Recently a few Magoosh TOEFL students have contacted me with a problem that is uncommon but not unheard of. These students have asked about delays to their score reports due to “administrative review.” In this post, I’ll answer some frequently asked questions about TOEFL administrative review—what it is, how it effects score reporting, how you can know if your score reports are under administrative review, and what action you need to take.
What is administrative review?
Administrative review happens when ETS needs to delay issuing a score report. There can be a variety of reasons for the delay.
One of the most common reasons that scores are held up in administrative review is identification—problems correctly verifying a test-taker’s ID. This occurs when the name, date of birth, or other personal information on a test registry doesn’t match the personal information on the ID given at the test center.
Another common reason for administrative review is problems with payment of test fees. Sometimes a credit card company or bank can reject or recall a payment, or payment information can contain errors.
A third somewhat common reason relates to accusations of cheating from test center administrators. Fortunately, this is the least common of the top three reasons for administrative review. Because accusations of cheating are made in the test center at test day, you don’t need to worry about this serious-but-rare problem when you get an administrative review notice—if ETS thinks you cheated, they’ll let you know during or immediately after the testing session.
How to know if your scores are under administrative review
If your scores are placed under administrative review, ETS will contact you about it. Generally, notifications of this kind of score delay are sent by email; there won’t be a phone call or a physical letter sent by post. This unfortunately means that it’s possible for an administrative review notification to accidentally go into junk email or otherwise fail to reach you.
If you haven’t seen a TOEFL “administrative review” email in your inbox but there’s a noticeable delay in receiving your scores, it’s still possible that your scores may be under administrative review.
What to do if your scores are (or might be) under administrative review
If you receive an email notice from ETS about administrative review or if you’re unable to view your scores online after 14 days, contact TOEFL customer service as soon as you can. From there, an ETS agent will be able to tell you why your scores have been delayed and what further action you need to take. In some cases, no further action may be needed on your part. Identification problems are often a result of clerical error and can be resolved internally by ETS. And payment issues can sometimes be resolved directly between ETS and your bank, without you needing to do anything else.
But often, calling in can speed up the resolution process. And there are also many instances in which some sort of action is required from the test-taker to solve a problem that’s triggered an administrative review.
My result is delayed due to they accusing me of using my phone during the break. Not giving my scores. Will they cancel my scores?
Yikes! I’m sorry to hear this is happening to you. There is a chance they could cancel your scores, if they suspect you might have used your phone to cheat in some way. But they also might not. In situations like this, it’s good to be assertive and work with ETS, talking to them about your side of the story. To get started on that, I recommend contacting TOEFL customer service, explaining your situation, and seeing who you should talk to about the problem.
My Scre is in hold and it is in administrative review I had taken on 18/09/2022 so when will get my results
Hi Benny,
We’re sorry to hear about this. ETS does take its scoring seriously. Here is what they say if your scores are under administrative review: “Unless ETS finds substantial evidence that test scores are invalid, the scores are reported. If ETS has concerns about the validity of test scores, the test taker is offered an opportunity to respond and select an option for resolving the matter. If the matter cannot be resolved, ETS will cancel the questioned scores.”
I hope the situation works out well for you! Best of luck.
Hi, I had an appointment for TOEFL home edition on second October, and ProctorU could not connect me to exam. After that I took another exam on fifteen October in center. My score is in administrative review. Do these two relate to each other? And when will I get my result?
Hi Masoumeh,
It is hard to tell why your scores were put on hold. It can be due to a number of factors, as we’ve explained here. Results can take 2-4 weeks to be released, though we’ve also heard of it taking longer. I’d recommend contacting ETS directly for more information, but you may just have to wait it out, unfortunately. I hope this helps at least a bit!
Hi…same happening with me as well! Have you got your scores? and if yes, then in how many days?
hi did you get the results ?
Hi. Do you get your score eventually. I face the same problems so please tell me the results.
I have the same problem , even though if they cancel my scores is there any chance they might ban me from taking the test again ???!??
Hi Melody,
I recommend that you reach out directly to ETS with these kinds of questions. They can provide you with the most accurate response.
I have completed my exam at December 31 but I didn’t get any Update About My Score and when I contacted with Toefl agent and they said No update available regarding to your exam … what’s This and in my proctorU status My EXAM is fulfill and In My ETS account status TEST NOT TAKEN… what’s The problem ….and I didn’t understand why they are delaying my score card
I’m really sorry to hear about this issue! This sounds very frustrating. I recommend that you reach out to ETS and ProctorU directly to investigate what happened. We are not affiliated with them and can’t provide any additional insight. Good luck!
I have completed my exam on 2/02/2022 after 8 days I had mali that my score card was in administrative review so they are telling me to wait for 2-4 week so can I call them and what is the problem with administrative review or els I should wait or my score card has been cancelled
My TOEFL score is under administrative Review so i can get scores or not?
Hi Sonu,
We’re sorry to hear about this. ETS does take its scoring seriously. Here is what they say if your scores are under administrative review: “Unless ETS finds substantial evidence that test scores are invalid, the scores are reported. If ETS has concerns about the validity of test scores, the test taker is offered an opportunity to respond and select an option for resolving the matter. If the matter cannot be resolved, ETS will cancel the questioned scores.”
I hope the situation works out well for you! Best of luck.
Hi Sonu,
Did you get the TOEFL Score after the Administrative review?
Hey…hi did you got your scores
Can we no how you contact the tofel clint acd can you provied contact number
Hi Sudheer,
If you are trying to contact ETS, the maker of the TOEFL exam, you can find their contact information here.
I hope this helps! 😀
Hi my toefl score under administration review. And they have sent mail that you have taken help from other assistance.i have shown my whole room to Invislater.no one at the room. I completed my exam successfully and unofficial score also released and now.my score cancelled I contact to ets they are saying that your score is under administration review.
Will my TOEFL score release or cancel?
hey there, my name is sarjil patel, i also got mail of tofel score delay from ETS. my exam was on 28 june
Hi Sarjil,
My best advice is to reach out directly to ETS, if you’re wondering when you’ll get your scores back. Here at Magoosh we don’t have access to that information, unfortunately 😓
Hope that helps!
Have you got score?
Hello David,
I gave TOEFL exam on 23rd of July 2016 and till now i should be able to get my result, but i didn’t got any notification from ETS so i called up and they told me they found an unauthorized sheet of paper at my desk. I know i haven’t done any unauthorized nor i even have cheated on test because this is a career and have invested a lot of time and money so I cant even think about cheating or taking a cheat sheet.
When i checked my score status in my account it is written
“Score Not Available” – its not “Under Administrative Review”, what does this mean ?
Is my score cancel ? What should i do in this case.
If you can help me or highlight me in this case, it would be great, I’m seriously worried and tensed.
Really appreciate much for your time and effort
Thank you
Hardik Gami
Hi Hardik,
The “Score Not Available” message means they are still processing their decision, but it is a possibility that your score will be cancelled. You will have to wait for them to make their decision–they should notify you when they do. I’m so sorry this has happened. They are very strict about the test procedures, and it has affected you in this case. I hope this turns out well! Good luck! 🙂
Thank you so much for reply, I really appreciate it
Is there any slightest way to give proof to them that I have not cheated in exam or the unauthorized sheet isn’t mine ? I’m sure there is a camera which records everything. Can show that as proof ? Or can I ask what is the unauthorized sheet about ? I don’t know that I’m allowed to ask these type of questions so please if you can spread light on that matter. Almost a week gone and still havenot received any updates from them.
Btw, thank you so much for wish 🙂
Hardik Gami
Hardik,
This kind of administrative review is pretty rare, and no two cases are alike. That being said, I think there’s a definite possibility that you could use video surveillance as evidence in your case. You also can ask for details about the unauthorized sheet…. at least in the sense that asking for that information won’t get you in any trouble. Whether or not ETS gives you a clear answer is another matter. But I’d say it doesn’t hurt to ask.
As you continue to move forward on this, I’d suggest you review ETS’s guide to administrative review of test scores. This gives a good overview of why your test scores might be questioned, how ETS may conduct its investigation, and what you can do in response.
I got my TOEFL score 2 weeks ago and sent the report after that my score not Aviña le on my ets account
Hi hardk you got your score
Dear sir or mam
My name is Arshdeep singh and i have given toefl exam 21-07-2018 and result will declaired 31-07-2018 but today 01-08-2018, and still result is not coming and i am too much tension because why my result is not coming yet , i have trying your customer number but its not working thats why i am sending a mail , so please tell me whats happen in my result , why its not coming
Hi Arshdeep,
Unfortunately, we don’t have any more information about this. You should check the email associated with your TOEFL account and see if ETS has sent you a message (it might be in your Spam or another junk folder). You should really try to contact ETS directly to ask them any questions and see what might be going on! Sorry we can’t be of more help, and good luck.
Will TOEFL scorecard available after administration review?
Hi Popuri, it depends on the decision from your review. You’ll have to contact ETS directly for more information.
did you get your score?
How to get out of this? There is issues with my identity
I mean i wrote my middle name as a short form ‘mohd’ , which is there in practically ever certificate of mine but only in the passport its the full form ‘mohammed’
And now my score is under administrative review
Can i do anything from my side so that i can proove its the same person ?
And also ive sent them a fax long back for changing my middle name to mohammed,they havent done that too still
Please reply soon
Ive sent them several emails,but they seem too insensitive
Hi Habeeba,
Sorry you’re going through this! 🙁 Cases like this are rare, and every case is a little different. So I can’t give you any guaranteed way to resolve this matter. However, I can tell you that a few things are very likely to help you.
First, actually call TOEFL customer service. Live contact can help speed up the process. Second, contact the testing center as well, and ask them if they can verify your ID. You showed an actual photo ID at the test center, and that’s the true proof of your identity. Also, when you call TOEFL customer service, ask them if there’s a way they can verify your identity by photo, possibly with help from the test center where you took the test.
Phone or face-to-face contact with test center administrators and TOEFL management– combined with use of photo ID– is likely to resolve this problem.
Hi
All of test takers who take the exam on November 18 received their own scores. But, Every time I check the score, the status is Not Available. What should I do?
I was informed that a little bit delay for starting my speaking section after the break might cause a delay in my exam report. I’ve sent an email last week regarding this issue but I haven’t received any replies.
Is my score cancel ? What should i do in this case.
If you can help me or highlight me in this case, it would be great, I’m seriously worried and tensed.
Really appreciate much for your time and effort
Thank you
Oh Omid,
I know it is worrying, but you will unfortunately have to wait for ETS to contact you. Until something has officially been said by them, there is nothing any of us can do. :/ Hang in there, and good luck!
thank u for your kind consideration of my question.
I called Toefl testing integrity and complately explained about delaying to report my score.
they saied me to wait two weeks, your socore will report during the next two weeks, if wont call back!
what should i do? it realy will report during two weeks??
From what you’re saying, Omid, it sounds like the administrative problems have only caused a delay in your score, not a cancellation. That’s good! But of course, it can be very stressful to wait for the delay to be resolved. My advice is to wait two weeks– it seems like ETS will likely keep its promise and deliver those scores. But if you get to two weeks and there’s still no sign of your scores, I would advise actually calling TOEFL customer service and really pressing for an answer.
Hello sir
I have given exam on 24th april and today is 3rd May but my case is on under review and he is tell me take the 2-4 week after the we give our final decision but sir my visa deadline is 6 th may this is possible before 6th may solve my case?
Hi Bhuva,
I’m sorry to hear that your test is under review. We are not associated with the TOEFL company so there is nothing we can do about it, unfortunately. You can always try to contact TOEFL again to ask about your scores, or contact your visa administration to discuss with them.
Best of luck to you!
Hello,I have given my test on 3 August and I got a mail that my test is under administrative review.After 2 weeks I called to ets and there they said to wait for one more week to get your score, If not contact again. Will i get my scores? Does this happened to any one ????
Hi Ganesh,
I’m sorry to hear that. I’d suggest you keep reaching out directly to ETS to see what information they can give you. Investigations can take a bit of time until completion, and most of the time it has nothing to do with you but with other irregularities during the exam.
Best of luck to you!
I registered with my first name, Okoro( Surname) before my other names,but in my confirmation slip from TOEFL my surname came last after my other names.Can it be a problem for my score delay since October 29th 2016.
Again can TOEFL send me an email to check my score report ,without them posting it to my account?
Sometimes a change in the order of a test-taker’s name can cause delays or confusion. And it sounds like you have had a noticeable delay in getting your scores, if I understand you correctly.
At this point, if you still can’t actually see your TOEFL score in your account, I would definitely contact TOEFL customer service and ask them if there’s been a problem. Mention the name changes on the confirmation slip– that should help them find the exact cause of your delayed scores.
I gave my Toefl test on 9th December and there was delay in test as the test center was facing some connectivity issues . But they started the test almost 45 mins later from the scheduled time and there was no disturbance during entire test . Its already 22nd December today and its already 13 days . Some of my friends who gave the test at different center on same day got their score on 20th and I haven’t till now . What should I do ? The score section still says , “Score Not Available ” . I have my deadlines coming up and any delay would worsen the situation .
What actually has happened ? Can anyone explain me or is anyone facing the similar situation ?
Hope someone can help me out .
Thank You
Hi Parth,
I’m sorry to hear about your situation. I wouldn’t worry too much about this slight delay, and expect the score any day now. However, if you are concerned and you cannot afford a delay, I would contact ETS to see if there was a potential error/problem that you should be aware of. Hopefully you will get your score soon and this will be a non-issue! Best of luck, and good luck on your applications! 🙂
I TOOK MY GRE TEST ON 5TH SEPTEMBER 2020 I DID’NT RECEIVED THE SCORES UNTILL NOW.WHILE CONTACTING THE THEY SEND A MAIL THAT YOUR SCORES ARE UNDER ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW,WHAT DOES IT MEANS.
Hi Chowdary, I’m afraid we don’t have any further information besides what we wrote in this blog post. I recommend contacting TOEFL directly for more information. Good luck!
did you get ur rank card
Hello,
Have you received your score
Have you received your score card
Hi,
I took my exam on Nov 12 but the score is still not available. And I called them, they told me they thought I was cheating with my notes during the speaking test. We should I do ? I didn’t cheat at all. They just told me my score will be determined cancel or not. Should I just retake the test? I mean paid for it and didn’t cheat but I still have to pay again?
Thank you
Hi Ting,
I’m sorry to hear about those difficulties! That is so frustrating. This is a process that ETS takes very seriously, and it’s hard to say what the best course of action is. My recommendation would be to call ETS and ask why they think you cheated and when a decision will be made. Hopefully, you can tell them your side and get some answers. If they do cancel your score, unfortunately you will have to pay again to re-take the test. Again, I’m sorry to hear about this issue and I hope you get good news soon!
did you get your score ???
Hi, Mr. Recine and Magoosh test expert,
I took the Toefl test at Mid February, 10 days later I received the email saying my test is under administrative review, and it may take up to four weeks.
But two weeks later, I received another letter notes that ETS would review my test score through Board of Review, and they will accept any information from me that they will take it as consideration during the review. In the letter, they said they question my score due to “exact or near answers of me with other test takers'”and “higher score on Reading & Listening compared to my Speaking and Writing sections”
I didn’t cheat, I’m a student who majored in engineering, my major doesn’t require me to write a lot, so my writing skill might not be as good as my vocabulary.
I wonder what kind of information should I send in, I was thinking about send my school transcript with a paragraph explaining myself.
I also contact ETS about it, but they told me they can’t tell me what to send it, but they will accept any information.
the test score really means a lot to me, and I’m so frustrated, is there anything I should do?
Thank you so much!
Hi Angela,
That is very frustrating! You will want to give any evidence you can that might explain why your reading and listening scores are significantly different from your speaking and writing. You could potentially demonstrate that you have had to use passive English skills in your studies but not active ones, discuss your experience in the test center that day, etc. There is no formula for what you should provide, but you want to make the best case for yourself that you can.
Good luck!
Dear
I have done my exam in 30 may 2015
Now I tried to log to my account to download the copy
It’s showing
Result not available?
What do you think boss ?
If the site doesn’t specifically say that your scores are under administrative review, there may be some other reason for the delay, such as computer error or a problem with the website. To be sure about the exact problem though, you’ll probably need to contact TOEFL customer service.
Hello. Ets sent me an email about administrative review. They said that ‘up to for weeks’. But this 4 weeks finished. My scores arent online yet 🙁
Hi John,
I’m sorry to hear that you’ve been waiting for so long. Given that you’ve patiently waited the full 4 weeks, I would recommend that you contact TOEFL customer service to discuss your case and confirm whether there is any sort of timing or next steps they can provide on their end. Speaking directly with TOEFL customer service will provide you with a more direct response and may help you ease any anxiety/frustration. Best of luck John! 🙂
My scores are under administrative reviews because i took notes during the instructions in the speaking part. I was only noting down how many question sections there will be so i don’t lose track of my energy levels. I didn’t even realize that wasn’t allowed. I thought taking notes was ok throughout the test.
They didn’t let me explain myself over the phone, the guy said someone will review your case you need to give them time.
Have you heard of this before? What are my chances here?
I am really annoyed about the money i paid for that test and the 4 boring hours i spent in that bloody freezing test center! I can’t believe i may need to take a bloody English exam twice.
Hi Julie,
I am sorry to hear that this happened to you! Unfortunately, you’ll have to wait for ETS to make their decision on this matter. 🙁 We will keep our fingers crossed for you!
Hi Julie,
Thanks for sharing your experience. How many days did they take to complete administrative reviews? Did they release your score?
Thank you in advance!
Hi.
I received an email from the Toefl guys that my test is under administrative review.
I called them and it turns out because I took notes during the instructions i was reported for misconduct.
The test supervisor told me i cannot take notes so i immediately stopped and he took my scrap paper and gave me new ones. I didn’t think it was an issue at the time but i guess it is…
I was only writing down how many question sections there will be since i didn’t exactly spend a lot of time prepping for this exam so i didn’t know the details by heart.
How big of an issue is this? Do i need to email them and explain my side of the story? Or is this a silly little thing as a result of an overzealous supervisor?
What do you think?
I appreciate your advice.
Hi Julie,
You will need to wait for ETS to get back to you on the issue. Your score may be cancelled or it may be released as normal. Because you complied with the test supervisor, I have high hopes for your result, but you should wait to hear from ETS and then do whatever they ask of you. Good luck!
Hi Julie,
How are you? Did you receive your score finally?
Hi,
Magoosh test experts,
My Exam held on starting of first week that’s 3rd june and after that I have received email that your score are under administrator review. still today I haven’t got my score online. When ever I check my score online it shows that not available. I am trying to call them but no one give answer.
What do you think?
I appreciate your advice please
Hi Montu,
Unfortunately, you will just have to wait until ETS contacts you. Your scores are not released until their administrative review completes, and it is possible that the result of this review will be that you have to retake the test. :/ Be patient, and good luck!
Hello sir, i and my sister got an email that our toefl result is delayed. Actually we have taken the result second time and first time i got 78 score .THis time i am pretty sure that i will get good scores since my attempt of the test was very good.Although me and my sister have used speaking template slighlty similar ,however,our seats were far from each other.what can be the reason for delaying of result?
Hi Jaas,
TOEFL score results can be delayed for many different reasons. While it’s true that this can be done for suspected cheating, there’s no need to assume you’re actually in trouble. TOEFL scores can also be delayed due to computer errors, complications in verifying your photo, and for many other causes. If the letter you got didn’t tell you why your score was delayed, the best thing to do is to contact the makers of the TOEFL and ask them for more information. So I suggest contacting TOEFL customer service. I’m sure they’ll be happy to help you figure out why you haven’t received your scores yet.
S Sir,they said me in an email that after conclusion of adminstrative review, they will notify me only if they have problem concerning my scores otherwise result will be declared.what this means?
Unfortunately, it means you have to wait for them to make their decision. You will either get a score (we hope!) or else your score will be canceled and you will have to take the TOEFL again. :/
Hi everyone
My toefl score explaned than i got a mail it says that your score under administration and wait 2-4 week
i did not see my scores online then 1 week later my toefl official report came to my adress but again when i check the online score page it says not available
Hovewer i had my official toefl report now but on the screen it says your scores are not available
What is that?
I did not understand anything
did you get your score after this?
Hello Sir, I got an e-mail from ETS saying that my score is under administrative review. What happened was this. After the break as the speaking section was about to start, the computer instruction screen asked to continue to the speaking section after I am ready to do so. Everyone was speaking around me and I thought I will start after 20 minutes so that at least the ones around me finish speaking. And I did so. After the test was over test admistrator told me that they would file a complaint. I am really tensed. What should I expect now? Are they going to cancel my score? If they do, how many days they might take to notify me?
Hi Arya,
I honestly don’t know if there is anything you can do now. Opting to wait for 20 minutes when not instructed to do so was a bad choice, but I suspect you already know that. This is why we and many other sources of TOEFL prep warn you about the noise you should expect in the testing center. :/ I am sorry you are dealing with this stress. You will wait “six to eight weeks” according to ETS, so expect to be in a waiting pattern for a while, unfortunately. I do not know how ETS will choose to handle this, and it is possible they will cancel this score. Given the length of time you might be waiting, you should find out if you are eligible to take a new TOEFL test while this is ongoing, because a new score will probably be released quicker than this one. Wishing you the best!
Hi,
I had an exam on 29 October and I got my score on 7 November at 01:10.
But, this time, I had exam on 9 December and I do not get any score until now.
Should I be worried about this? I did not receive any email from ETS,
and the status is ” score is not available”.
I had a delay starting speaking section after break because the administrator wanted to check other people and said me wait. Is this can cause a problem?
Hi Bahar,
The scores are usually sent within 10 days, but this is approximate, so it’s possible that your scores will be posted soon! If not, you should contact ETS directly and ask for more information. Good luck!
ETS said they cancelled my score due to reason they feel in my speaking section have someone else there. I don’t know what went wrong but there was noise in room. can i ask them to give me proof of that?
First, Ander, I’m sorry to hear this is happening to you! As for whether or not you can ask for proof– you can certianly ask. I don’t know ETS’s exact policies on disclosing that, but I know that ETS staff are willing to communicate with students whose scores got cancelled administratively.
If this helps, from what you’ve told me, it’s hard to say whether you’ve been accused of wrongdoing. If ETS thinks someone is in the room with you answering your questions for you, that of course would be thought of as cheating. But even if they just felt someone else was talking too loudly in the background, that could invalidate your Speaking scores even though it wasn’t your fault.
I would advise contacting ETS customer service about this, with the contact info I mentioned in this post. In your case, I would also contact the actual test center where you took the exam. If ETS thinks someone else was nearby and causing problems during your Speaking section, then the are basically investigating test center security and quality control. So the people who manage your test center may able to offer some perspective, or talk to ETS if they feel that ETS is mistaken.
Hello
I did my test on January 6 ,2018 and I got my score after 10 days. However, the score is not available in my account now and I do not now why.
Do you have any idea about my situation ?
Hi Alexis,
I recommend that you contact ETS directly to find out what might be going on. We might be able to make a few guesses here, but you should go directly to the source to see what is happening 🙂
Hi I have taken my tofel test on April 2nd
And I received my scores and I have downloaded it while checking today in website it’s showing scores are not available?
Even though I have not received any mail regarding administrative review
Hi Bharadwaja,
How did you receive your scores at first? If the status says “scores not available,” that is typically normal and the scores will appear in the time ETS has specified that scores will be available after your test. You can read more details here.
Hope this helps a bit! Good luck 🙂
Hi Sir,
I took my TOEFL iBT test on January 6th 2018. On January 17th, ETS sent me an email which stated that my scores were available. I checked in soon afterwards and they were there. However, I log-in into my account today and my scores weren’t there. In the score column, it is written ‘Not Available’. What is wrong in here?
I’m looking forward to your reply. Thank you.
Hi Stephanie,
I’m not sure what’s happening here, but we also heard a similar story from Alexis in a previous comment, so you’re not alone! You should definitely contact ETS directly to see what is going on 🙂
I did my test on January 6 ,2018 and I got my score on 18th of Jan 2018. On 29th Jan i logged in my AC and my scores weren’t there. In the score column, it is written ‘Not Available’. What is wrong in here?
Thanks in Advance
Hi,
I got a mail saying my result is delayed because
We at ETS are highly committed to quality standards and fairness. After every test administration, we go to great lengths to make sure each test result we report is accurate and valid. It is with this objective in mind that we sometimes take additional quality control steps before scores are released.
What may be the reason?
Did u got yours
This happened today in Taipei. My daughter took the Toefl test. She handed her Toefl test already when she talked a bit with another student. And the administrator said she was cheating. She did not cheat. She had turned in her test. What is the situation here?
Thank you !
Hi Millie,
First, I’m sorry to hear this has happened. It sounds like a frustrating and stressful situation!
Second, if your daughter got the notice of possible cheating via email or post after test day, the accusation may not be connected to your daughter talking in the test center. Cheating accusations are made for a variety of reasons.
Regardless of the reason ETS thinks your daughter may have cheated, it’s best to be proactive in this situation. My advice is to have your daughter contact TOEFL customer service as soon as possible, to ask them what’s going on. Sometimes cheating accusations are based on mistakes or misunderstandings. So there’s certainly a chance that your daughter could get the cheating accusation dismissed.
Hi
I gave TOEFL exam and after that I forgot to bring my closet key, so I got permission and went to my desk and grabbed my key. At that time the exam was finished.
Actually, I am so worried. do I have any problem?
Thank you.
Hi Iman,
If you got permission to enter the testing room and retrieve your key from the testing center staff, then you shouldn’t have any issue. If you already completed the test, then there is no way for you to cheat just by walking in the room! I hope this alleviates your worry a bit 🙂
I’m a student who took the test on March 9th. But I recieved a email from ETS today said it under administration’s review.I know when they checking before the exam IDK why there is a paper pieces come out! And there is NOONE told me If that means cheated. They can check the security camera and I promise the whole test I didn’t cheat at all !!! I just feel really upset because the deadline of college application is so near and I really need this score
What a frustrating situation! It’s understandable that you’d feel upset, Mr. A. The good news is that administrative review does not necessarily mean you are being accused of cheating. There are many reasons scores can come under administrative review. Sometimes the cause can be a very simple, minor issue, like a paperwork error or problems reviewing an image of your ID.
What’s most important here is that you work to get the issue resolved as quickly as possible. If you haven’t done so already, I strongly recommend calling or emailing TOEFL customer service to ask them what is going on. Check t see why the administrative review is happening, how quickly it can be resolved, and what additional actions you need to take (if any).
Hi, I took my Toefl exam on the 7th and I wasn’t aware that you’re not supposed to use your phone during the break time. I already finished the reading and listening section when I took my break, and I haven’t started the last 2 sections (speaking and writing) yet before I went to break. So, there was no way that I used my phone to look up for answers for the last 2 sections. They said that they might cancel my scores because I used my phone.
Hi Belldandi. Sorry to hear that! I hope this situation got resolved in the time since you first posted this comment. Some of these rules can be strict, so if you ended up needing to take the test again, I hope it went better for you.
I took the home edition test, and two weeks later received an email about an administrative review. I called and emailed many times, but never got an answer, just that there is a security problem. I contacted proctoru also but to no avail. I’m going to miss my deadline. I did everything that the proctor asked me to do , which was basically nothing once the exam was launched. At the end, they showed me my reading 30/30 and listening 29/30 and asked me if I still wanted my scores to be reported. Before that they told me my exam was submitted. After that they asked me to fill out a survey/feedback for proctoru, which I did. And then it thanked me and it finished. Now when I think back the proctor never asked me to erase my notes. But how is that my fault? It should’ve popped in the chat window that I should erase everything in front of the proctor like all other instructions that were given to me. I’m so disappointed….. I’m going to miss my deadline….. which means a whole year….all because of something that is not my fault…what can I do?
Hi Kash, I’m so sorry to hear about this! It certainly sounds frustrating. I’m afraid I don’t have much in the way of helpful advice here. I recommend that you keep being persistent with calling customer service. Good luck!
Hello, I took my exam last July 1st. It was TOEFL Home Edition, I had several technical problems during the test but finally I finished it properly and got my Reading (22) and Listening (24) scores. To this day I still did not receive the scores or any email from ETS. I have talked to them plenty of times through the online chat and calling them to the customer service phone number, I always get the same answer “apparently there is nothing wrong with your scores and you have to wait longer” no one gives me any more information and actually it looks like no one knows anything about it. They didn’t even give me a time frame, it’s ridiculous. I am starting to get desperate since the University of Utrecht is waiting me to finish my application uploading my scores before the end of August. And because I have to reach 93 points in total I need to know if I have to repeat the exam asap. Can you please guide me on what to do from here? This is a very unpleasant situation.
I’m very sorry to hear this Corisco, but I’m afraid I can’t do much to help you out. Keep being persistent with customer service, and I hope this issue is resolved soon!
Hello, I had received email from ETS that my test is under administration review .So I contacted ETS, they had said that TOEFL writing essay is under administration review. Is this a common case for many ? And how many days it take time to get my scores? I wrote my essay clearly on my own and no chance for plagiarism.
Hi ETS sent me my TOEFL score but they wrote that the writing section is not administered what do they mean by that???
Hi Mohammad, you’ll have to contact ETS directly about this issue. Good luck!
At the es pf my scores it says “**section not administrated “, what does it means?
Hi Jaime, I recommend that you reach out directly to ETS to ask them about this. Good luck!
When I called the office of integrity regarding toefl score card.I came to know that proctor has noticed some thing.
But the proctor was very cooperative. I don’t know the reason for delaying scorecard. Was it about the decent scores I have made on reading 30 listening 26. Was it one of the reason that was going through administration review
I came to know that proctor was noticed something during my TOEFL. But he was very good and understanding . Was it the decent score that I have made of reading 30 listening 26
Is decent score a chance of administration review
Hi Mahesh, TOEFL scores can be delayed if there is suspicion of cheating or a large discrepancy in section scores, but also for reasons like computer errors, complications in verifying your photo, and for many other causes. If the information you got didn’t tell you why your score was delayed, the best thing to do is to contact the makers of the TOEFL and ask them for more information. So I suggest contacting TOEFL customer service. I’m sure they’ll be happy to help you figure out why you haven’t received your scores yet.
Hi sir,
I can take TOEFL test again, if my previous TOEFL test under investigation ( Administrative review ). Is there any possibility to take test again or is there any problems.
Hello Gurram,
I’m sorry, but I’m not really sure about the answer to your question! And I don’t want to speculate. My best recommendation is to contact TOEFL customer service ASAP, as the article above recommends. It’s important to find out why your score is under review and whether you need to take any action. Based on the reason, they should also be able to tell you whether you can or should take the test again.
I hope it all works out smoothly for you! 🙂
bro wt happened later u got score or wrote again?
Hi
I took my ibt mode TOEFL test on July 21, on 31 July at 8:03 pm I have received a mail from ETS stating that my TOEFL scores are under administrative review and it may take up to 2-4 weeks of time to complete the review. I purposely didn’t commit any serious mistakes throughout the test session. now am super worried because I have to report the scores to my university over there in the united states by September 10
Some common mistakes done by me unknowingly are:
1.During the break time I had moved from the room for the duration of 20-30 sec for rest room
2. During speaking, I just turned down my chin, busy taking notes, as soon as the proctor advised me, I raised my head again immediately
3. During my speaking test, my marker stopped working, so, as there was no further chance I scribbled on an A4 sheet for the sake of notes
Actions are taken by the proctor for the above mistakes:
1. After the break, the proctor asked me the reason I said and reshowed the room again for a security check
2. the proctor advised me I corrected it
3. I apologised and tore the paper in front of the proctor
For these reasons, my TOEFL scores are on hold and put under administrative review
Please tell me whether any serious action will taken against my session , help me out sir please
Hi Saikumar,
I’m sorry to hear that your scores are under administrative review. As our blog article states, this usually occurs for one of three reasons: problems with your identification, problems with payment, or problems if the proctor thinks you may have cheated. It’s hard to know for sure why your scores were put under review, but as we suggest, you can try to call in to contact TOEFL customer service to ask them and hopefully resolve any issues more quickly. Here is the page with their contact information.
I hope this helps a bit! 🙂
Recently I’ve got a mail saying that your scores are delayed and it will take 2-4 weeks for reviewing it.does it actually takes 2-4 weeks or more than that time? Some of my friends got their result in 70 days after taking the test? Could you please explain this concept of ETS?
Hi Karthik,
It should take the stated 2-4 weeks. If your score takes longer than that to reach you, I’d suggest contacting ETS directly about the issue.
Best of luck!
Hello sir, I also facing same problem ,I completed my TOEFL exam on 2nd of march 2022 but still I didn’t received score ,even I tried to send mail as u recommended at TOEFL service Mail ID but they didn’t give me any response. can u plz help me in it, so we will get score as soon as possible.
Hi Divya,
We’re so sorry to hear about the issues you’ve been having. As we’re not affiliated with ETS, the TOEFL test company, there is nothing we can do on our end, unfortunately. I do recommend that you try to contact ETS directly. You can find a phone number and message contact page here, under the heading “After the Test.”
Best of luck to you! 😀
Hi.. Did you receive toefl scores? I am also facing same issue
I got mail from ets saying that your essay portion is under administrative review. Please wait for 4 weeks.After the additional 4 weeks have passed, if your score is still unavailable you can contact us.
Even same thing happened to me, did you get your result or not
Hello, I gave my Tofel exam on Dec 1st, 2021. I have received a mail from ETS stating that my TOEFL scores are under administrative review and it may take up to 2-4 weeks of time to complete the review. The deadline was passed and I didn’t get any score updates. The university applications deadlines are closing so I’m thinking to write the exam again.
1. If I retake the test while the previous test score is under review is that allowed? and will that be a problem?
2. Can I expect the scorecard(recent test) to come on time(while the old one is under review)?
Thanks in advance.
Hi Pablo, You could check the email associated with your TOEFL account and see if ETS has sent you a message (it might be in your Spam or another junk folder). If you don’t find anything, you can contact TOEFL customer service to get a direct answer before signing up for a retake. If there was an issue with identification or payment, you’ll want to address that first. Hope that helps!
Hello, I gave my GRE test on 21st Dec 2021 and I am writing this comment on 28th Feb 2022. I have not received the scores yet and is under administrative review. I have been mailing them constantly but as usual get an automated reply. Tried calling the customer services, calls will be put on hold for hours and later get disconnected. I lost hope and applied for the universities with only the TOEFL scores. I did not have the time to write another GRE test and wait for its scores. Immensely disappointed with the ETS services. Hope this doesn’t happen with anyone. Worst feeling.
have a quick question. I took a toefl test on the 13th of March 2022 and haven’t recieved anything yet. And I just noticed that it says “Tested – Scores on hold” in the “Appointment Status”. And outside in action/status I can see that no scores available . I am not sure if my scores are under a administrative review or it’s just a regular status before scores are available. It has been 8 days So… it’s hard to tell. I haven’t gotten any email… so I am just wondering much as this point…
.
I guess my question is that “Tested – Scores on hold” is just a regular message before scores are available? Or it is going under a review?- No mail from ETS regarding Hold
Hi Vishnu,
That status usually means your scores are under administrative review.
We hope everything works out with your score!
Hi i got email form Est my score are under review but my exam was fineshed on 20-jun-2022 till now my score are under review kindly help what i can do
Hi Sudheer,
I’m sorry to hear that. I’d suggest reaching out directly to ETS to see what information they can give you. Additionally, you can read more about what they say it means if your scores are on hold here.
Best of luck to you!
Hi Mahesh.Did you got your score??
Hello vishnu your score is now available on your toefl account.? And i have same problem can u tell me what’s is your identification id with u registered in the exam?
I took a TOFEL test on the 27th of July 2022 and haven’t received anything yet. And I just noticed that it says “Tested – Scores on hold” in the “Appointment Status”. And outside in action/status I can see that no scores available . I am not sure if my scores are under a administrative review or it’s just a regular status before scores are available. It been 23 days So… it’s hard to tell. I haven’t gotten any email… so I am just wondering much as this point…
I sent multiple mails to ETS..
Hi Saikrishna,
It sounds like your test is under review, since it says “scores on hold.” You can read more about that here.
Hoping that everything works out for you and that your scores are released soon, best of luck!
Hi. I have taken my toefl on 23 August and I got a mail stating that my socores are delayed after 10 days and on 25 September in my ets account it is showing that my scores got cancelled. Will I be getting those three where I can get a coupon
Hello,
I’m very sorry to hear about this. Unfortunately, we don’t have any more information because we’re not affiliated with ETS. You should check the email associated with your TOEFL account and see if ETS has sent you a message (it might be in your Spam or another junk folder). You should really try to contact ETS directly to ask them any questions and see what might be going on! Sorry we can’t be of more help, and good luck.
hi i have wrttien my tofel on this oct2nd meanwhile on oct 8th i have got a mail from the administartive review can i get my results are hope it was cancelled
Hi Phani,
I’m very sorry to hear about this. Unfortunately, we don’t have any more information because we’re not affiliated with ETS. You should check the email associated with your TOEFL account and see if ETS has sent you another message (it might be in your Spam or another junk folder). You should really try to contact ETS directly to ask them any questions and see what might be going on! Sorry we can’t be of more help, and good luck.
Hi, I gave TOEFL exam last Monday (11 days ago). my score is on schedule on the etc site. what does it mean?
Hi Nikan,
ETS lists the timeline for when scores should be received by here, and it depends on how you took the test. For instance, scores take longer to receive if you took the paper-based test.
I hope this helps, and good luck to you!
I took the TOEFL IBT home edition on November 9th, 2022. I got the results, but after two weeks, when I opened my account and checked the score to send to the universities, it said that scores were unavailable. I have downloaded my scorecard, but what is this issue? I haven’t received any mail about the review; I need to apply to the universities because the deadlines are coming. Some of the universities are closing deadlines in november 30th;
Hi Sai,
I’m sorry to hear about this, has the issue been resolved yet? If not, I’d recommend contacting the TOEFL team immediately, as they will be the best source to let you know what is going on with your scores.
Good luck to you!
We understand your concern, your March 21, 2023 TOEFL® at-home scores are on hold because they are under administrative review. Please allow an additional 2-4 weeks after the initial 10-15 day scoring period for the review of your essay. We sincerely regret any inconvenience that you may experience, please contact the Office of Testing Integrity at [email protected] for an update.
Best of luck to you, Pravin!
Hi my toefl score under administration review. And they have sent mail that you have taken help from other assistance.i have shown my whole room to Invislater.no one at the room. I completed my exam successfully and unofficial score also released and now.my score cancelled I contact to ets they are saying that your score is under administration review.
Will my TOEFL score release or cancel?
Hi Bharath,
We’re sorry to hear about the issues you’ve had. The best option at this point would be to speak directly with ETS regarding your scores and the decision. Hopefully they can offer you more clarity!
Good luck!