TOEFL Score Validity 2026: Check How Long Are Your Scores Valid

TOEFL iBT scores are valid for 2 years from the date you take the test. During this 2-year window, you can send your scores to universities, order extra score reports, and use your MyBest scores. Once 2 years pass, your TOEFL scores expire and cannot be reported or verified. If you are an Indian student planning to study abroad, knowing this timeline is key to planning your application.

How Long Are TOEFL Scores Valid?

As per the official ETS policy, TOEFL iBT scores are valid for exactly 2 years from your test date.

However, there is one exception, and that is for Australian visas. For these, the score may be valid for up to 3 years for visas like the Skilled Migration visa, etc.

When Do You Get Your TOEFL Scores?

Your TOEFL iBT scores are available in your ETS account within 3 days of your test date. You will get an email when they are ready.

• PDF TOEFL score report: Ready to download 24-48 hours after you receive your electronic scores.
• Paper score report (by mail): Mailed 11-15 days after your test date.
• Express shipping: Delivered in 2-5 business days after scores are confirmed (available in 75 countries and territories, including India).

What is the New TOEFL Score Scale?

ETS updated the TOEFL scoring system in January 2026. Indian students applying now must know this change.

As of January 21, 2026, TOEFL iBT uses a new 1–6 score scale (in half-point steps). This replaces the old 0–120 scale.

• You get 4 section scores (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing) + one overall score on the 1–6 scale.
• The overall score is the average of all 4 sections, rounded to the nearest half band.
• For a 2-year transition period, you will also receive a comparable score on the 0–120 scale.

Here is a quick comparison:

What Are TOEFL MyBest Scores and Are They Valid?

TOEFL MyBest scores are a useful feature for students who have taken the TOEFL more than once.

The TOEFL MyBest scores (also called superscores) combine your best section scores from all valid TOEFL iBT tests taken in the last 2 years. For example, if you scored higher in Reading in one attempt and higher in Writing in another, MyBest picks the best from each.

• MyBest scores are included in every TOEFL iBT score report automatically.
• ETS research confirms that MyBest scores are valid measures of English proficiency.
• Many universities accept MyBest scores — check with each institution. Examples include Mississippi State University, Yale University School of Arts, etc.

How to Send TOEFL Scores to Universities in 2026?

Knowing how to send your TOEFL scores and the cost helps Indian students plan their applications better.

Your TOEFL test fee includes up to 4 free score reports. You can add recipients through your ETS account until 10 PM IST on the day before your test.

After the test, you can order additional score reports for INR 2,300 per institution through your ETS account — but only within the 2-year validity window.

Score delivery times vary:

• ETS Data Manager: 4-8 business days.
• Server feeds: 8-10 business days.
• Postal mail: 10-12 business days + mailing time.

Does TOEFL Have a Passing Score?

No. There is no passing or failing score set by ETS or the TOEFL Program. Each university or institution sets its own score requirement. You must check the score requirement of each university you are applying to.

Also Check: Which Universities Abroad are Accepting TOEFL for 2026 Admissions?

TOEFL iBT scores are valid for 2 years from your test date. Plan your test date, keeping your application deadlines in mind. If your scores are close to expiry, retake the test well before you apply. Always check the score requirements of each university, as ETS does not set a universal passing score.