Hello Sujan Rahul,

The only time when you are not required to take TOEFL when applying to a university abroad is when you come from a country where the primary means of communication and instruction is English. As an Indian, you fall in the category of a non-English speaking individual and thus universities will require you to take either IELTS or TOEFL iBT in order to prove to colleges whether you will be able to be compatible with the English they speak and use as the primary means of instruction and communication.

What is the TOEFL iBT test?

• TOEFL is a standardized and globally accepted examination which measure the candidate's mastery of the English language.
• TOEFL focuses on how the English language is used in academic settings, and thus most universities accept this examination as it tells them exactly how ready you are in order to effectively adapt to the professors and people, whether it be in casual or academic English, in their university.
• TOEFL tests you in four section namely - Reading, Speaking, Listening and Writing.

Why take the TOEFL?

• It becomes very difficult for students who are coming from a non-English speaking society to adapt to the heavy usage of English in the universities in USA. Thus, via examinations like TOEFL or IELTS the admission board tests whether you are compatible to understand the lectures taken in a fairly English-based programme.
• A good TOEFL score will also enhance your application and also give the admission board the confidence about your easy adaptability.
• It is an examination which is required to be taken by all incoming international students no matter what degree programme they plan on doing.

However, there are certain universities and programmes which ensure that you will not have to take the TOEFL test for admissions. They are as follows:

• Universities like University of Arkansas and University of Dayton offer admissions to international students without TOEFL, provided that they undertake an Intensive English Language Programme (IELP) prior to their admissions.
  
• There are certain community colleges in the Washington State like Shoreline Community College, Edmonds Community College, and Green River College do not require you to take TOEFL or IELTS.

However, in order to get into Tier-1 or Tier-2 colleges you will need to take TOEFL or IELTS. As there are multiple students from all across the world applying to these colleges, a good TOEFL score will be a feather on your cap, it will add shine to your application and also enhance your chances at getting admissions in renown universities.

All the best!

I hope this answers your queries!

Do revert back in case of any further doubts.