GMAT Retake Strategy Steps – A Comprehensive Guide

If your initial GMAT score didn’t meet your expectations, don’t be discouraged. Retaking the GMAT can provide you with a valuable opportunity to improve your score and strengthen your application. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential GMAT retake strategy steps to help you achieve your target score and succeed in your business school journey.

Who can retake the GMAT exam?

Anyone who has previously taken the GMAT exam can retake it, provided they meet specific GMAT eligibility criteria. You must wait at least 16 days between attempts and can take the GMAT up to five times within a rolling 12-month period, with a lifetime limit of eight attempts.

Candidates must be at least 18 years old, though those aged 13-17 can take the exam with parental consent. Ensure you have valid identification matching the name used during registration. The retake fee is $275 (approximately ₹22,500 INR).

Additionally, plan your retake with your target business school application deadlines in mind, allowing ample time for preparation and score reporting. Utilizing resources such as GMAT prep courses, practice tests, and study groups can enhance your preparation for a successful retake.

When should you retake the GMAT?

One can retake the GMAT under the following circumstances:

1. Low Initial Score: If your initial GMAT percentile is below the average for your target programs, retaking can boost your chances of admission.
2. Test-Day Issues: If you faced test anxiety, technical problems, or poor time management during your first attempt.
3. Score Improvement: If you believe you can significantly improve specific areas, such as GMAT verbal or quantitative sections, with additional study.
4. Preparation Gaps: If you didn’t allocate enough time to prepare or didn’t use effective study resources initially.
5. Scholarship Opportunities: If a higher GMAT score can make you eligible for more scholarships or financial aid.
6. Competitive Edge: If you want to strengthen your application to stand out in competitive programs.

Using resources like GMAT prep books, mock tests and GMAT Club, and following a structured retake strategy, can help you better prepare for your next attempt.

5 Things to consider when you retake the GMAT

Retaking the GMAT requires careful planning and consideration to ensure improved performance and a higher score. Here are key factors to keep in mind as you prepare for your GMAT retake.

• Analyse your previous GMAT score report to identify weak areas and understand the mistakes you made.
• Allocate 2-3 months for focused preparation, using GMAT prep materials, online courses, and practice tests to enhance your study strategy.
• Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions to build stamina and improve time management, refining your approach based on results. Because Mastering GMAT time is really important .
• Develop techniques for different question types and practice under realistic conditions to reduce anxiety and improve performance.
•  Schedule your retake well in advance of MBA application deadlines, considering the 16-day wait period and the annual/lifetime limits on attempts.

Benefits of Retaking the GMAT 

Retaking the GMAT offers numerous advantages that can significantly enhance your application and boost your confidence. Here are the key benefits of giving the GMAT another try.

• Improved Scores:
  • Retaking the GMAT can lead to higher scores, especially if you focus on weak areas and refine your test-taking strategies. This can make your application more competitive.
• Better Program Fit:
  • Cracking the GMAT with a higher score can align you with the average or above-average scores of your target programs, increasing your chances of acceptance.
• Scholarship Opportunities:
  • Higher scores can qualify you for scholarships and financial aid, reducing the financial burden of your education.
• Enhanced Test Strategies:
  • Learning from your previous attempt, you can develop better time management and test-taking strategies, improving overall performance.
• Confidence Boost:
  • A second attempt, with thorough preparation, can boost your confidence, reducing anxiety and leading to a better test experience.
• Demonstrated Commitment:
  • Retaking the GMAT shows dedication and a willingness to improve, which can be appealing to admissions committees.
• Utilization of Resources:
  • Using additional resources such as GMAT prep mock tests, GMAT Club, and expert tips can provide a comprehensive study plan and better preparation.
• Score Superseding:
  • Some programs consider the highest score across multiple attempts, so a better score can override a previous lower score.
• Application Strengthening:
  • Overall, a higher GMAT score can significantly strengthen your application, giving you a competitive edge in the admissions process. Understand the importance of GMAT exam and schedule your retake attempts.

Cons of Retaking the GMAT 

While retaking the GMAT can offer benefits, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks. Here are some cons of retaking the GMAT that candidates should be aware of before deciding to retake the exam.

Financial Cost

Retaking the GMAT incurs a fee of $275 (approximately ₹22,500 INR) per attempt. Additionally, there may be costs for preparation materials, courses, or tutoring services. These expenses can add up, making multiple retakes a financial burden.

Time Investment

Preparing for and taking the GMAT again requires significant time. This includes studying, taking practice tests, and the actual test day. Balancing this with work, school, or personal commitments can be challenging.

Stress and Pressure

The pressure to improve your score can lead to increased stress and anxiety. This can negatively impact your performance, especially if you struggle with test anxiety.

Application Timing

Frequent retakes may delay your application process, as you need to wait for scores and ensure they meet application deadlines. This can potentially postpone your admission to an MBA program.

Diminishing Returns

While retaking the GMAT can lead to score improvement, there’s no guarantee of a significant increase. Repeated attempts might yield only marginal gains, which may not justify the effort and resources invested. Also, candidates looking to enrol in a business program should understand that there are several executive MBA programs that don’t require a GMAT score for its admissions.

How often can you retake the GMAT?

GMAT is one of the many exams that provides lifetime limits to its students. You can retake the GMAT exam once every 16 days, up to five times within a 12-month period, and a total of eight times in your lifetime. This flexibility allows you to take the GMAT multiple times to achieve a good GMAT score that meets your target score for business school applications.

 If your initial attempt doesn’t reflect your true potential, you can retake the exam to improve your chances of admission into a top business school. Strategically planning your retakes can help you maximize your GMAT performance and reach your desired score.

GMAT Retake Fee

The GMAT retake fee is $275, which is approximately ₹22,500 INR. This fee applies each time you decide to retake the GMAT exam. When considering a retake, it’s important to factor in this cost along with any additional expenses for preparation materials or courses. Achieving a higher score can significantly impact your chances of getting into a top business school, making the investment worthwhile if it helps you reach your target score.

5-Step GMAT Retake Strategy 

Preparing for the GMAT requires a strategic approach to maximize your score and improve your chances of admission to a top MBA program. Whether it’s your first attempt or a GMAT retake, following a structured plan is essential for success. Here are five key GMAT strategy steps to help you beat the GMAT with a good score.

1. Create a Comprehensive Study Plan

• GMAT Study: Begin by developing a detailed study plan that covers all GMAT sections, including GMAT math and verbal section.
• Time to Prepare: Allocate sufficient time to prepare for the GMAT, ideally several months before your test date.
• Practice Questions: Incorporate a variety of practice questions and GMAT prep resources to build your skills.
• Study Strategy: Use a mix of self-study and guided instruction, such as an online GMAT course or a GMAT instructor, to cover everything you need.

2. Utilize Practice Tests

• Practice Test: Regularly take full-length GMAT prep mock tests to gauge your progress and identify areas for improvement.
• Mock Tests on GMAT Club: Utilize free GMAT prep mock tests available on GMAT Club to simulate test day conditions.
• Time Management: Focus on time management during these practice tests to ensure you can complete each section within the allotted time.

3. Focus on Weak Areas

• Target Score: Identify your target score based on the average GMAT scores of your desired MBA programs.
• Focus on Improving: Concentrate on improving weaker areas, whether it’s GMAT verbal, quantitative, or integrated reasoning.
• GMAT Retake Strategy: If your initial GMAT attempt did not meet your target score, develop a GMAT retake strategy to address these weaknesses.

4. Employ Effective Test-Taking Strategies

• Test-Taking Strategies: Develop strategies for tackling different types of questions and managing test day stress.
• GMAT Performance: Practice techniques for improving your GMAT performance, such as eliminating incorrect answers and pacing yourself. Don’t forget that GMAT has negative marking.
• Test Score Improvement: Implement these strategies in practice tests to see score improvement in GMAT results.

5. Plan for Multiple Attempts if Necessary

• Retake the GMAT Exam: If your first GMAT attempt falls short of your target, consider whether to retake the GMAT.
• Retake the Test: Understand the pros and cons of retaking the GMAT and plan a strategy for retaking, including additional time and resources.
• GMAT Retake Strategy Steps: Follow a structured 5-step GMAT retake strategy to ensure you improve on your last GMAT score. Learn tips and tricks on how to score a 750 in the GMAT and secure admission to a top institution.

By following these steps, you can effectively prepare for the GMAT, whether it’s your first attempt or a retake, and increase your chances of getting into a top business school.

Time you need to prepare for the GMAT retake

The time required to prepare for a GMAT retake varies depending on your initial performance and target score. On average, candidates should allocate 2-3 months for comprehensive preparation. Learn from previous test-takers and follow the best way to prepare for the GMAT in 2 months .

 This period allows you to review and strengthen weak areas, practice with GMAT prep mock tests, and refine your test-taking strategies. It’s crucial to create a structured study plan, dedicating consistent daily or weekly hours to GMAT preparation.

Utilize resources such as the official GMAT guide, online courses, and study groups to enhance your preparation. Regular practice tests can help gauge your progress and adjust your study plan accordingly.

Conclusion

GMAT is a computer adaptive test. By following a structured GMAT retake strategy, you can improve your performance and achieve your target score. Remember to reassess your study plan, focus on practice tests, enhance your test-taking strategies, plan for multiple attempts if necessary, and utilize additional resources. With dedication and the right approach, you can succeed in retaking the GMAT and reach your MBA goals.

Transform your GMAT preparation with Ambitio’s expert guidance. Our comprehensive approach includes personalized study plans, adaptive practice tests, and strategic insights, all designed to enhance your understanding and performance across the exam’s quantitative and verbal sections.

FAQs