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TOEICTOEIC Strategy

What is a good TOEIC score? What 550, 700, 800 and 900 mean

By The English for Education team·6 min read·Updated 23 August 2026

IELTS specialists — MUIC & Chulalongkorn University alumni, IELTS Speaking Band 9, IDP-certified.

Quick answer

The TOEIC Listening & Reading test scores from 10 to 990. As a rough guide, 550+ shows you can handle routine workplace English, 700–800 is a common corporate benchmark, and 800+ signals strong, confident communication. There's no universal 'pass' — a good score is whatever your employer or role requires, so always target the specific number you need.

Reading the 10–990 scale

  • Below ~400: basic; can handle simple, predictable exchanges.
  • ~550–700: can manage most routine work communication with some gaps.
  • ~700–800: comfortable in most professional situations — a frequent hiring benchmark.
  • 800–990: strong to advanced; handles nuance, speed and detail well.

What employers actually ask for

Requirements vary widely by employer and role. In Thailand, many entry-level positions look for around 550, a lot of corporates ask for 700–800, and competitive or international roles may want 800+. Always confirm the exact cut-off for your target job rather than assuming.

Set a target and score it

  • Find the specific number your job or programme requires, then aim just above it.
  • Split practice between grammar (Part 5/6) and reading speed (Part 7), plus once-only Listening.
  • Remember there's no penalty for wrong answers — filling every blank protects your score.

Frequently asked questions

Is 700 a good TOEIC score?

700 is a solid, widely accepted benchmark for many corporate roles, showing you can handle most routine workplace English. Some competitive roles want 800+.

What TOEIC score do I need for a job?

It varies by employer — often around 550 for entry roles and 700–800 at larger companies. Check the exact requirement for your target position.

How long is a TOEIC score valid?

Two years. Many employers expect a certificate from within the last two years.

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