TOEFL is a test for international students aspiring to study abroad. This popularly known test is accepted in 160 countries across the world. Candidates have to meet certain scores set by the university to get admission to their dream university. But, How long is the TOEFL Score Valid? This is a frequently asked question by first-time test takers. To answer this question, your TOEFL score will be valid for two years after your exam date. It is important for candidates to know for how many years toefl score is valid as to manage their application timelines. In this article, we will explore the TOEFL score validity period, why TOEFL scores expire after two years, how to use your scores before they expire, what happens after they expire, and how to plan for retakes or alternative options.
Why To Know TOEFL Score Validity Is Important
Understanding the validity period of your TOEFL scores is one of the most important steps in preparing for the TOEFL exam. TOEFL scores are valid for two years from the date of issuing. One has to be careful as your TOEFL scores might expire before application deadlines while you are planning to apply to universities for the next academic year or the following year.
It’s essential to incorporate this two-year validity period into your application planning. For example, if you take the TOEFL test in January 2025, your scores will remain valid until January 2027. However, if you plan to apply to universities in 2028, your scores might expire, and you might need to retake the TOEFL test.
Hence, knowing the TOEFL score validity helps you plan your test-taking schedule in line with application deadlines, ensuring you don’t miss out on submitting valid scores.
How Long is the TOEFL Score Valid?
TOEFL Conducting body i.e. Educational Testing Services has established the exam score validity to make sure the candidate’s proficiency in the English language is up to date. As previously mentioned, TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years from the date of the exam. The validity of the exam is based on the test date, and not the date the results are announced.
Why do TOEFL Scores Expire After Two Years?
International Universities expect aspiring candidates to have a current level of English proficiency, and this is the major reason why TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years. Old TOEFL Scores can signify a decline in language skills and hence they prefer candidates who are proficient and up to date, demonstrating their preparedness for pursuing studies abroad. Since academic demands and expectations change, it is reasonable to expect that a student’s proficiency will also evolve. The two-year expiration period balances giving students enough time to apply for programs without risking the outdated use of scores in university evaluations.
Tips to Use TOEFL Scores Before They Expire
It is important to consider the validity of your exam scores and monitor all the deadlines in your admission process to avoid any last-minute rush. Here are some tips to use your scores before they expire:
- Submit your scores on time: Submit your TOEFL scores to universities as soon as possible to ensure they remain valid throughout the application process, especially for long deadlines. Universities usually accept scores well before the official application deadlines.
- Track your Score Expiry: Carefully monitor your score expiry, mark your TOEFL score issued date, and track your two-year validity. This can help you avoid submitting expired scores.
- Record your Scores: Always keep a copy of your TOEFL score report, even if you've already submitted it to universities. This can be helpful for your reference if you need to apply again later or request the scores for any other purpose.
- Retake the TOEFL: If you are planning to apply for programs that are sometime in the future and your scores are nearing their expiration date, you may need to retake the test. This will allow your scores to be valid for the upcoming application period
What Happens After TOEFL Score Expires
Your TOEFL scores do not serve any purpose after their expiration. Top Universities accept TOEFL scores within 2 years from the date of the exam for their official purposes. Applying with expired scores is not considered by most of the institutions, they may ask you to submit a new test score before accessing your application. In addition, once your scores have expired, you cannot use them for future test score requests or other purposes like visa applications, internships, or scholarships that require proof of English proficiency.
Consider an example where you took the TOEFL test on Jan 31st, 2024, and you are unable to seek admission immediately due to some circumstances. In this situation, you may have an option to use your score till Jan 31st, 2026. However, your score is not valid for admission purposes after Jan 31st, 2026.
How to Check TOEFL Score Expiration Date
Checking the expiration date of your TOEFL scores is easy. The score report you receive from ETS, the official TOEFL test provider, clearly displays the issue date of your scores. From this date, you can calculate the two-year validity period. Additionally, you can always check the expiry date of your TOEFL scores by logging into your ETS account and reviewing your score details.
It’s a good idea to regularly track the expiration date of your scores, especially if you plan to apply for programs in the future. If your scores are about to expire, you can plan to retake the test well ahead of time to ensure your scores remain valid for your applications.
Plan for TOEFL Retakes
The TOEFL exam is conducted over 50 times a year, Candidates can choose to retake the exam in 3 days after their previous test date. It is important to note that candidates cannot retake specific sections of the exam and have to appear for the entire test. Candidates can plan for retakes if they are not able to meet the eligibility cut-off of their desired university. Retakes incur a separate fee, and scores of retakes are also valid for 2 years. Can also follow some TOEFL retake tips from our experts.
Conclusion
To answer your question, how many years is the TOEFL score valid? It is valid for 2 years from the date of the exam. It is important to keep track of your TOEFL scores as it is crucial for candidates to pursue their studies abroad. The two-year validity period gives students a fair amount of time to use their scores for admissions. By managing your scores wisely, planning retakes if needed, and exploring alternatives, you can ensure that your TOEFL scores work for you during your application process. Whether you decide to retake the test, explore other testing options, or apply to a pathway program, knowing your TOEFL score validity can help keep your plans on track for success.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. For how long is the TOEFL score valid?
The TOEFL conducting body has established a two-year validity period for test scores to ensure that English proficiency remains current. The validity period begins 5-7 days after the results are announced.
2. Can TOEFL results expire after a certain time?
Yes, TOEFL scores last till 2 years after the announcement of results to ensure the candidate’s proficiency in the English language is up to date.
3. What is the fee for TOEFL in India?
TOEFL exam fee is based on the location and some additional costs, however, it is 16,900 for a general TOEFL iBT.
4. How many times can I attempt TOEFL?
Aspirants can retake the TOEFL as many times as they wish but cannot take it more than once within 3 days. If already registered, they must wait 3 days before re-registering.
5. Can I retake TOEFL for free?
Retaking the TOEFL requires payment, as there is no option to take the test for free. The exam fee varies by location, generally ranging from ₹14,760 to ₹20,500.
