GMAT Retake Success

When, why, and how often should you retake the GMAT?

If you have already taken the GMAT and are dissatisfied with your score, you may be wondering whether to repeat the test right away or wait for the release of the GMAT Focus Edition. Or, is retaking the GMAT exam in its entirety a wise idea? Continue reading to find the answers to any query you have concerning the GMAT exam retake.

A Description of the GMAT retake

Can I retake the GMAT?
GMAT Score
How many times can you take the test again?
A lifespan of up to 8 times
$250* GMAT retake fee

*The GMAT retake price varies depending on the exam site*

Is retaking the GMAT worthwhile?

For many hopeful candidates to business schools, the decision of whether to retake the GMAT exam frequently looms large. While the majority of them believe it to be a one-shot goal, some of them consider trying again.

"Is it worthwhile to retake the test?" entirely based on your tastes. You should retake if your score falls short of the desired score. Additionally, why not repeat the test if you're unhappy with your results and are certain that you can put in more work to considerably raise your score?

When should you think about taking the GMAT again?

The following examples may aid us in determining when to opt for a retest:

Scenario 1: Let's say you've decided to apply to Stanford, Harvard, and Yale University. The deadline is drawing near, and your GMAT score is 710. The typical GMAT cut-off for the institutions you're interested in is:

737 for Stanford University
730 - Harvard University
725 Yale University

Why not try again after fixing your mistakes if you have been scoring higher than the cutoffs during your practice sessions? In this situation, going for a retake would be savvier. However, if your result matches your practice exams, you know where to focus your efforts to get accepted into one of your preferred B-schools.

Scenario 2: Suppose your score is 750, which is higher than the cutoff for the best business schools. Should you still opt to retake the exam? Why not, if you are extremely sure about achieving higher scores or if there are no immediate deadlines?

Instead, you should maintain your score if you want to strengthen the other application components. Choosing between attempts to improve your application or your score should be your priority.

Scenario 3: Assume you received a passing grade, allowing you to enroll in one of your safety schools. Should you still consider taking the exam again? Actually, no! It's not necessarily necessary to have a GMAT score in the A-level school range. The score shouldn't be a major concern if the remaining time may be utilized to strengthen your application.

Things to think about before retaking the GMAT

Please take into account these facts before deciding to investigate it.
You can only repeat the exam 16 days after your initial try.
If you think there is room for improvement after considering your prior attempt, go ahead.
If you've focused on your areas for growth to ace the test
Retaking the GMAT will help to strengthen your profile if your other application components are strong.
On the other hand, a high GMAT score can make up for a low GPA.
Make sure to select a GMAT exam date that gives you ample time to retake the test before the application deadline.

Recognize the best time to retake the GMAT.

Here is the answer to your question, "How soon can I take the exam again?" The GMAT retake policy states that test takers may retake the exam up to five times in a calendar year, but no more than eight times overall, and after 16 days of their prior try.

However, online retakes are only permitted for one sitting, even though the deadline, which is 16 days following the online exam, remains the same. Therefore, if you have used up the first round of the online retake and desire to try again, you will have to sit for the physical retake this time.

Recommended Reading: GMAT Exam Schedule 2023

Do you need to retake the GMAT or GMAT Focus?

There must be some doubt regarding whether to take the new edition of the conventional one given that registration for the GMAT exam for the Focus Edition will start in August 2023 and test appointments will start in the fourth quarter of 2023.

The problem must be genuine for individuals who have already taken the normal GMAT. But do not worry—the traditional GMAT will continue to be offered until early 2024. So, you have the option of going back in time or embracing the novelty of the GMAT Focus Edition.

Make a plan for your GMAT retake.

You should develop a well-structured test-taking plan to make the most of your efforts.

Examine the test-day experience you had: Reviewing your performance is crucial to identify areas where you can improve and put in more effort.

Establish a goal score for yourself: Align your desired score with the prerequisites for the school of your dreams while you do your preparations. View the GMAT requirements for US MBA programs.

Work on your weak areas: Allocate enough time to work on the areas that received low marks. Think of it as a means of developing personally, similar to improving your gaming abilities.

Estimate the time needed for preparation: Timing is crucial! To prepare for the GMAT, improve your application, and meet your application deadline, strike a balance.

Improve your GMAT preparation with Masterclass Space's free GMAT prep resources, developed over years of study and expertise. If you want to learn from our GMAT specialists, join in a free demo class. Choose a time slot here. For more information, contact us at info@masterclassspace.com and see our website at www.masterclassspace.com.