Many professionals looking back at 2024 are asking themselves a pressing question: “What TOEIC score do you need to succeed?” The answer isn’t a simple number. It depends on what you define as success — and what the job market wanted from candidates last year.
Understanding the TOEIC score system
The TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication) is split into two primary components: Listening & Reading, and Speaking & Writing. Each assesses distinct language skills and is scored independently. The score range for Listening & Reading is from 10 to 990 points, while Speaking and Writing are scored on a scale of 0 to 200 each [3].
How does this translate to real-world value?
The benchmark starts to matter when mapped to widely recognized CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference) levels.
| Section of the TOEIC | Recommended Minimum Score | CEFR Level | Skills Demonstrated |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listening & Reading | 785 – 900 | B2 | Professional-level comprehension and workplace vocabulary [6][8] |
| Speaking | 160+ | B2 | Clear verbal communication in business settings [1][3] |
| Writing | 150+ | B2 | Structured and coherent reports or emails [1] |
The evolving expectations in 2024
One of the most revealing trends in 2024 hiring was the increased baseline for TOEIC results across many industries. Where a 785 used to be admirable, larger corporations — particularly in Asia and Europe — started filtering applicants for 900+ scores in the Listening & Reading section [4][5].
GlobalExam, an online language training company, noted that sectors like international trade and diplomacy consistently required C1-level English proficiency, corresponding to TOEIC scores of at least 945 [6]. This shift marked a clear widening of the gap between general communication needs and strategic roles within companies.
“When applying for a project manager role abroad last year, the recruiter told me, ‘We’re only really considering applicants with TOEIC scores above 900.’ That’s what pushed me to retake the test,” shared Maria Tanaka, a Japanese engineering graduate now working in Berlin.
Sector-specific TOEIC score requirements
Employers are increasingly tailoring their expectations depending on the operational realities of their business domains. Here’s how it broke down in 2024 across different industries:
- Tech/Engineering: Minimum of 785 (B2) — documentation reading, basic collaboration in English [10]
- Customer Service/Hospitality: 550 or more (B1), but higher Speaking scores (160+) heavily weighted [8]
- International Sales/Negotiation: Above 900 (C1), solid Writing expected [5]
- Finance/Consulting: 945+ preferred — presentation and report-level fluency [6][10]
For managers and leadership positions
Strategic roles saw a push for C1-level competency, particularly in multinational firms. According to Edusynch [nofollow – https://edusynch.com/blog/english-in-business/2024/11/12/toeic-scores-and-career-success-what-employers-really-look-for], applicants with TOEIC scores of 945 or above were 40% more likely to pass the first recruiter screening round.
Listing TOEIC on your resume: What really matters?
Not all scores should make it to your CV or LinkedIn profile. Most hiring managers I spoke with actively disregard TOEIC scores below 785 altogether. For roles requiring fluent English, aiming squarely for 945+ was considered a serious competitive edge.
ETS Global, the official TOEIC provider, maps performance levels to the CEFR system explicitly [https://www.etsglobal.org/it/en/help-center/score-usage/are-toeic-listening-and-reading-test-scores-mapped-cefr]. Their documentation is the source most employers rely on to interpret candidate scores.
Choosing the right TOEIC test in 2024
While many candidates still focused on the Listening & Reading test, more recruiters required proof of productive skills — speaking and writing. The “TOEIC 4 Skills” variation (Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing) saw higher demand among startups and international firms [3][7].
Conclusion: There is no single magic score
“Success” through the lens of TOEIC scoring in 2024 depended on context. A 785 score could land you a technical job, while a 945 opened doors to managerial or externally-facing roles. More than anything, the test became a tool for segmentation: filtering communication readiness by function and responsibility.
If you scored below 785 in 2024, you were below the line where serious hiring starts. Above 900? You stood out. Beyond 945? You likely secured your seat at the global table.
FAQ
What is the highest TOEIC score achievable?
The maximum score for the Listening & Reading section is 990. Speaking and Writing sections are scored separately, each with a maximum of 200 points [3].
How do TOEIC scores correlate with CEFR levels?
The correlation is widely recognized: 945–990 corresponds to C1, 785–944 to B2, 550–784 to B1. These mappings are provided by ETS and various training organizations [6][8].
What are the different types of TOEIC tests available?
There are mainly three: TOEIC Listening & Reading, TOEIC Speaking & Writing, and TOEIC 4 Skills (a full suite combining all components). Many employers now prefer the 4 Skills test [3].
How long does it take to receive TOEIC scores?
For Listening & Reading results, scores are typically available within 7–10 days. Speaking & Writing scores may take up to 3 weeks, depending on the country and test center [9].
What is considered a good TOEIC score for job applications?
A score of 785+ is often the minimum for desirable roles. 900+ is considered strong, and 945+ is competitive for top-tier positions [4][5][6].
