If your TOEFL score didn’t meet your target or you simply want to try again for a better result, you might be wondering: how many times can I take the TOEFL in a year? It’s a common concern among test-takers who aim to improve their performance, especially when applying to multiple universities with varying score requirements.

The good news is that the TOEFL iBT® offers flexibility in terms of retakes. However, there are some official rules by ETS (Educational Testing Service) that you need to know before you plan your next attempt.

Let’s explore how often you can take the TOEFL, what the retake rules say, and how to plan multiple test dates wisely.

Official ETS Rule: How Often Can You Retake TOEFL?

Here are the key points you must know:

• You can take the TOEFL as many times as you want in a year.
  There is no annual limit on the number of attempts allowed by ETS.
  
  
• However, you must wait 3 days (72 hours) between test attempts.
  This applies whether you're testing at a centre or at home.
  
  
• You can register for your next test as soon as your current test is complete, but the next test date must be at least 3 days after.

This means if you take the TOEFL in early January, you could theoretically take it again every 3 days throughout the year—adding up to over 100 possible attempts annually. But practically and financially, most students space out their attempts to allow for improvement.

Why Retaking the TOEFL Might Be a Good Idea

Here are some valid reasons to consider multiple attempts:

1. Improve Your Score

Retaking the TOEFL can give you a chance to improve scores in one or more sections, especially if you fell short in speaking or writing.

2. Meet Specific University Requirements

Different universities have different score cut-offs. If your preferred program needs a higher total or sectional score, a second or third attempt could help.

3. Reduce Test Anxiety Over Time

The more familiar you are with the test structure and timing, the more confident you may feel in future attempts.

Factors to Consider Before Retaking TOEFL

Before you jump into scheduling your next test, take a moment to evaluate:

1. Time Gaps Between Attempts

Allow at least 2–4 weeks between tests to review your previous score, identify weaknesses, and practise the skills that need work.

2. Application Deadlines

Check the admission deadlines for your target universities and work backward. TOEFL scores are typically available 4–8 days after the test, so plan accordingly.

3. Cost of Each Attempt

The TOEFL test costs around $195 (INR ₹16,000 approx.) per attempt. Consider your budget before planning multiple retakes.

4. Score Validity

TOEFL scores remain valid for 2 years from the test date, so even if you take the exam early, your scores will still be accepted by universities for upcoming intakes.

Strategic Planning: How Many Times Should You Take It?

Even though there's no cap on the number of attempts, quality matters more than quantity. Most students take the TOEFL 1 to 3 times during their prep journey.

Here’s a smart strategy to follow:

Spreading your attempts across 2–3 months allows you to prepare more efficiently, rather than rushing through back-to-back tests.

When to Avoid Retaking TOEFL

While retakes can help, here are cases where it might not be a good idea:

• You haven’t reviewed your previous mistakes.
  Without feedback or analysis, repeating the test won’t lead to better results.
  
  
• You’re experiencing burnout.
  Taking too many tests close together can cause fatigue, lower focus, and harm performance.
  
  
• You already meet university cut-offs.
   If your score is above the requirement, there’s no real need to retake it “just for a higher number.”

Tips to Maximise Your Score Before a Retake

If you’re preparing for another TOEFL attempt, here are smart ways to boost your score:

• Review your score report. Identify which sections need the most work.
  
  
• Use official TOEFL prep tools, like TOEFL Go app, ETS Practice Tests, and TOEFL Planner.
  
  
• Get feedback on your writing and speaking from tutors or online forums.
  
  
• Simulate test-day conditions by taking full-length mock tests.
  
  
• Focus on grammar and vocabulary through flashcards, quizzes, and reading practice.
  
  
• Practise active listening with podcasts and TED Talks to improve speed and comprehension.
  
  

I hope this blog on TOEFL retake limits helped you understand how many times you can take the test in a year. While ETS allows unlimited attempts, planning your test dates wisely and improving between each try is the key to success. Retake with purpose, not panic—and every new attempt will bring you closer to your target score.