For those who have already given the GMAT exam and are not satisfied with the score, would always think of attending or retaking the GMAT exam. Yes, you heard that right. Students can re-take the GMAT exam after 16 days of last attempt. You can retake the test 5 times in 365 days. As far as the score validity of the GMAT exam is concerned, it is 5 years and the GMAT exam fee is USD 275.

The question of GMAT exam retake looms around the heads of those who are not satisfied with their score, however in this article we will discuss when and why you should retake the GMAT exam. Important information related to the GMAT retake exam:

Thinking About Retaking the GMAT?

You might be thinking whether this is worth it or not and those who are in two minds for this are not alone. For those aspiring for reputed business schools or looking for study abroad options constantly struggles with this decision. So, if you are searching for an answer for this question that is retaking GMAT exam prep or not then it actually depends on your situation. If the score you need for your target business school is not up to the mark then considering a GMAT retake option makes sense.

When Should You Consider Retaking the GMAT?

The next important question to ask yourself is when you think is the right time to retake the GMAT. Retaking GMAT can be a smart move and here are few situations in which you can actually think of giving it another try:

• Your score is below your target business school’s average
• You haven’t scored evenly in all sections
• You have the capability to do even better in the next attempt
• As a student you were not well prepared for the first time
• If you are just a few points away from a scholarship cutoff

When a GMAT exam retake is not required:

• Your current GMAT score is already competitive enough for your target business schools
• If you have already taken the GMAT test multiple times now, however there is no significant improvement
• If you don’t have much time for your GMAT preparation

Factors to Consider Before Retaking the GMAT

Before you actually make this decision of reattempting the GMAT, closely look into these factors:

• You can retake the GMAT test only after 16 days of your prior attempt.
• If only you feel that there is any scope of improvement, only then go for the reattempt.
• If you want to make your profile stronger, then only consider retaking the GMAT exam.
• If you are having a low GPA, then a strong GMAT score can actually cover it up.
• Before choosing the GMAT exam date make sure that you have enough time for the GMAT prep and enough window between the test and the business school application deadlines.

The Timing for Retaking the GMAT Exam

If you have decided to retake the GMAT exam, then another question that kicks in is what is the suitable time to retake the GMAT exam? The answer to this question is as per the retake policy, students can sit for the exam after 16 days of their prior attempt and this can be repeated up to 5 times in a year, but in total you can retake up to 8 times only.

So, if you are now deciding to take the exam again then before choosing the time slot, make sure you are done your GMAT prep well.

GMAT Retake Strategy

In order to maximise your GMAT reattempt strategy make your GMAT preparation is well up to the mark and for this you should first create a structured strategy for the same:

• Analyse

Previous exam attempt analysis is important as this will help you understand what went wrong with your first attempt. Review your performance and draft pointers where there is any scope of improvement and figure out areas where additional effort is needed.

• Set up a Target Score

Since this is your second attempt at GMAT, it is important to set a target score for yourself and align your GMAT prep according to that. Also, align your GMAT preparation with your dream school’s requirements.

• Focus on Your Weak Areas

If you have any low scoring areas, then you need to dedicate a good amount of time to work and strengthen your weak areas. Just like you upgrade on your other skills, make it a point of upgrading this in order to enhance your overall GMAT score.

• GMAT Preparation Time Estimation

In GMAT or in any other competitive examination, timing plays a major role. As a GMAT student you need to establish a balance between your GMAT exam preparation, your business school application and aligning with your application deadline.

Conclusion:

We sincerely hope that we have addressed all your queries related to when and why you should retake the GMAT exam. Follow this strategy to make sure your GMAT retake goes well.