ETS Updates TOEFL, GRE cancellation and Refund Policies for 2024
Table of Contents
- ETS Updates TOEFL, GRE cancellation and Refund Policies for 2024
- Key Changes to ETS Cancellation and Refund Terms
- Understanding the Importance of Standardized Testing
- Frequently Asked questions About ETS Test Cancellation and Refunds
- What are the general refund conditions for ETS tests?
- What happens if ETS cancels my test?
- How does the 4-Day Deadline affect my TOEFL test refund?
- Are there situations where I won’t receive a refund for my ETS test?
- How long does it take to process a refund from ETS?
- What payment methods are accepted by ETS?
test-takers planning to take the TOEFL,GRE,or TOEFL Essentials exams should note recent updates to the cancellation and refund policies implemented by ETS (Educational Testing Service).These revisions, effective as of today, outline specific conditions and deadlines for rescheduling tests and receiving refunds, impacting test-takers globally.
Key Changes to ETS Cancellation and Refund Terms
ETS has updated its policies regarding test cancellations and refunds, impacting individuals registered for various tests, including TOEFL and GRE.The updated terms address several key areas, from payment methods to cancellation deadlines and refund processing.
General Guidelines
ETS maintains the right to cancel or refuse any test request at its discretion, especially in cases of suspected fraud or events outside of ETSS control, such as a Force Majeure Event. Payments must be made in full through approved methods, as ETS does not accept cash.Test-takers with outstanding balances from previous tests must settle them before registering for future exams.
Did You Know? ETS may offer the option to pay in Indian Rupees (INR) for users registering online.
Payment Procedures
During online payments, cardholders may be required to verify their identity through a one-time password or authentication code.Failure to provide accurate facts may result in the transaction being rejected. ETS reserves the right to modify payment options without prior notice.
Cancellation and Refund Specifics
The cancellation and refund terms vary depending on the specific product or service. However, some general rules apply:
- ETS does not issue cash refunds.
- Refunds are processed to the original payment method.
- If the original transaction was made in a currency other than INR, the refund will be calculated using the prevailing foreign exchange rate at the time of the refund.
- Refunds are subject to applicable taxes.
Test-takers are ineligible for refunds if they fail to follow registration procedures, do not receive a score, are absent, arrive late, or lack valid identification at the test center.
Pro Tip: Refund processing may take up to 15 business days for payments made via credit cards, debit cards, or bank accounts.
ETS Cancellation Scenarios
If ETS cancels a test for reasons other than a Force Majeure Event, test-takers will receive a full refund of the test fee. However, in the event of a Force Majeure Event, ETS is not liable for processing cancellations or refunds.
Test-Taker Cancellation Policy
Test-takers can request cancellations, but the terms vary by product and service. ETS advises reviewing the respective ETS Test Bulletins before canceling. A critical factor is the “4-Day Deadline,” which impacts refund eligibility.
The following table summarizes the refund policies based on cancellation timing:
| Cancellation Time | Refund Amount |
|---|---|
| More than 4 days before the test date | 50% of the test fee |
| within 4 days of the test date | No refund |
4-Day Deadline Explained
To receive a partial refund,test-takers must cancel their registration by the 4-Day Deadline,defined as four days prior to the scheduled test date.For instance, if the test date is on a Saturday, the cancellation must occur by Tuesday. Cancellations made before this deadline are eligible for a 50% refund of the test fee. The remaining portion covers registration and test center expenses.
Refunds are limited to the test fee and do not apply to other products or services, such as test readiness materials or additional service fees.
Understanding the Importance of Standardized Testing
Standardized tests like the TOEFL and GRE play a crucial role in academic admissions and professional certifications. these tests provide a consistent measure of skills and knowledge, allowing institutions to compare candidates from diverse backgrounds. The TOEFL,specifically,assesses English language proficiency for non-native speakers seeking to study in English-speaking countries. The GRE, on the other hand, is widely used for graduate school admissions in various fields.
According to a recent report by the graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), approximately 70% of graduate business programs still require or recommend the GRE or GMAT for admission [GMAC, 2023]. Similarly, the TOEFL remains a leading English proficiency test, accepted by over 11,000 institutions worldwide [ETS, 2024]. These statistics highlight the continued relevance and importance of these tests in academic and professional pathways.
Frequently Asked questions About ETS Test Cancellation and Refunds
What are the general refund conditions for ETS tests?
ETS generally processes refunds back to the original payment method. No cash refunds are issued. Refunds may be subject to applicable taxes and currency exchange rates at the time of processing.
What happens if ETS cancels my test?
If ETS cancels your test for reasons other than a Force Majeure event,you are entitled to a full refund of the test fee.
How does the 4-Day Deadline affect my TOEFL test refund?
If you cancel your TOEFL, GRE, or TOEFL Essentials registration by the 4-Day Deadline (four days before your test date), you are eligible for a refund of 50% of the test fee.
Are there situations where I won’t receive a refund for my ETS test?
Yes, you are not eligible for a refund if you fail to follow proper registration procedures, do not receive a score, are absent, arrive late, or fail to provide valid identification at the test center.
How long does it take to process a refund from ETS?
Refunds for payments made via credit, debit cards, or bank accounts typically take around 15 business days to process.
What payment methods are accepted by ETS?
ETS does not accept cash payments. Payments must be made online or through other specified means. ETS may add or remove payment options at its discretion.
These updated policies aim to provide clarity and fairness to test-takers while balancing the operational needs of ETS. Understanding these terms is crucial for anyone planning to register for a TOEFL, GRE, or TOEFL Essentials test.
What are your thoughts on these updated policies? how do you think they will impact test-takers? Share your comments below!