The 1–6 score scale explained
How the 1–6 score scale works, how it relates to CEFR levels, and why practice estimates are only a guide.
In this lesson you will
- Understand the 1–6 section and overall scores
- Relate scores roughly to CEFR levels
- Know the limits of practice estimates
Learn
From 2026 TOEFL iBT reports each section and the overall result on a 1–6 scale in half-point steps, designed to align with the CEFR levels (A1–C2). For a transition period, scores on the older 0–120 scale are also reported.
Roughly, higher numbers correspond to higher CEFR levels — for example, around 4 is often linked with B2 and around 5 with C1. Check the official ETS score information for the exact alignment, as it is published and updated by ETS.
Universities set their own requirements, often including minimum section scores. Always check the requirement for your programme.
KitWren practice scores are educational estimates from short practice sets. They are not official TOEFL scores and can differ from your real result.
Examples
- A university may ask for an overall 4.5 with no section below 4.
- Your practice estimate: 4.0 / 6 — a guide to where you are now.
- Transition period: some reports also show a 0–120 score.
Vocabulary
scale
a range of numbers used to measure something
requirement
something that is needed
align
match or correspond to
estimate
a rough calculation
transition
a change from one system to another
Practice
The 2026 TOEFL uses a scale of…
Lesson quiz
The new scale is designed to align with CEFR levels.
Review
Key points
- 1–6 scale in half points, aligned with CEFR.
- Universities set requirements.
- Practice results are estimates only.
What you learned
- ✓ I understand TOEFL scores.
- ✓ I know how to check requirements.
- ✓ I know what practice estimates mean.