IELTS Score for USA: Average IELTS Scores at the Best Universities in US

Q: What is IELTS exam all about?

Conducted by IDP, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the world’s most popular English language proficiency tests for candidates looking to pursue higher education abroad and global migration. The IELTS exam is available in two formats. The IELTS Academic and the IELTS General. The IELTS Academic test is designed for candidates looking to pursue higher education across universities and colleges abroad. The IELTS General Test is for candidates who are looking to migrate to an English-speaking country such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the UK among others. The IELTS exam evaluates the English speaking, writing, listening and reading skills of the candidate. Your total IELTS score will be a combination of the band scores from the four sections. You will receive IELTS scores based on each of the four skills on a band of 1 – 9, and you will also be awarded an overall band score. You can score whole (example 5.0, 6.0, 7.0) or half (example 5.5, 6.5, 7.5) bands in each part of the test.

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Raushan Kumar

Assistant Manager Content

Updated on Oct 9, 2024 12:46 IST

The average IELTS scores required at top US universities range from 6.5 to 7.5. Top US universites like Harvard and Stanford typically expect higher band scores (around 7.0–7.5), while others accept a minimum of 6.5. Achieving higher IELTS scores will surely increase your admission chances.

Students going to the US are confused because of the IELTS vs TOEFL debate. It is well known that American universities prefer TOEFL scores for international students, as it is more about testing American English. However, this is just a myth as almost all American universities accept IELTS scores as well. Every university has different IELTS band score average and we present you with an exhaustive list of average IELTS average scores at American universities. The list given below provides IELTS Score for USA universities. To bust the myth again, there are IELTS accepting universities in USA.

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Note: Tier 1 colleges are not included in this list, but for your reference, the average IELTS scores at the top universities in the US is either 7 or 7.5

Study Visa for the US

There are three types of US Student Visa:

F Visa: It is for students who wish to attend a university/ college, high school, private elementary school, seminary, conservatory, and another academic institution, including a language training program
M Visa: It is for students who wish to attend vocational or other recognized nonacademic institution, other than a language training program
J Visa: It is for students, visiting scholars, or lecturers pursuing an exchange program

IELTS Requirement for USA Universites

University	Average Scores Accepted	Special Requirements
Abilene Christian University	6
Arkansas State University	5.5	College of Business: 6
Art Institute of Philadelphia	6.5
Assumption College	6	Master of Business Administration: 6
Avila University	6.5
Bay Path College	6
Ball State University	6.5
Binghamton University, State University of New York	6.5
Bellarmine University	6	W. Fielding Rubel School of Business: 6 Post-Baccalaureate: 6
Benedictine College	6.5
Boise State University	6.5
Buffalo State College, State University of New York (SUNY)	6
Butler University	6
California Institute of Integral Studies	6
California State University, Fullerton	6.5
California State University, Los Angeles	6
California University of Pennsylvania	5.5
Cambridge College	5.5
Campbellsville University	5
Carroll University	6
Catholic Distance University	6.5
Chadron State College	6.5
Cleveland State University	6
California State University, Fresno	6.5
California State University, Fullerton	6.5
California State University, Long Beach	6
Case Western Reserve University	7
Clark University	6.5
Clarkson University	6.5
SUNY Brockport	6.5
College of Saint Rose	6
College of Staten Island, City University of New York (CUNY)	6.5	Business Management: 7 Mental Health Counseling: 7
Colorado Technical University	6.5
Concordia College, Minnesota	5.5
Concordia University, Texas	6.5
Crown College	5
Dallas Baptist University	6
Drexel University	7
DigiPen Institute of Technology	6.5
Dominican University of California	7
Drake University	6.5
Drury University	5.5
D'Youville College	6
East Carolina University	6.5
East Stroudsburg University	6
Eastern New Mexico University	6.5
Eastern Oregon University	6
Edgewood College	6
Elon University	6.5
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Arizona	6
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Florida	6
Fairleigh Dickinson University	6
Florida Gulf Coast University	6.5
Florida Institute of Technology	6
Faulkner University	5
Ferris State University	6.5
Florida Atlantic University	6.5
Florida Southern College	6.5
Friends University	5.5
Gannon University	6.5
Grand Valley State University	6.5
George Mason University	6.5
George Washington University	7
Georgia Southern University	6
Goldey-Beacom College	6.5
Henderson State University	6	School of Business: 6
High Point University	6.5
Indiana University of Pennsylvania	6
Illinois Institute of Technology	6.5
Illinois State University	6.5
Indiana University, Southeast	6
Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis	6.5	Kelley School of Business: 7 School of Dentistry: 6.5
Ithaca College	6
Kansas State University, Manhattan	6.5
Kansas Wesleyan University	6.5
Kaplan University	6
Keiser University, Daytona Beach	6
Kennesaw State University	6.5
Kent State University	6	College of Business Administration: 6 Department of Geology: 6 Master of Science in Chemistry: 6
Lesley University	6.5
LeTourneau University	6
Lewis University	6
Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus	6.5
MacMurray College	6.5
Manhattanville College	6.5
Marquette University	6
Michigan State University	6.5
Michigan Technological University	6.5
Marylhurst University	6.5
Maryville University	6
Marywood University	6	Biotechnology: 6 Business & Managerial Science: 6 Communication Arts: 6 Health Sciences: 6 Nutrition: 6 Psychology: 6
McDaniel College	6
McNeese State University	6
Mercy College	6.5
Miami International University of Art and Design	6.5
Middle Tennessee State University	6
Millersville University of Pennsylvania	6.5
Minot State University	6	College of Business: 6
Mississippi College	6
Mississippi University for Women	6	Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology: 7
Missouri State University, Springfield	6
Monmouth University	6
Montana State University, Billings	6.5
Murray State University	6.5
National American University, Albuquerque	6.5
National American University, Allen	6.5
National University	5.5
North Carolina State University	6.5
New Mexico State University	6.5
New York Institute of Technology, Central Islip	6	Computer Science PhD: 6.5
New York Institute of Technology, Manhattan	6	School of Management Master of Business Administration: 6
New York Institute of Technology, Old Westbury	6
Northwest Baptist Seminary	7.5
San Francisco Bay University	6
Notre Dame College	6
Notre Dame de Namur University	6
Nova Southeastern University	6	H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business and Entrepreneurship: 6
Oklahoma City University	6.5
Oklahoma State University	6.5
Oregon Institute of Technology	6
Oregon State University	6.5
University of the Pacific	6.5
Pennsylvania State University	6.5
Pepperdine University	6.5
Purdue University	6.5
Purdue University, Hammond	6
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts	6.5
Point Loma Nazarene University	6.5
Point Park University	6
Robert Morris University	6.5	School of Engineering, Mathematics and Science: 6.5 School of Business: 6.5 School of Nursing, Education and Human Studies: 7 School of Informatics, Humanities and Social Sciences: 7
Rockford College	6
Rochester Institute of Technology	7.5
Roosevelt University	6.5
Roger Williams University	6.5
Rowan University, Camden	6
Rowan University, Glassboro	6
Saginaw Valley State University	6.5
Saint Michael's College	6.5
Saint Peter's University	6.5
Salem State College	6.5
Southeastern Oklahoma State University	6.5
Schiller International University, Florida	6.5
Siena Heights University	6.5
Silicon Valley University	7
SIT Graduate Institute	7
Southeast Missouri State University	6
Saint Joseph’s University	6.5
Sam Houston University	6.5
San Diego State University	6.5
Southern Illinois University, Carbondale	6.5
Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville	6.5
Southern Methodist University	6.5
State University of New York (SUNY) Upstate Medical University	6.5
SUNY, Stonybrook	6.5
Southeastern Louisiana University	6
Southern Oregon University	6
St. Ambrose University	6.5
State University of New York (SUNY) Maritime College	6.5
Texas Christian University	6.5
Texas Woman’s University	6.5
Tulane University	6.5
Texas A&M University, College Station	6	Mays Business School: 6 Health Science Center: 6
Texas A&M University, Kingsville	6
Texas State University	6.5
Texas Tech University	6.5
Tiffin University	6
Troy University	6.5
Truman State University	6
Union Graduate College	7
Union College	7
University of Advancing Technology	6.5
University of North Carolina, Wilmington	6
University of North Florida	6.5
University of North Texas	6
University of Oklahoma	6
University of Pittsburgh at Bradford	6
University of Central Missouri	6
University of Charleston	6
University of Colorado, Boulder	6.5
University of Colorado, Colorado Springs	6.5
University of Evansville	5.5
University of Florida	6.5	Hough Graduate School of Business, Warrington College of Business Administration: 6
University of Hawaii, Hilo	5.5	Graduate assistantship: 7
University of Pittsburgh	7
University of Portland	6.5
University of Rhode Island	6.5
University of South Florida	6.5
University of Southern Mississippi	6
University of St. Thomas	6.5
University of Tampa	6.5
University of Tennessee	6.5
University of Houston, Clear Lake	6.5
University of Idaho	6.5
University of La Verne	6.5
University of Maine, Orono	6.5
University of Massachusetts, Boston	6
University of Arizona	6.5
University of Arkansas	6.5
University of Bridgeport	6.5
University of Maryland University College	7
University of Massachusetts Amherst	6.5
University of Michigan	6.5
University of Minnesota	6.5
University of Memphis	6
University of New Haven	7.5
University of North Alabama	6
University of Northern Virginia	6.5
University of South Dakota	6	School of Business: 6
University of Alaska, Fairbanks	6
University of Southern Indiana	6
University of Tennessee, Chattanooga	6.5
University of Texas, el paso	6.5
University of the Cumberlands	6
University of Alabama	6
University of Dayton	6
University of New Orleans	6.5
University of Texas of the Permian Basin	6
University of Texas, Dallas	6.5
University of Vermont	6.5
University of the West	6.5
University of Toledo	6.5
University of Tulsa	6.5
University of Utah	6.5
University of Wisconsin, La Crosse	6.5
University of Wisconsin, Parkside	6.5
University of Wyoming	6.5
Upper Iowa University	7	Master of Business Administration: 6 Master of Higher Education Administration: 6 Master Public Administration: 6
Utah State University	6
Valparaiso University	6
Virginia International University	7
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University	6.5	College of Natural Resources: Geospatial and Environmental Analysis Doctoral Program: 6 Department of Economics (Ph.D. program): 6 Master of Education: 7 MS in Biomedical Technology Development and Management: 7 Department of English: 8
West Chester University of Pennsylvania	6
West Texas A&M University	6.5
Western Connecticut State University	6
Western Kentucky University	6.5	Gordon Ford College of Business, Master of Business Administration: 6
Western Oregon University	5
Westminster College, Utah	6.5	Master of Arts in Community Leadership: 7 Master of Arts in Teaching: 7
Worcester Polytechnic Institute	7
Wayne State University	6.5
Wilkes University	6
Wright State University	7.5
York College of Pennsylvania	6.5	Master of Business Administration: 6

IELTS Score for USA FAQs

Q. Is IELTS accepted in USA?

A. Yes. Even though TOEFL has more popularity in the US, IELTS is also accepted.

Q. What is the minimum IELTS score for USA?

A. Minimum IELTS score for USA depends on the university requirements. Tier 1 colleges and universities usually require a score of 7 and above.

Q. Which is more popular in the US, IELTS or TOEFL?

A. Both the exams are accepted in the US. However, TOEFL is more popular with aspirants who wish to study in the US.

Q. Which is tougher, IELTS or TOEFL?

A. Neither of these exams is tough, neither of these exams is easy. Your success in any exam depends on your hard work and meticulous preparation.

Q. What are the IELTS accepting universities in USA?

A. There are many universities in the US that accept IELTS score. Some of these include: Arkansas State University, California State University, Los Angeles, Cleveland State University, Florida Institute of Technology, etc.

Q. Is 7.5 a good IELTS score for US?

Yes, one can study in top US universities with the IELTS score of 7.5.

Q: What is IELTS exam all about?

Conducted by IDP, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the world’s most popular English language proficiency tests for candidates looking to pursue higher education abroad and global migration. The IELTS exam is available in two formats. The IELTS Academic and the IELTS General.

The IELTS Academic test is designed for candidates looking to pursue higher education across universities and colleges abroad. The IELTS General Test is for candidates who are looking to migrate to an English-speaking country such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the UK among others.

The IELTS exam evaluates the English speaking, writing, listening and reading skills of the candidate. Your total IELTS score will be a combination of the band scores from the four sections. You will receive IELTS scores based on each of the four skills on a band of 1 – 9, and you will also be awarded an overall band score. You can score whole (example 5.0, 6.0, 7.0) or half (example 5.5, 6.5, 7.5) bands in each part of the test.

Q: How can I practice for the IELTS exam?

After learning the complete format familiarize yourself with all the topics that you need to cover while preparing for the test. You can get online practice tests and make sure to do it while following the time. Prepare for the Listening test by listening to the audio recordings. Similarly, prepare for the Reading and Writing sections accordingly. Make sure you do as much practice as possible in order to get a decent IELTS score.

Q: What is the IELTS exam passing score?

There is no pass or fail in the IELTS exam. Students taking the IELTS exam are graded on their performance in the IELTS test using Bands from 1 – 9 for each skill of the test: Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing. Candidates would also receive an overall band score which would be the average of all the individual scores received by the candidate and rounded to the nearest half band. The IELTS exam does not have a passing score. Universities abroad would have an IELTS minimum score requirement which is often referred to as the IELTS cut-off. This is the minimum score that candidates need to achieve to apply to the university. Candidates should note that getting the minimum IELTS score does not guarantee admission to the university. Candidates are required to score higher than the expected IELTS cut-off.

Q: What is a good IELTS score?

A good IELTS score can vary depending on your specific goals, such as study abroad requirements, visa applications, or employment opportunities. Different institutions and organizations may have different score requirements, so it is essential to research and understand the specific score expectations for your intended purpose. In general, a score of 6.5 or higher is considered a good IELTS score. However, this may differ based on the individual's needs and the requirements of the institution or organisation they are applying to.

Some universities and programs may have higher score requirements, especially for competitive programs or fields of study. It is crucial to review the score requirements of the institutions or organizations you are interested in and aim to achieve a score that meets their criteria. Additionally, consider your own personal goals and requirements when determining what constitutes a good IELTS score for you. Get more details at What is a good IELTS score?

Q: How can I prepare for IELTS exam?

Shiksha Study Abroad has introduced a new, 1-month free online IELTS course to help students prepare for their IELTS Exam. Students associated with Shiksha get complementary free IELTS training for a month. This programme aims to help students prepare for studying abroad without any additional costs.

Starting in early February 2024, the course has already attracted over 1,000+ participants. Shiksha Study Abroad reports impressive results: 80% of students have succeeded in their goals, with the average participant achieving an IELTS score of 7.0.

Key Features of Free IELTS Training

Some of the key features of the Shiksha Study Abroad Free IELTS Training programme typically include:

Live online classes are accessible from anywhere and on any device
1 Month Free Training - Option to choose from Weekend and Weekday Batches
Learn from experienced British Council and Cambridge-certified trainers
Coverage of all IELTS modules: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking
Option for students to retake classes if needed at 0 cost
Mock Tests for the students to practice before the exam

Q: Which month is the best for taking the IELTS exam?

The choice of the best month for taking the IELTS exam can vary depending on individual circumstances and preferences. It's important to consider factors such as your level of preparedness, availability of study time, and the application deadlines of the institutions or organizations you are planning to apply to. Some students may prefer to take the exam during months with fewer personal commitments or distractions, while others may choose months that align with their study schedules or coincide with the application cycles of their desired programs or universities.

It's advisable to plan ahead and consider factors such as the time needed for preparation, availability of test dates, and personal circumstances. Additionally, it can be helpful to check the availability of test slots and the registration process on the official websites of IDP IELTS India. Ultimately, the best month for you to take the IELTS exam will depend on your specific situation and preferences.

Q: How is the IELTS Listening test marked?

The IELTS Listening test consists of 40 questions, and you get one mark for each correct answer. Your total number of correct answers determines your "raw score, " which is then converted into a band score. It is important to try to answer every question, even if you are not sure of the answer. A blank answer will get you zero marks. The table below shows the average number of marks required to achieve a particular band score in the Listening test:

Number of correct answers (Raw Score)	IELTS Listening Band Score
39-40	9.0
37-38	8.5
35-36	8.0
32-34	7.5
30-31	7.0
26-29	6.5
23-25	6.0

Q: How can I know my IELTS test centre?

One can check their IELTS test centre details on the IELTS login account. Candidates ave to visit the official IDP IELTS website, enter the login credentials and check the details of test centres.

About the Author

Written by

Raushan Kumar

Assistant Manager Content

Raushan Kumar is a skilled writer and a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. He oversees various aspects of studying abroad, including educational opportunities, entrance exams, colleges, latest new... Read Full Bio

Reviewed by

Nidhi

MS in USA

With 6 years of sound experience in abroad education industry, Nidhi has helped more than 250+ students to get the admission in their dream universities in USA, Canada and Australia. Before moving to the full time c... Read Full Bio

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Comments

(32)

Pooja

a year ago

Report Abuse

Hi I got 6 bands in IELTS with each 6 Can I get admission in mph in USA or in canada for post gradute health care administration please guide me which country I choose?

a year ago

please reply me

2 years ago

NAME-Prabesh Dhakal IELTS-overall 6.5(L-7,R-7,W-6 and S-5) +2:3.57 out of 4 (science with major maths) SEE:3.5 out of 4 Now I would like to go USA for BIT.

Reply to Prabesh Dhakal

Aprant Agarwal

2 years ago

Report Abuse

For counseling services, please contact our experts here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/apply

Maroju Sravani

2 years ago

Report Abuse

Hii I got 5.5 in ielts I want to do mph in usa is there any university please let me know

Reply to Maroju Sravani

Aprant Agarwal

2 years ago

Report Abuse

Hi. There are many universities in the US that offer MPH. Please refer to the links: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/usa/universities/national-university/master-of-public-health https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/usa/universities/university-of-california-berkeley-campus/master-of-public-health-mph h

...more

Abdul Kadir

2 years ago

Report Abuse

Name: Abdul Kadir IELTS: overall 6( L-6,R-6,W-6 and S-5.5) Bachelor of business administration:3.04 out of 4.0( Major in finance) Higher secondary certificate:4.6 out 5 ( Business study) Secondary school certificate:4.88 out of 5 (Business study) Now I would like to go USA for MBA.

Reply to Abdul Kadir

Piyush Kohli

2 years ago

Report Abuse

Hi Abdul, please go through the below URL and check out the entry requirements of the list of universities offering MBA in USA: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/usa/mba-colleges-dc

IELTS Score for USA: Average IELTS Scores at the Best Universities in US

Study Visa for the US

IELTS Requirement for USA Universites

University

Average Scores Accepted

Special Requirements

IELTS Score for USA FAQs

Key Features of Free IELTS Training

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