Which IELTS and TOEFL scores do I need for high-salary science courses abroad without NEET?

You will typically need an IELTS overall band of 6.5 to 7.0 or a TOEFL iBT score of 90 to 100 plus, though TOEFL iBT moved to a 1 to 6 scale from January 2026. Many universities also accept PTE Academic. Requirements vary from one university to another, so always confirm the exact score on your chosen course page.

English test scores to aim for

Other scores that may be asked

Some universities, especially in the USA and Singapore, may also ask for standardised test scores:

• SAT: around 1400 to 1550 plus is seen as competitive for top universities, but this is not a fixed target
• ACT: a score of 31 to 35 is preferred by many leading institutions, but this is not a fixed target
• English test waivers are possible at some universities if you meet their language criteria

My Advice

Pick your English test early and book it with enough buffer to retake if needed. Then check each shortlisted university's page, because the exact score and any waiver rules differ by institution. Strong activities like science projects or research can also support your profile.