What is the TOEIC Certificate of Achievement?
TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication) is the world’s largest international certification for workplace English communication skills, administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) in the United States. The TOEIC Certificate is an official document issued by ETS to verify English proficiency scores. It follows the same format as the ETS Global Standard Score Report and includes the test-taker’s name, scores for the Listening and Reading sections, the total score, the test date, and a score verification barcode. Key Uses of the TOEIC Certificate
It is important to note that the score report and the certificate hold the same validity; they differ only in format. The score report is a standard document automatically mailed after the test, while the certificate is a formal, honorific document that must be requested separately.
Certificates are categorized into five color-coded levels based on the total score. A new design will be implemented starting in 2026:
| Certificate Level | Total Score Range | CEFR Equivalence |
|---|---|---|
| Gold | 860–990 points | C1 (Advanced) |
| Blue | 730–855 points | B2 (Upper-Intermediate) |
| Green | 470–725 points | B1 (Intermediate) |
| Brown | 220–465 points | A2 (Elementary) |
| Orange | 10–215 points | A1 (Beginner) |
According to the CEFR framework, a score of 785 or higher corresponds to the B2/C1 level, while a score of 945 or higher indicates an advanced C1 level.
II. Primary Uses of the Certificate
The TOEIC certificate is accepted by more than 14,000 organizations in over 150 countries worldwide, ranging from multinational corporations to universities, and from government agencies to small businesses. Specifically:
- Job Recruitment: Many companies in sectors such as technology, aviation, tourism, and finance use the TOEIC as a hiring requirement. For example, companies like TSMC require a minimum TOEIC score of 660 for employment.
- Promotions and Overseas Assignments: Companies use the TOEIC to select employees for overseas assignments and evaluate their eligibility for promotions.
- Study Abroad Applications: Some overseas schools require applicants to submit TOEIC scores to demonstrate their English proficiency.
- Graduation Requirement: An increasing number of universities are making TOEIC scores a graduation requirement.
III. Validity Period and Application Procedures
TOEIC score certificates are valid for two years. After this period, the certificate expires and will not be reissued; candidates must retake the exam.
Application Process: Candidates may apply online for an additional certificate via the official website within two years of the test date. The fee is 80 RMB per copy, and the certificate will be mailed within one month of application.
IV. Frequently Asked Questions and Latest Trends
Q: Does the certificate have a certificate number?
The certificate does not include a certificate number; it only displays the candidate’s name, score, test date, admission ticket number, and a score verification barcode.
Q: How can I verify the authenticity of my scores?
You can verify them by scanning the barcode on the certificate using the TOEIC Score Verification App.
Q: Digital Certificates and Blockchain Technology
ETS has launched digital score certificates based on blockchain technology, featuring tamper-proof security, one-click verification, and eco-friendly, low-carbon characteristics. Candidates can conveniently share them on platforms like LinkedIn using a unique URL and QR code.
