Rules, comparisons and data

Can your unofficial TOEFL Reading and Listening scores change?

Yes, though ETS says it is rare. At the end of the test you see unofficial Reading and Listening scores and the date your official scores are due. Every score then goes through ETS quality checks, including statistical analysis, and can change before your official scores reach your ETS account about 3 days after the test.
  • Guide updated · 30 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS
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Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026

What you see at the end of the test

Reading and Listening are scored instantly, so you see unofficial scores for those two sections and the date to expect your official scores (ETS test day). Speaking and Writing scores come with your official results; ETS says TOEFL tests are scored only by a centralised scoring team, never at the test centre (ETS).

WhenWhat you get
End of the testUnofficial Reading and Listening scores, and your official score date
End of the testThe choice to report or cancel all your scores
3 days after the testOfficial scores for all four sections in your ETS account

Why they can change

All scores must pass ETS quality checks before release, and the statistical analysis done after the test can change them. ETS says a change is rare but possible, which is why the scores stay unofficial until they appear in your account (ETS score FAQ). The bulletin says the same: unofficial scores may differ from the official ones posted to your account (bulletin).

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Report or cancel: the decision you make on the day

After seeing your unofficial scores, you choose to report or cancel. Cancelling covers all sections, nothing is reported to you or your score recipients, and the fee is not refunded. Once you choose to report, you cannot cancel (ETS).

You can reinstate cancelled scores in your ETS account within 60 days of the test, for a fee that ETS's fee table lists at US$20; they are reported about 3 weeks after your request and payment (ETS, fees). If you want to test again, see how many times you can take TOEFL. Rules and fees change. Check the test owner's own page before you book or pay. This guide is general information, not official advice from ETS or Duolingo.

Frequently asked questions

Are TOEFL unofficial scores accurate?+

They usually stand, but ETS says they can change, rarely, after its quality checks and statistical analysis.

Why don't I see Speaking and Writing scores at the end?+

Only Reading and Listening are scored instantly. Speaking and Writing are scored by ETS's central scoring team.

When do TOEFL official scores come out?+

In your ETS account 3 days after the test. The exact date is shown at the end of the test.

Can I cancel TOEFL scores after seeing them?+

Only at the end of the test, and only all sections together, with no refund.

Can I get cancelled TOEFL scores back?+

Yes, within 60 days of the test through your ETS account, for a fee listed at US$20.

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Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.

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