A TOEFL retake is common and completely normal — many strong applicants test more than once. What matters is retaking with a plan, not just hoping for a better day.
This guide covers the rules (timing, attempts), the cost, how MyBest Scores work, and how to make sure your next attempt actually moves your score.
Retake Rules
Know the limits before you book a second date.
How soon
You can retake the TOEFL after a short waiting period between tests, so plan dates around your deadline.
How many times
There is no lifetime limit on attempts, as long as you respect the gap between tests.
Cost of a Retake
A retake is a full new registration, so budget accordingly.
Full fee again
Each attempt costs the full registration fee — there is no discounted retake.
Avoid wasted attempts
Only rebook once your practice scores consistently reach your target.
MyBest Scores
This feature can reduce the pressure of a single test day.
What it is
MyBest Scores combine your highest section scores across all your TOEFL tests from the last two years.
Check acceptance
Many institutions accept MyBest Scores, but always confirm your target program does.
Retake Strategy
A smart retake targets the weak section, not the whole test.
Diagnose the gap
Identify exactly which section cost you points and focus your prep there.
Train under timing
Redo timed practice for that section until your scores are stable above target.
Should You Retake?
Retake when the gap is real and closable, not on a whim.
Worth it
If you are a few points short and have time before your deadline, a focused retake usually pays off.
Not yet
If you have not changed your preparation, a retake will likely repeat the same result.
Plan the Retake Timeline
Treat a retake as a short, focused project rather than an open-ended hope for a better day.
Map your deadline
Count backward from your application deadline, leaving room for score delivery and one more attempt if needed.
Two-to-four week reset
Most score gains in a retake come from 2-4 weeks of targeted practice on the weakest section.
Simulate before rebooking
Take a full timed mock and only rebook once that score sits above your target.
Send the right scores
Decide in advance whether you will use MyBest Scores or a single best test date for each school.
Stay Steady on Retake Day
A calmer second attempt often outperforms an anxious first one, so manage the mental side too.
Trust your prep
Walk in knowing your practice scores already clear the target, which steadies your nerves.
Protect the weak section
Spend your freshest focus on the section you came back to improve.
Bank the easy points
Lock in the questions you reliably get right before chasing the hard ones.
Reset after a slip
One shaky task does not sink a test; breathe and recover on the next one.
Retake With a Plan
A retake only helps if something changes between attempts. Diagnose your weak section, train it under timing, and rebook only when practice scores hold above your target.
Use the score-improvement and mock-test guides below to make your next attempt count.
FAQ
How soon can I retake the TOEFL?
You can retake after a short mandatory waiting period between test dates. Plan your dates around your application deadline.
How many times can I take the TOEFL?
There is no lifetime limit, as long as you respect the required gap between attempts.
Does a TOEFL retake cost the full fee?
Yes. Every attempt is a full new registration at the standard fee; there is no retake discount.
What are MyBest Scores?
MyBest Scores combine your highest section scores across all your valid TOEFL tests from the last two years into one best-of total.
Do universities accept MyBest Scores?
Many do, but not all. Always confirm with your specific target program before relying on them.
Will retaking the TOEFL hurt my application?
No. Schools see retakes as normal. Focus on submitting your best score, not the number of attempts.
Can I retake just one section?
You retake the full test, but your retake strategy should focus preparation on your weakest section to raise the total.
Should I retake if I am only a few points short?
Usually yes, if you have time before your deadline and you change your preparation to target the weak section.