The Test of English as a Foreign Language: examination of the “cut‐off scores” in US universities

Abstract

Investigates a scientific basis for establishing the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) cut‐off scores. Obtains data on 348 foreign students from 50 US universities. Divides students into three categories according to TOEFL score: below 550; 550‐600; and above 600. Measures academic success by first semester or quarter grade point average (GPA) score. Finds a significant difference in GPA score between international graduate students with TOEFL scores above 550 when compared with those with scores below 550. Results support the national trend towards raising foreign graduate student admission minimum TOEFL scores from 500 to 550.

Citation

Messner, P.E. and Liu, N. (1995), "The Test of English as a Foreign Language: examination of the “cut‐off scores” in US universities", International Journal of Educational Management, Vol. 9 No. 2, pp. 39-42. https://doi.org/10.1108/09513549510082378