The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), conducted by ETS, is one of the most widely recognized English proficiency tests for students aspiring to study abroad, particularly in English-speaking countries. Accepted by over 11,500 institutions in 160+ countries, including the UK, US, Canada, and Australia, the TOEFL evaluates four key language skills: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. Each of these sections contributes to an overall score on a scale of 0-120.
A strong TOEFL score is a crucial component of university applications, proving a student’s capability to communicate effectively in academic settings. But for how long will your TOEFL score remain valid? Can an individual retake the exam if not satisfied with the scores? Questions like these often arise regarding utilizing TOEFL scores. In this TOEFL exam guide, we’ll cover all essential aspects of the TOEFL exam, including TOEFL score validity rules, retake guidelines, and steps to follow if your score expires.
Understanding TOEFL Score Validity
TOEFL score validity refers to the period during which a test score remains officially recognized and usable for university admissions, visa applications, and other purposes. ETS, the organization administering TOEFL, sets the score validity at two years from the test date. This period ensures that the candidate’s knowledge of English is up-to-date. Language skills can change over time, so the two-year validity period helps ensure that scores reflect a candidate’s recent language ability and readiness for an English-speaking academic environment.
For students, it’s crucial to consider TOEFL score validity when planning their application timelines. If scores expire before admission deadlines or during an application cycle, students may be required to retake the exam, which involves additional preparation and fees. ETS advises candidates to keep expiration in mind and apply to universities well within the two-year period to avoid any disruptions. This planning ensures that TOEFL scores are accepted without issue, allowing students to focus on other aspects of the application process without needing to worry about score expiration.
How Long is the TOEFL Score Valid?
Your TOEFL score is important, but it doesn’t last forever. As previously mentioned, your TOEFL score remains valid for two years from the test date. For example, if you took the test on March 30, 2024, your score will remain valid until March 30, 2026. It’s essential to note that the two-year validity begins on the test date itself, not the date when results are published.
Scores are typically available within 6 to 7 business days after the test, with a PDF version accessible within 8 days. Keep in mind that TOEFL scores cannot be extended beyond the two-year period. Planning your application timeline carefully around this two-year validity will help ensure a smooth admissions process.
Score Validity Rules
The Educational Testing Service (ETS) plays a crucial role in setting the rules and guidelines for TOEFL score validity. Here’s what you need to know:
- Score Validity Period: TOEFL scores are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- Fairness and Equity: A standardized validity period ensures fairness for all test-takers, regardless of when they take the exam.
- Expired Scores: The policy suggests that TOEFL scores cannot be renewed or extended. Retaking the test is necessary if the scores expire.
Score Expiry
TOEFL scores are valid for a certain period. After that period, candidates cannot use their TOEFL scores for any admissions process. Officially, TOEFL scores are valid for two years from the test date. After this period, scores expire and are no longer usable for academic or organizational applications. If you take the TOEFL on March 30, 2024, your score will remain valid until March 30, 2026. After this date, you’ll need to retake the TOEFL if you wish to use it for future applications.
To avoid issues with score expiration:
- Review your chosen universities’ application deadlines and score validity policies.
- Schedule your test date to align with these deadlines.
- Keep in mind that results are usually available 4-8 days after the exam.
- Register only when fully prepared, and remember that registration remains open up to two days before the exam date.
Can You Access TOEFL Score Once it Expires?
Now, when you know, you can’t use your TOEFL score after its validity period. You might wonder whether you can access your TOEFL score or not. No! After two years, TOEFL scores expire and are no longer accessible on ETS’s website, meaning they can’t be sent to universities or employers as proof of English proficiency. Although you may have saved PDF versions of your scores, these will not be accepted as official documents by institutions.
For personal reference, test-takers can keep PDF copies on their devices or request a paper score report from ETS before the expiration date. However, once scores are expired, they serve only as a record for tracking progress and cannot be submitted for applications or official purposes.
What To Do If TOEFL Result Validity Ends?
If your TOEFL score validity period has expired, you won’t be able to use it for applications or official purposes. However, there are steps you can take to keep your study or career plans on track:
1. Retake the TOEFL Exam: The most straightforward option is to schedule another TOEFL test. ETS conducts the TOEFL exam 50 times a year, you can appear for the exam at any time.
2. Prepare for Other Language Proficiency Tests: If retaking the TOEFL isn’t feasible, consider other accepted English proficiency exams like IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo English Test. Many universities accept scores from multiple exams, so check if alternative tests are valid for your application.
3. Use Expired Scores for Personal Reference: While expired TOEFL scores aren’t official, they can help you gauge your previous performance and identify areas for improvement before retaking the test or attempting a new exam.
4. Plan Strategically: If you anticipate needing English proficiency scores in the future, consider the validity period when scheduling your test to avoid expiration before applications.
By understanding your options, you can confidently manage expired TOEFL scores and plan a path forward for meeting language requirements.
Expiry Reasons
TOEFL scores come with a two-year validity period for several key reasons that ensure they accurately reflect a test-taker’s current language proficiency and meet institutional standards.
1. Language Proficiency Changes Over Time: Language skills can diminish if they aren’t consistently practiced. The two-year validity period ensures that TOEFL scores reflect a recent assessment of an individual’s English abilities, which can be critical for academic or professional settings that require up-to-date language competence.
2. Institutional Requirements for Fresh Scores: Many universities and organizations require scores within a recent timeframe to make sure incoming students or employees have adequate English proficiency to succeed. Outdated scores may not accurately represent a candidate’s current language abilities, impacting their performance in academic or work environments.
3. Fairness and Standardization: A set validity period maintains fairness by requiring all candidates to demonstrate language skills within the same timeframe. This standardization helps institutions consistently evaluate applicants’ readiness, ensuring an equitable admission or hiring process.
By limiting the TOEFL score validity to two years, ETS and institutions can trust that applicants are presenting a current and accurate representation of their language proficiency.
Retaking TOEFL
ETS offers flexible retake options for TOEFL candidates, making it easier for test-takers to meet their target scores. If a candidate does not achieve the minimum score required by their desired institution, they can retake the TOEFL multiple times as needed.
1. Retake Rules and Waiting Period: With recent changes, candidates can now retake the TOEFL just three days after their previous test date, down from the previous 12-day waiting period. This shortened gap allows candidates more opportunities throughout the year to improve their scores. However, each retake requires a separate registration and test fee, so test-takers should consider the financial commitment of multiple attempts.
2. Retake Limitations: Candidates must retake the entire exam, as ETS does not allow retakes of individual sections. Each score from a retake remains valid for two years from the test date, providing ample time for submission to institutions.
Strategies for Improving Your TOEFL Score on a Retake
Here are some strategies to maximize students potential on retakes and overcome common challenges in TOEFL, making progress in weak areas and increasing their confidence for test day.
- Identify Weak Areas: Start by reviewing your previous TOEFL score report to understand where you lost points in each section—listening, reading, speaking, and writing. By pinpointing your weaker areas, you can focus your study efforts more effectively.
- Practice Targeted Listening and Reading Skills: Improve listening and reading comprehension by focusing on understanding main ideas, details, and inferences. Listen to academic lectures or read complex texts to practice identifying key points and answering questions accurately.
- Enhance Speaking Skills Through Practice and Feedback: For the speaking section, practice responding to prompts within the time limit and focus on speaking clearly and coherently. Recording your responses and getting feedback can help you refine your pronunciation and structure. TOEFL courses like those offered by La Forêt provide valuable feedback from experts who can help you improve fluency and clarity.
- Improve Writing with Structured Templates and Vocabulary: Work on creating clear, organized responses using a consistent template for both writing tasks. Expand your vocabulary to make your essays more compelling. Structured courses offer practice essays with feedback on grammar, structure, and vocabulary, helping you achieve higher scores.
- Take Simulated TOEFL Practice Tests: Simulate test conditions by taking full-length TOEFL practice tests. Practice tests help you build endurance, refine time management skills, and reduce test-day anxiety.
- Enroll in a TOEFL Preparation Course: Enrolling in a structured TOEFL course that tailored support with expert guidance. Courses provide personalized feedback, practice materials, and strategies that target individual weak areas, greatly enhancing your test readiness.
- Build Consistent Study Habits and Use Reliable Resources: Regular practice is essential for improvement. Use reputable study guides, online resources, and official TOEFL materials. Structured courses, such as La Forêt’s, ensure you cover all aspects of the exam while keeping you motivated and on track with a study plan.
Why Choose a Professional TOEFL Course for Better Scores?
A professional TOEFL course provides a structured approach to preparation that maximizes your potential for a high score. Here’s why enrolling in a course can make a difference:
- Structured Study Plans
- Realistic Mock Tests
- Personalized Feedback from Experienced Instructors
- Targeted Skills Improvement
- Enhanced Test Readiness and Confidence
For those aiming to achieve their highest possible TOEFL score, a professional course offers a strategic advantage. To learn more about how a structured TOEFL program can support your success, explore La Forêt Education’s TOEFL course—designed to prepare you thoroughly and effectively for the test.
Conclusion
Achieving a high TOEFL score is essential for students aiming to study or work in English-speaking environments. Understanding the TOEFL score validity, retake policies, and effective preparation strategies can make a significant difference in reaching your target. Since scores expire after two years, planning your test dates and preparation timeline is crucial to avoid expired scores disrupting your application process.
Additionally, taking advantage of professional TOEFL courses can provide valuable structure, expert guidance, and targeted practice to improve your performance across all sections. With the right preparation and strategy, you can confidently approach the TOEFL and maximize your potential for success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I Use an Expired TOEFL Score?
Ans: No, an expired TOEFL score cannot be used for official purposes, such as university applications or job placements. Once your score expires—two years from the test date—it is removed from ETS’s online system and cannot be reported to institutions. Even saved PDF files of expired scores won’t be accepted as official documents. To meet application requirements, you’ll need a valid TOEFL score, meaning you may need to retake the test if your score has expired.
Q: How Many Attempts Can I Take for TOEFL?
Ans: There’s no limit on the number of times you can take the TOEFL. Candidates are free to retake the exam as many times as needed to achieve their target score. However, ETS requires a 3-day waiting period between attempts, so you can plan multiple attempts while following this waiting period. This flexibility is helpful for those aiming to improve their scores gradually.
Q: Can I Retake TOEFL for Free?
Ans: No, retaking the TOEFL is not free. Each test attempt requires payment of a separate registration fee. While retaking the test can improve your score, each attempt is an additional cost, so it’s advisable to prepare thoroughly before retaking to manage expenses effectively.
