D0uD0u

Yes,i think that most departments are cutting down the number of accepted students. I heard that harvard lost 8 billion $ of its endowment and duke 1.1 billion $. Some schools are having a very hard time. See the statement from the president of University of Connecticut on February 23. The president says they might even consider selling University assets or closing the Graduate School!

I've just received my January 17th result. My scores are: Reading: 30 Listening:28 Speaking:20 :( Writing:28 Total:106 Though my only requirement was a score above 100, i don't feel happy. I'm angry at my speaking score. I expected at least 24.

Hi, you can take toefl ibt once in any seven-day period. When you have questions like this, you can always check the 08-09 toefl ibt bulletin available at the toefl website.

Hi Gerter, I'm no expert but i applied to a few PhD programs this year, though in a different discipline. I applied to some top schools and a few mediocre ones. The highest cut off i've seen in any university is 100 total and 26 speaking. Actually, one school i applied to has an 80 cut-off but performs English placement tests to all internationals once they arrive except for those with 114+ toefl scores. To be considered for a TA, you usually need a 26 speaking score. So,your score seems very safe to me. And, i've never heard of any schools comparing applicants by their Toefl score, unless perhaps you are applying to a PhD in English studies. Once, you are above the cutoff you are fine. What really matters is your research experience, papers, posters, conferences... etc and to a lesser extent your gpa, GRE and subject GRE. IMO,you have nothing to worry about regarding your Toefl. Just focus on other aspects of the application.

Hi, My first post here. I'm waiting for Jan 17th results too. I've submitted a few PhD applications and i'm afraid my toefl score won't be there in time. ETS website makes it clear that we will get results in 15 bussiness days (on Feb 6th) but i know some examiness who got their scores earlier. I'm a little bit worried about speaking and listening sections because i don't have time to retake. hope to hear soon.