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How Many Times You Can Take the GMAT?

Learn how many times you can take the GMAT. You can take the GMAT up to 5 times in a year, but there must be at least 16 days between each attempt. You can also take the GMAT a total of 8 times in your lifetime.
authorImageShivani Kumari11 Dec, 2024
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How Many Times You Can Take the GMAT?

How Many Times You Can Take the GMAT: The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is an important test for students who want to go to business school. It checks skills needed for success in management programs. Recently, the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) made some changes to the GMAT rules.

  • They removed the lifetime limit of eight attempts, meaning you can take the test as many times as you want.
  • However, there are still some rules: you can take the exam up to five times in one year, and you must wait at least 16 days between each attempt.
These changes help test-takers improve their scores and prepare for business school without feeling pressured by a final chance.

How Many Times You Can Take the GMAT?

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a critical component for many aspiring business school students. Understanding the retake policies, frequency limits, and associated fees is essential for effective preparation and strategy.

GMAT Retake Policies: Frequency of GMAT Attempts

The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) has established specific guidelines regarding how many times you can take the GMAT:
  • Annual Limit : Candidates can take the GMAT up to five times within a rolling 12-month period . This means that the 12-month period starts from the date of your first attempt, allowing for multiple attempts throughout the year.
  • Lifetime Limit : Candidates are allowed to take the GMAT a maximum of eight times in their lifetime . This lifetime limit applies regardless of whether the attempts are made in a testing center or online.

Waiting Period Between GMAT Attempts

After each attempt, there is a mandatory waiting period before you can retake the GMAT:
  • Minimum Waiting Period : You must wait at least 16 days between consecutive attempts. This waiting period applies to both in-person and online formats. However, if you switch formats (e.g., from in-person to online), there is no waiting period

Implications of Retaking the GMAT

Retaking the GMAT can be a strategic decision for many candidates. Here are some considerations:
  • Score Improvement : The primary motivation for retaking the GMAT often revolves around improving one's score to enhance competitiveness in the admissions process. Many candidates aim to achieve higher overall scores or improve specific section scores.
  • Impact on Admissions : Business schools generally view multiple attempts positively, especially if there is an improvement in scores. However, excessive attempts without significant improvement may raise concerns about a candidate's preparedness and discipline.

What is GMAT Focus?

The GMAT Focus Edition is a recent update to the traditional GMAT format. It aims to provide a more streamlined testing experience and focuses on assessing skills that are crucial for success in business school and beyond. The introduction of this edition has also led to questions regarding how many times candidates can take this specific format.

Taking GMAT Focus

Candidates can take the GMAT Focus Edition under the same retake policies as the traditional GMAT:
  • You can take it up to five times within a rolling 12-month period.
  • The lifetime limit remains at eight attempts.
  • The same 16-day waiting period applies between attempts, regardless of whether you are taking the traditional GMAT or the GMAT Focus Edition.

GMAT Retake Fee

When considering retaking the GMAT, it's important to factor in costs:
  • The GMAT retake fee is equivalent to the initial exam fee:
    • USD 275 for tests taken at a test center.
    • USD 300 for online tests.
Additionally, there are fees associated with rescheduling your exam:
Reschedule Time Frame Test Center Fee Online Fee
More than 60 days before appointment USD 55 USD 60
15-60 days before appointment USD 110 USD 120
14 days or less before appointment USD 165 USD 180

How Many Times Is GMAT Conducted in India?

In India, as in other countries, candidates have ample opportunities to take the GMAT throughout the year:
  • The GMAT is conducted multiple times across various test centers.
  • Candidates can schedule their tests based on availability, ensuring they have sufficient options to meet their preparation timelines.
This flexibility allows Indian candidates to strategically plan their study schedules and test dates according to their application deadlines.

Preparing for Your Next Attempt

Before retaking the GMAT, it's crucial to engage in thorough preparation:
  • GMAT Practice Tests : Taking practice tests allows candidates to familiarize themselves with the exam format and identify areas needing improvement. Regular practice can help build confidence and reduce anxiety on test day.

Strategies for Effective Retakes of GMAT Exam

Here is the required Strategies for Effective Retakes of GMAT exam listed below:

  1. Analyze Previous Scores : Review your previous performance to identify strengths and weaknesses. Focus your study efforts on areas where you struggled.
  2. Create a Study Plan : Develop a structured study schedule that allocates time for each section of the exam. Incorporate various study materials, including books, online courses, and tutoring if necessary.
  3. Utilize Official Resources : Use official GMAC resources such as practice questions and full-length practice exams available on their website.
  4. Consider Professional Help : If self-study isn’t yielding desired results, consider enrolling in a prep course or hiring a tutor who specializes in GMAT preparation.
  5. Stay Positive and Manage Stress : Test anxiety can impact performance; therefore, incorporate relaxation techniques such as mindfulness or breathing exercises into your routine.
Knowing how many times you can take the GMAT is important for planning your business school applications. GMAC allows up to five attempts in one year and eight in total over a lifetime, giving you plenty of chances to improve your score. To make the most of these attempts, it’s essential to prepare well. Use practice tests and review your past performance to understand how to improve. While retaking the test can help, it’s important to plan each attempt carefully and prepare thoroughly. By following these tips and using the right resources, you can boost your chances of getting the score you need for admission to top business schools. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sf7xMdODk7o&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pw.live%2F&source_ve_path=MjM4NTE

Achieve your MBA target by starting a strategic GMAT preparation under the guidance of PW GMAT Online Coaching experts. Join PW GMAT Online Class to get regular live classes, attempt GMAT Adaptive Tests , and streamline your preparation strategy to score commendable marks.

How Many Times You Can Take the GMAT FAQs

How many times can I take the GMAT in one year?

You can take the GMAT up to 5 times in a rolling 12-month period.

Is there a limit on how many times I can take the GMAT in my lifetime?

No, the lifetime limit has been removed. You can take the GMAT as many times as you want.

How long do I need to wait before retaking the GMAT?

You must wait at least 16 days between each attempt.

Can I take the GMAT both online and at a test center?

Yes, you can choose either option, but the same rules for retakes and waiting periods apply.

Why is it important to plan GMAT retakes carefully?

Planning helps you prepare better and use your attempts wisely to improve your score for business school applications.
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