Retaking the GMAT can feel like standing at a crossroads. Maybe your first score wasn’t what you hoped, maybe you’re second-guessing whether a retake is worth the stress, or maybe you’re wondering how business schools will judge multiple attempts. The truth is, there’s no single right answer. For some applicants, a GMAT retake strategy is the smartest move they’ll make in the entire MBA process. For others, retaking the GMAT adds cost, pressure, and very little payoff.
That uncertainty is exactly why most people struggle with the decision. How do you know if your profile needs a higher score to be competitive? When should you retake the GMAT to actually make an impact on your admissions odds? And just as important — how much will it cost you in both money and time?
In this guide, I’ll break down what you need to know before you retake the GMAT: the data, the strategy, and the trade-offs. And if you’re still unsure at the end, I’ll show you how to get tailored advice so you don’t gamble with your MBA future.
GMAT Retake Strategy: What the Data Really Shows
According to data collected by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), candidates who retake the GMAT see an average increase of around 30 points. This indicates that there are opportunities for significant improvement when it comes to taking the GMAT – and with enough hard work and dedication, major improvements can be made!
If you have the resources and availability, consider retaking the GMAT based on the statistic from GMAC. The range of your scoring ability varies, so on some days you may score at the higher end and on others at the lower end. Perhaps you didn’t have your best performance on your initial test, but your second attempt could result in a score increase of 10, 20, or even 30 points.
If you plan to retake the GMAT, don’t worry. Your chances of having a better experience have increased because you now know what to expect.
Business schools are competitive, and a stronger GMAT score can potentially put you ahead of other candidates vying for limited spots. That being said, it’s important to set yourself a realistic goal for improvement. If you scored in the 600s on your first attempt, jumping up to a 750 may not be feasible. However, a score increase of 50-100 points can make a significant difference in your application.
How Many Times Can You Retake the GMAT (and When You Should)
If you take the GMAT exam in the same format (either in-person or online), there must be a waiting period of 16 days between exams. However, if you switch formats, such as taking it in-person then online, there is no waiting period required. You are allowed to take the GMAT up to five times within 12 months, regardless of which format you choose. Additionally, you can take the exam up to eight times total throughout your life, regardless of whether you choose to take it online or in person.
Can You Cancel GMAT Scores After a Retake?
It is important to note that you can cancel certain parts of your GMAT scores if you don’t want schools to see them. You can cancel one of the four sections, cancel the entire score, or even ask for a rescore of the AWA section. If you cancel a section, it will not be included on the Official Score Report that schools receive, unless you choose to reinstate it.
How Much Time to Prepare for a GMAT Retake
To determine how long it will take to retake the GMAT, consider your current score and desired score. The GMAT has a clear curriculum, so test takers can prepare in 120 to 200 hours depending on their starting score. As a general guideline, plan to study for 10 hours for every 10-point increase you are aiming for. According to data from GMAC, test takers studying for a score of 700 or more spend an average of 120 hours preparing.
Before selecting a date to retake the GMAT, calculate how many study hours you need and how many days it will take you to complete them. Once you have determined how many days you require, choose a date for the GMAT retake.
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Should You Retake the GMAT? Key Factors to Consider
What Do Your Current GMAT Results Tell You About Retaking?
Before you decide to retake the GMAT, evaluate your performance on the first attempt. Check your overall score and the breakdowns of your score. Take a closer look at the sections where you scored lower than expected. Find your weaknesses and analyze why you failed, Was it a timing issue? Did you lack knowledge of specific question types? Once you determine your shortfalls, you can make informed decisions on how to prepare better for the next time.
Does Your MBA Profile Need a Higher GMAT Score?
Not every applicant benefits from retaking the GMAT. Who should retake the GMAT? Typically, candidates whose current score falls below the median range of their target schools, or those whose profile is already borderline competitive.
If your GPA is strong, your resume shows leadership, and your work experience is impressive, a slightly lower GMAT score may not sink your chances. But if you’re applying to highly selective MBA programs or your application has weaker areas, a GMAT retake can make the difference between rejection and admission.
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When Should You Retake the GMAT Before Deadlines?
Timing is one of the most critical factors in your decision. When should you retake the GMAT? Ideally, you want to allow at least 2–3 months between your first and second attempt so you can prep strategically, address weaknesses, and actually improve.
Also remember: MBA deadlines sneak up fast. If your retake date is too close to Round 1 or Round 2 deadlines, you may not have enough time for your new score to be reported — or for you to adjust your school list.
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Download the Free MBA TimelineHow to Prep Differently for a GMAT Retake
If you decide to retake the GMAT, prepare for it effectively. Take a different approach to your preparation, and focus more on the areas where you need improvement. Use different study materials to avoid repetition, take practice tests regularly, and time yourself as you practice. You can seek support from GMAT tutors or hire an online GMAT prep company if necessary to help you prepare better.
Are You Mentally Ready to Retake the GMAT?
Retaking the GMAT can be stressful and lead to anxiety. You might feel overwhelmed and find studying too much. Make sure you’re in a good mental state to tackle the preparation process and retake the GMAT. Consider taking a break for a while and focus on getting your mind back to a better state so that you can tackle studying once again.
How Much Does It Cost to Retake the GMAT?
One of the most overlooked parts of a GMAT retake strategy is the cost. Each attempt at the GMAT comes with fees, and those can add up quickly if you take the exam multiple times.
| Fee Type | Amount (2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Test Center Registration | US $275 | Standard GMAT exam taken in person at a test center. |
| Online Registration | US $300 | Remote GMAT exam with online proctoring. |
| Rescheduling | $55 – $180 | Lower if 60+ days out, highest if within 14 days of test. |
| Cancellation | $80 – $200 | Refund amount depends on how far in advance you cancel. |
| Additional Score Reports | US $35 each | Charged for each extra school report beyond the included ones. |
That means a retake can easily cost more than just the official exam fee — especially if you’re also paying for prep courses, tutoring, or new study materials. If you plan to retake the GMAT more than once, you could be looking at $600–$900 or more in retake exam fees and related costs.
This is why it’s important to ask yourself: Is retaking the GMAT really the highest-impact use of my resources? For some applicants, investing in better prep or strengthening other parts of the application (resume, essays, recommendations) may actually yield a bigger payoff than another retake.
👉 If you’re unsure, start with a profile consultation. We’ll look at your full MBA profile — test scores, resume, GPA, work experience, and school list — and I’ll tell you if a GMAT retake is worth the investment for your goals.
Pros of Retaking the GMAT (When It Pays Off)
Better Financial Package
Business schools provide financial aid such as grants, stipends, scholarships, and fellowships to the applicants they consider highly desirable for their programs. One of the factors that can influence the extent of this financial assistance is the applicant’s GMAT score.
Mastery of test content
Retaking the GMAT gives you a chance to master the content of the exam better. With more familiarity with the test format and types of questions, you may feel more confident and better prepared to tackle the exam the second time around.
Increased self-confidence
Retaking the GMAT enables you to increase your self-confidence and believe in yourself, knowing that you have worked hard to achieve better scores. This attitude can help you better cope with the stress and pressure of graduate school and professional life.
Cons of Retaking the GMAT (When to Avoid It)
Additional Cost
Retaking the GMAT means additional costs if you want to improve your scores. The fees vary depending on your location and whether you are a first-time or repeat taker.
Time commitment
Retaking the GMAT also requires a significant time commitment. You’ll need to spend time studying and preparing for the test again, which can cut into your work, social, and personal time.
Anxiety and pressure
Retaking the GMAT can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and pressure to achieve higher scores. This process can be stressful and emotionally draining, and it’s essential to be mentally prepared for the challenge.
Perception
It’s also important to note that some business schools may view multiple GMAT attempts as a negative factor in an application. They may question your ability to handle pressure or your level of commitment if you need to take the exam multiple times. Therefore, before deciding to retake the GMAT, it’s essential to do your research and understand how your target schools view multiple attempts.
FAQs About Retaking the GMAT
Who should retake the GMAT?
Applicants who scored below their target school’s median GMAT range, or who have weaker GPAs and resumes, benefit most from a GMAT retake. If your profile is already strong, a slightly lower score may not require another attempt.
When should you retake the GMAT?
The best time to retake is 2–3 months after your first attempt, allowing enough prep time to address weaknesses. Always plan your retake well before MBA application deadlines so scores can be reported on time.
Why should you retake the GMAT?
Retaking can boost your MBA application by 30–50 points on average, which may strengthen your scholarship chances and competitiveness at selective programs. However, the benefit depends on your full profile, not just your score.
Should you avoid retaking the GMAT?
Yes—if your score already matches or exceeds the range for your target schools, retaking adds cost and stress without payoff. In that case, focus on strengthening your essays, resume, and recommendations instead.
What is the GMAT retake cost?
As of 2025, retaking the GMAT costs US $275 at a test center or US $300 online. Rescheduling fees range from $55–$180 depending on timing, and additional score reports are $35 each.
Retaking the GMAT: Is It Worth It for Your MBA Goals?
Retaking the GMAT can be a significant decision to make, and you should carefully consider the pros and cons before making a decision. Ask yourself: Do improvement of scores and increased admission chances outweigh the additional cost, time commitment, anxiety, and pressure? Ultimately, it’s up to you to weigh the options and decide if retaking the GMAT is worth the investment. Remember, you can always seek advice from school officials, GMAT advisors, and alumni to make the best decision for you.
Retaking the GMAT is not an easy choice. Still, with careful consideration and preparation, it can be an opportunity to showcase your abilities and increase your chance of getting admitted to your dream MBA program.
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With a Master’s from McGill University and a Ph.D. from New York University, Dr. Philippe Barr is the founder of The Admit Lab. A former professor and admissions committee insider at UNC–Chapel Hill, he spent over a decade in academia before turning to full-time consulting.
Now a graduate school admissions consultant with over ten years of experience, Dr. Barr has helped hundreds of applicants gain admission to top PhD, MBA, and master’s programs worldwide — while staying in control of their goals, their story, and their future.
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