TiAl alloys have attractive properties such as low density, high modulus, excellent oxidation resistance and creep resistance at elevated temperatures, but the low roomtemperature ductility limits their application. The fine lamellar microstructure contributes to the mechanical properties improvement of TiAl alloys. The method of refining the microstructure of TiAl alloys through rapid cooling has attracted much attention due to the simple process and easy operation. Rapid cooling from 3 regions, ie. liquid phase, β phase and α phase with subsequent heat treatment for microstructure refinement, and the effects of different temperature and cooling rate on quenched microstructure are reviewed. From aspects of phase transformation, refinement mechanism, microstructure control and the effect of microstructure refinement on mechanical properties, the research status of the TiAl alloys microstructure refinement by rapid cooling are discussed. The disadvantages and the prospect of this refining method are also discussed.