Sending TOEFL Scores to Unapplied Universities: A Comprehensive Guide
Many aspiring students and international students often wonder if they can send their TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) scores to universities they haven't applied to yet. The answer is yes, you can send TOEFL scores to institutions even before submitting an application. This guide will provide a detailed explanation of the process and considerations.
Choosing Initial Recipients
When taking the TOEFL test, you have the option to select up to four institutions to receive your scores. This means you can send scores to universities you're considering without having to apply officially.
During the testing process, you can specify the universities to which you want your scores to be sent. This application works even if you haven't applied to those institutions. This feature is particularly useful for expanding your options and potentially increasing your chances of admission.
Sending Additional Scores Later
If you decide to apply to more universities or want to send scores to additional institutions, this can also be done through the ETS (Educational Testing Service) website. However, you'll need to pay a fee for each additional score report. It's important to note that each university has specific requirements regarding score submission, so it's crucial to check their policies to ensure compliance.
TOEFL Score Validity and Storage
It's important to understand the validity and storage duration of your TOEFL scores. TOEFL scores are valid for two years, meaning that scores from a January test will remain valid until January of the following year.
Universities typically hold these scores until the end of the application season, which is usually the mid-summer. Once the application period ends, scores that aren’t needed for admission will be purged or deleted. For this reason, it's beneficial to send your scores well in advance to ensure they are available when needed.
Common Practices in Universities
Most universities start an application file when any item, including test scores, is received for a potential student. The file is not processed until it is complete, and then it is discarded at the end of the application season for those who are not accepted. This practice ensures that no test scores or other important documents are lost due to submission delays.
For example, if you submit a TOEFL score in October, that score will not only be considered for the current application season but will also remain in the records for the next application season provided it falls within the one-year period.
It's worth noting that while this is a common practice, there might be some institutions that handle things differently. To avoid any confusion, it's best to consult the admissions webpage or call the admissions office of your target schools.
Conclusion
Sending TOEFL scores to unapplied universities is a practical and strategic move. By understanding the process and time frame, you can leverage your TOEFL scores to maximize your chances of admission. Always check each university's specific requirements and ensure you have a clear understanding of the evaluation timeline.