I just took my first TOEFL test. In my application to the colleges that I’m interested in, I filled in the test date that I later on took. IT WENT HORRIBLE, the results haven’t come yet so I don’t know how I did, but it was the speaking part that went bad. I couldn’t concentrate at all when everybody was speaking. I was very distracted. However the application date is due on January 2 and the next available TOEFL date is January 6th. So my question is, can I cancel my TOEFL receipts and if not, do you think I can send the new, hopefully better TOEFL results the universities again after the application date is due. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve already submitted my applications a few weeks ago.
You will have to check with every single college individually when test scores must be received by. Many will have information available on their website. If not, email and ask.
Yes, you can cancel your current test scores if you want to. Your actual test date can be different from whatever date you indicated on your application.
There is a practical difference between sending one set of scores now and another set later, and withholding scores until the second set. Your application may be reviewed as soon as it’s classified as “complete” - which could be before the second set of scores are available.
However, also keep in mind that you may be not able to re-take the test in early January. A test administration can be canceled for a variety of reasons: bad weather, computer problems, concerns about the test questions having been leaked, etc. If you don’t live near the test center, you may encounter unexpected transportation problems that prevent you from getting to the test center on time. I would avoid relying on a last-minute test administration if at all possible.
How confident are you that your scores will be below the minimum threshold required for admission? If they might be above, I would not cancel the current scores. You can still sign up for a second test date as a backup.
If you decide to retake the TOEFL and also send your current scores, I would email the admissions offices to inform them that you had a bad day, that you are retaking the test and to please hold off on making an admission decision until the new scores are available in late January. They may or may not honor your request, but it’s the best you can do at that point.