Top Reasons to Request a TOEFL iBT® Rescore: Understanding Your Options

Requesting a rescore of your TOEFL iBT® exam can be a crucial decision with the potential to impact your academic and professional pursuits significantly. While the process involves additional time and effort, there are compelling reasons why candidates may choose to pursue a rescore. 

In this blog, we'll explore the top reasons why individuals opt to request a rescore of their TOEFL iBT® exam. Whether you're seeking to improve your score for university admissions, professional certification, or personal satisfaction, understanding these reasons can help you make an informed decision about whether a rescore is right for you.

What is a TOEFL iBT Rescore?

A TOEFL rescore, also known as a hand score verification, is a process offered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) for TOEFL iBT test takers who wish to have their scores manually reviewed. When a test taker requests a rescore, ETS assigns trained raters to review the responses recorded during the exam, excluding the listening and reading sections. Test takers have up to 30 days after taking the TOEFL iBT to request a review of their Writing and/or Speaking section scores.

During the rescore process, raters carefully reevaluate the accuracy of the scoring and ensure that all responses have been appropriately assessed according to the established scoring rubrics. It's essential to understand that a TOEFL rescore does not guarantee a change in your scores. In most cases, the original scores are confirmed after the rescore process. However, in rare instances where discrepancies are identified, adjustments may be made to the final scores.

How to Request a TOEFL iBT Rescore?

If you believe your TOEFL iBT scores in the Writing or Speaking sections do not accurately reflect your abilities, you have the option to request a rescore. Follow these steps to ensure your rescore request is processed smoothly.

Step 1: Check the Eligibility Window

You can request a rescore of your Writing and/or Speaking section up to 30 days after you take the test. Make sure your request falls within this timeframe to be considered valid.

Step 2: Complete the Rescore Request Form

Download and fill out the TOEFL iBT Rescoring Request Form from the official ETS website. Ensure all required fields are completed accurately, including your name, ETS ID, test date, and the specific sections (Writing, Speaking, or both) you want to be rescored.

Step 3: Pay the Rescore Fee

Each section (Writing or Speaking) you wish to be rescored requires a fee. Check the current fee structure on the ETS website. You can pay the fee by credit/debit card, money order, or electronic check. Include your payment information with your rescore request form.

Step 4: Submit the Rescore Request

Mail the completed rescore request form along with the payment to the address specified on the form. Ensure you send it to the correct ETS office to avoid any delays. Keep a copy of the form and the payment receipt for your records.

Step 5: Wait for the Results

Once your request is received, ETS will process it and assign trained raters to review your responses manually. The rescore process can take approximately three weeks. You will be notified of the outcome via your TOEFL iBT account, and updated scores will be sent to any institutions you initially selected to receive your scores.

Top 5 Reasons to Request TOEFL iBT Rescore

When you receive your TOEFL iBT scores, you might feel they don’t accurately reflect your abilities. So, here are the top five reasons to consider requesting a rescore.

1. Close to the Required Score

If your scores in the Writing or Speaking sections fall just short of the required threshold for your desired university or program, requesting a rescore could potentially raise your score to meet the requirement. This slight increase can be crucial for your application success. Though it is not necessary that a rescore request would definitely lead to an increase in scores.

2. Discrepancy Between Skills

If you notice a significant difference between your Writing and Speaking scores compared to your Reading and Listening scores, it could indicate an inconsistency in scoring. A rescore might provide a more balanced evaluation of your abilities.

3. Confidence in Performance

If you felt confident about your performance during the test, especially in the Writing or Speaking sections, and your scores don't seem to match your expectations, a rescore can offer reassurance or correction.

4. Previous Higher Scores

If you have taken the TOEFL iBT before and scored higher in the Writing or Speaking sections, but your recent scores are unexpectedly lower, a rescore might help identify any scoring errors and potentially restore your previous high scores.

5. Unusual Test Conditions

If you experienced any unusual conditions during the test, such as technical issues or disturbances that could have affected your performance, a rescore can ensure that your responses are fairly evaluated.

Requesting a TOEFL iBT rescore can be a valuable step. By understanding the eligibility requirements and following the submission process, you can ensure your request is processed efficiently. While a rescore may not always result in a score change, it offers an additional opportunity for review and potential improvement. Ultimately, taking advantage of the rescore option can provide peace of mind and confidence in your TOEFL iBT results, helping you achieve your academic and professional goals.