100 questions, for a test that lasts two hours in total.

You should know that in the TOEIC, wrong answers do not cost you points — what matters is answering all the questions!
It’s also important to prepare well before taking this certification.

To do that, several methods help you prepare: tutorials, mobile apps, websites — and recently, thanks to Red Swan Tutor, a fun approach through a pack of two interactive video games.

How is the TOEIC score calculated ?

The TOEIC is evaluated on a total of 990 points, with the Listening and Reading sessions each scored out of 495 points.

Worth noting : The TOEIC also offers variants for Speaking and Writing, each graded out of 400 points.

TOEIC tests are not pass/fail tests — each test has a minimum and maximum score.

On a European scale: the CEFR

The CEFR is the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
It’s an English level scale made up of 6 levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2.
The score obtained in the TOEIC thus finds an equivalence between A1 and C1, established as follows:

• A1 – Simple communication on familiar topics
• A2 – Simple communication and exchanges on familiar and routine topics
• B1 – Ability to express oneself in an authentic situation, able to describe a situation or event
• B2 – Fluent communication and argumentation on general, concrete, abstract topics
• C1 – Spontaneous expression on all subjects, in a clear and structured way
• C2 – Perfectly correct and precise expression on all topics

If you get less than 120 points, the level is too low and you’ll need to prepare and retake the test to obtain a CEFR equivalence.

Why aim for a B2 level in the TOEIC?

A TOEIC score between 785 and 944 points corresponds to a B2 level.

In this case, the candidate has a good level of English, can understand texts, and give depth to their writing.
This level is often required by higher education institutions and companies.

TOEIC Levels and CEFR Equivalence

So, what is a good TOEIC score?

The TOEIC test assesses your level of English in listening and reading.
As mentioned earlier, what matters is answering all the questions. Then, the score will depend on the reasons why you are preparing for and taking this certification.
If you want to apply for a specific job or enter a prestigious school, you’ll need a good TOEIC score.
So it all depends on your goals.

To obtain the TOEIC certification, you must achieve a minimum average score of 550.

To prepare well, explore the fun method proposed by Red Swan Tutor, and take time to try the demo of their interactive video games for the TOEIC.

Required score for higher education

If you're wondering what score is needed to pass the TOEIC, you must especially know what score higher education institutions require — if you want to enter a prestigious school or a major international company.

Most institutions use the TOEIC score and require a minimum of 785, equivalent to a B2 level.

This good score can even help validate a diploma (e.g., for engineering programs).
It is also useful if you want to go abroad during or after your studies.

Business schools generally require a minimum score around 850 points.

FAQ

What is a good TOEIC score to apply for a job?

• If English proficiency is essential for the job, aim for a TOEIC score of at least 900.
• A result over 900 is considered very good (B2+ level).

What is the maximum TOEIC score?

• The TOEIC is scored out of a total of 990 points.
• The test is divided into two sections, Listening and Reading, each graded out of 495 points.
• The total of both gives the final score out of 990.

What score is needed to enter a school with the TOEIC?

• There is no failing score, but some schools impose a minimum score.
• A score above 900 is a good result. We recommend a score of 940 (or more) to add real value to your application and stand out from other candidates.

How to interpret your TOEIC result?

• A B1 level corresponds to a TOEIC score of 550 to 784 points.
• Your intermediate level allows you to understand and express yourself in English in everyday situations.
• A B2 level corresponds to a high score, between 785 and 944 points.

Conclusion

The TOEIC score describes a level of understanding and expression in written and spoken English used in a professional context.

Obtaining this certification also depends on your future plans.

But more than a good score, it’s a solid general level of English that needs to be developed — and all of this can be prepared.

For a fun and more enjoyable TOEIC preparation, don’t hesitate to check out the two interactive video games offered by Red Swan Tutor.