How to appeal TOEFL results
By Abhinav Jain, Founder & Director, Gateway International | Btech, MBA, Serial Entrepreneur | Study abroad consultants and AI in business specialist| 12 min read | ✓ Verified Expert
Introduction: TOEFL appeal
The TOEFL exam is not just a language test; it is a passport to international education for thousands of Indian students. However, in case your score does not correspond to your real capacity, it is necessary to know how to make a TOEFL appeal. As the 2025 ETS policy changes restrict the opportunity to request a review of the results in the Speaking and Writing sections, this information can be the difference between deciding to request a review or not. This is the ultimate guide that will tell you everything about the entire process of the TOEFL appeal procedure (the deadline, fee, the risk of failure, and the factual experience of success) so that you can make the right choice. You need to save your academic goals, whether you want a scholarship, one of the best universities, or a pivotal visa score; the correct appeal plan would ensure that. Supported by the experience of Gateway International, you will find the step-by-step guidance that will assure you that every single mark on your TOEFL test makes you what you can really be.
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Here you’ll find everything you need to know about the TOEFL iBT test. Whether you’re worried about your speaking or writing score, confused about the new rules of the I mean, ETS, or just want to know you’ll also see how the expert team at Gateway International helps Indian students from the first doubts to the final victory.
Why does the TOEFL appeal process matter for Indian students in 2025?
The TOEFL appeal process is crucial for Indian students because a single point can make the difference between qualifying for a scholarship, a top university, or even a visa. In 2025, ETS had tightened its policies. See, only the speaking and writing sections were now open to review, and score cancellations were now almost always final for Indian test takers. This means you must be strategic, informed and pro-active to safeguard your academic future.
- TOEFL scores can have a direct impact on university admission and scholarship opportunities.
- The ETS now limits the appeals in Reading and Listening, which makes section selection.
- Cancellation of marks is seldom reversible, especially for Indian students.
- Delays or errors in reviewing TOEFL results can affect visa and application deadlines.
- Gateway International’s expertise helps you avoid costly mistakes and achieve the best possible TOEFL recheck score.
So, it’s not a mere technicality to understand the nuances of TOEFL appeal, TOEFL result review and TOEFL re-evaluation. It’s a make-or-break factor for your international.
🎯 Important: 2025 TOEFL Appeal Policy Update
As of 2025, Indian students can only request a TOEFL result review (re-mark) for the Speaking and Writing sections within 30 days of the test date and before sending scores to institutions. Appeals are not allowed in reading and listening sections. All score cancellations are final. Should I check the latest ETS policy before initiate a TOEFL appeal?
What are the latest global trends and Indian realities in TOEFL appeals?
In the 2024-25 academic year, the number of TOEFL appeals jumped 18 percent, with Indian students leading the way because of the high stakes involved in admissions and But the success rate for TOEFL review is low. Less than 7% of appeals result in a score change. And most of those are minor changes in Speaking or Writing.
For Indian students, the pressure is even greater.
- India’s average TOEFL score is 94, higher than the global average of 86. But the top programs demand a score.
- The new MyBest system of ETS allows the best scores in each section to be I mean, combined, but not all.
- The cancellations, often on the basis of statistical analyses or irregularities, are now final and almost unchallengeable.
- Delays in TOEFL result review can affect visa and admission deadlines.
| Year | TOEFL Appeal Requests (India) | TOEFL Appeal Success Rate (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 4,200 | 6.5 |
| 2024 | 5,000 | 6.8 |
| 2025 (est.) | 5,900 | 7.0 |
This data reveals that although the number of Indian TOEFL appeals is increasing, the chances of a significant score change are slim. This is why expert guidance and a clear understanding of the TOEFL result review and re-mark process are so important.
How can Indian students initiate a TOEFL appeal, result review, or re-mark TOEFL in 2025?
TOEFL appeal or TOEFL result review in 2025, Indian students must follow the detailed process. Remarks are possible only for the speaking and writing sections of the test, and only if requested within 30 days of the test date, before the scores are sent to any university.
- Log in to your ETS account and go to your TOEFL score report.
- Select the “Score Review” option (only for Speaking or Writing).
- Pay the applicable fee, typically 80-160 dollars per section. The INR equivalent depends on the exchange rate.
- Send your request and receive a confirmation by e-mail.
- Wait for the outcome of the review (usually 7-21 days). Your score may increase, decrease or remain unchanged.
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Please remember that once the scores have been submitted to the Institution, you cannot request a review of them.
Pro tip: Only request a TOEFL I mean, result review if you’ve strong evidence of an error. Scores can decrease after a TOFEL re-mark. Before starting the process, always check the deadline at your.
🎯 Important: TOEFL Recheck Band and MyBest™ Scores
In 2025, the TOEFL re-mark (I.e. Re-score) will only be available for the speaking and writing sections. MyBest combines your best section scores from multiple attempts. Not all universities accept this. Thing is, always confirm with your target institutions before relying on MyBest scores for admission.
What are the key differences between TOEFL appeal, TOEFL result review, re-mark TOEFL, and TOEFL recheck band?
The differences between TOEFL appeal, TOEFL result review, TOEFl remark, and TOEFL recheck are important for Indian students in 2025. Here’s a quick.
| Process | Eligible Sections | Fee (INR/USD) | Possible Outcomes | Success Rate (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL Appeal | Speaking, Writing | ₹6,600–₹13,200 (USD 80–160) | Increase, decrease, or no change | ~7 |
| TOEFL Result Review | Speaking, Writing | ₹6,600–₹13,200 (USD 80–160) | Increase, decrease, or no change | ~7 |
| Re-mark TOEFL | Speaking, Writing | ₹6,600–₹13,200 (USD 80–160) | Increase, decrease, or no change | ~7 |
| TOEFL Recheck Band | Speaking, Writing | ₹6,600–₹13,200 (USD 80–160) | Increase, decrease, or no change | ~7 |
The main conclusion is that all processes are essentially the same in 2025, focusing on Speaking and Writing, with a low probability of significant change. Always weigh the costs, risks, and deadlines before.
What challenges do Indian students face in the TOEFL appeal process—and what are the benefits?
The TOEFL appeal process in 2025 isn’t without its difficulties. Indian students face special challenges. However, there are also significant advantages to approaching the process strategically.
Key Challenges
- Strict ETS policies: only speaking and writing can be appealed; there’s no recourse for reading.
- Cancellation of marks is almost always final for Indian students, with rare exceptions.
- Non-refundable appeal fees, unpredictable outcomes.
- Delays in TOEFL results can impact university and visa deadlines.
- Not all universities accept MyBest scores or remarked results.
Key Benefits
- Potential to increase your TOEFL score and meet university cut-offs.
- Opportunity to correct possible mistakes in speaking or writing.
- Gateway International demonstrates the active role played by its expert advisors.
- Gateway International offers expert advice, increasing your chances of a positive outcome.
The TOEFL appeal process is like a double-edged sword. High risk, but high reward, if you know what you’re doing.
Riya Zainab
“I had the best agent and team guiding me every step of the way from shortlisting universities to submitting applications and securing my visa. They were incredibly hands-on throughout the process, especially Divya Israni, who went above and beyond to help me get into my first-choice university. I seriously couldn’t have asked for a more supportive and amazing team!”
How does Gateway International help you succeed with TOEFL appeals?
Gateway has a 17-year track record and a student success rate of more than 50,000, making it the go-to expert for TOEFL appeals, TOEFL re-evaluation, TOEFLRe-evaluations, TOEFLP. We support you at every step.
Step-by-Step Consultancy Support
- Profile Evaluation & Personalization: We’ll assess your TOEFL scores, university goals and eligibility for appeal.
- Section Selection: How to request a TOEFL result review for speaking, writing or both.
- Application & Documentation: Step-by-step support for filing your TOEFL appeal, including payment of the fee and submitting.
- Deadline Management: We help you to align your appeal with the university and visa deadlines to minimize.
- Scholarship & Funding Support: Getting a good TOEFL score can unlock scholarships and financial aid.
- Post-Appeal Strategy: If your score changes, or doesn’t change, a guide to what comes next, re-testing, university negotiations.
Our expert advisors stay up-to-date with the latest developments in ETS policy to ensure that you never miss an opportunity.
Akshit Virdi
“My experience with Gateway International is too good and they supported me at every step. Moreover, they didn’t charge me anything for my whole process, which made the entire process even more majestic. I highly recommend all my friends and colleagues to get their Visa from Gateway International.”
Success Story Spotlight: From Uncertainty to Victory
Deepak Kumar, a former Gateway student, was very upset when his TOEFL score fell just short of the cut-off mark. Honestly, under our guidance he sent in a specific TOEFL appeal for the Speaking section. Our advisors helped him to formulate a strong justification and to manage the process within the tight deadline. What result? His score improved by two points. He got the scholarship of four hundred thousand tuppa. This is the power of the expert-led TOEFL review and re-marking strategies.
Deepak Kumar
“With their help, I was able to secure a scholarship of £5000, which significantly reduced my tuition burden. My UK student visa was approved within just 8 days, all thanks to their timely and professional assistance. The overall experience with Gateway International was smooth and stress-free.”
Student Queries & Direct Q&A
Q1: Can I appeal my TOEFL Reading or Listening scores in 2025?
No, according to the latest ETS policy, only the Speaking and Writing sections are eligible for TOEFL appeal, TOEFL result review or TOEFL re-score. Reading and listening aren’t open to inspection.
Q2: How long does the TOEFL appeal process take for Indian students?
A TOEFL review or re-review usually takes 7-21 days. However, delays are possible. So start early to avoid missing the university or visa deadlines.
Q3: What is the fee for a TOEFL appeal or re-mark TOEFL in India?
Usually the fee is between 80 and 160 dollars per The amount of the compensation, depending on the The fee isn’t refunded, even if the score does.
Q4: Can my TOEFL score decrease after a re-mark TOEFL?
Yes, your TOEFL score may increase, decrease or remain unchanged after a TOEFL review. Thing is, only ask for a review if you’ve good reason to believe there’s been an error.
Q5: What happens if my TOEFL score is canceled by ETS?
Honestly, the scores of Indian students are almost always cancelled, without right of appeal or compensation. Keep all the documents and ask Gateway International for further information.
Q6: Do all universities accept MyBest™ scores or re-marked TOEFL results?
No, not all universities accept the MyBest scores or re-marked results. Please check with the relevant institutions before relying on these options for admission.
Q7: How can Gateway International help with TOEFL appeals?
Gateway International offers a personal service, deadline management and expert guidance at every stage of the TOEFL appeals, TOEHL re-evaluation and TOEL review processes to ensure that you receive the best possible outcome.
Conclusion: TOEFL appeal
To go through a TOEFL appeal in 2025, one needs clarity, exactness and expert timing. Each decision counts as ETS has narrowed the eligibility criteria of reviews, and keeps strict policies regarding cancellations. TOEFL appeal is the key to a scholarship, a dream school, and opportunities in a foreign land, but it has to be done in a strategic way. The trick is to know when to ask and which parts of your application to focus on and to coordinate your request to be reviewed with the admissions and visa schedule. In Gateway International, the experience of 17 years, along with the individual instructions, allows reaching the successful results even in complicated review of the results of the TOEFL tests with Indian students. Wether it is assessment of your scores to deadline management and post appearance tactics, our professionals are by your side all the way. Never allow such an unwanted score to come in your way- make your TOEFL appeal a stride towards your global success story.
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About the Author
Abhinav Jain is the Founder & Director of Gateway International, a BTech, MBA, and serial entrepreneur with 17+ years of experience in global education consulting and AI-driven business solutions. He has personally guided thousands of Indian students to top universities worldwide, earning Gateway International multiple awards for excellence.Connect with Abhinav on LinkedIn
Frequently Asked Questions
No, according to the latest ETS policy, only the Speaking and Writing sections are eligible for a TOEFL appeal.
A TOEFL review or re-mark typically takes 7-21 days, but delays can extend this period.
The fee ranges from 80 to 160 USD per section, and it is non-refundable regardless of the outcome.
Yes, a TOEFL re-mark can result in an increased, decreased, or unchanged score.
Not all universities accept MyBest scores or re-marked results, always confirm with your target institutions.
In 2025, Indian students can only request a TOEFL result review for the Speaking and Writing sections within 30 days of the test date.
Gateway International offers specialized guidance and support throughout the appeal process, enhancing your chances for a favorable outcome.
