Should You Retake the GMAT? Strategy for Retaking the GMAT

The GMAT Focus Edition has introduced significant changes in its structure, making it a more streamlined and efficient test. But what happens when your GMAT score doesn’t meet your expectations? Should you retake it? This is a crucial decision, and this blog aims to help you make an informed choice by examining the pros and cons of retaking the GMAT, offering strategies, and guiding you on when and why to consider a second attempt.

Key Highlights:

• The fee for retaking the GMAT is USD 275 for the test center and USD 300 for the online exam.
• You can retake the GMAT up to five times in a rolling 12-month period and eight times in a lifetime.
• There must be a gap of at least 16 days between each GMAT attempt.
• Retaking the GMAT is recommended if you need to address weak areas, overcome test-day challenges, or achieve a score closer to your target school’s requirements.

Should You Retake the GMAT? 

It really depends. If you didn’t achieve your target score on the first attempt, the decision to retake the GMAT depends on several factors. Let’s look at the key reasons why you might consider a retake:

• Your Score is Below the Desired Range: If your score is significantly lower than the average score for your desired schools, retaking the exam could help you achieve a more competitive score.
• You Didn't Fully Prepare: If your first attempt didn’t reflect your true abilities due to insufficient preparation or lack of focus, a second attempt after better preparation could yield better results.
• Test Day Issues: Sometimes, unforeseen circumstances like illness, distractions, or personal issues can affect performance. If you believe this was the case for you, retaking the exam could offer a fresh start.

However, retaking the GMAT may not always be necessary. If you’ve already achieved a score within your target school’s average range, it might be more beneficial to focus on other areas of your application instead.

Retaking the GMAT? Join Yocket Prep for personalised strategies to boost your score!

Who Can Retake the GMAT Exam?

Generally, anyone who has previously taken the GMAT exam can retake it. However, there are a few important points to keep in mind:

• No Restrictions Based on Age or Experience: Unlike some other professional exams, there are no restrictions based on age or work experience to retake the GMAT.
• GMAT Attempt Limits: You can take the GMAT up to five times within a 12-month period. This means you have the opportunity to improve your score over time.
• Minimum Gap Between Attempts: You must wait at least 16 days before retaking the GMAT. This ensures you have enough time to prepare and improve your performance.

If you feel that your initial score doesn’t represent your true abilities, a retake could be a valuable opportunity.

When Should You Retake the GMAT?

You should retake the GMAT if you believe that better preparation can lead to a significantly improved score.

Retaking the GMAT should be considered only after careful thought and preparation. Here are some situations when retaking might be the right choice:

• When You’ve Identified Weak Areas: If your initial score reflects weaknesses in certain areas, such as Quantitative or Verbal Reasoning, and you feel confident that you can improve with focused preparation, then retaking the exam may be a good option.
• When Your Score is Far Below Your Target: If your score is significantly lower than what’s needed for your dream school, retaking the GMAT can increase your chances of admission.
• When You Have Enough Time to Prepare: A retake requires careful planning and sufficient preparation. Ensure that you have enough time to dedicate to your study plan before scheduling another exam.

GMAT Retake Strategies for Your Next Attempt

Successfully retaking the GMAT requires a well-thought-out plan that increases your chances of improving your score. To ensure you're better prepared for the second attempt, you should consider refining your strategies and adopting a more focused approach. Below are some in-depth strategies to guide you in your preparation:

Strategy 1: Target Score Preparation Method

When you're preparing for a GMAT retake, the first and most important step is to identify the score gap—the difference between your current score and your target score. This analysis should be detailed and methodical to help you focus your preparation efforts where they will be most effective.

After establishing your goal, calculate the exact score difference you need to cover. The score gap is not merely a number, it represents the effort required in terms of focused study time and practice. This gap will guide your preparation strategy, helping you understand the amount of work you’ll need to put into each area. Finally, plan your timeline accordingly. Choose a retake GMAT date that gives you enough time to address your weaknesses, but also avoid waiting too long and risking burnout.

Strategy 2: Area-Wise Focused Preparation

After analysing your performance from the first attempt, you will have a clearer understanding of where your strengths and weaknesses lie. The next step is to develop a focused approach to improve in specific areas while maintaining your strengths.

Review your official GMAT score report carefully to understand which sections were particularly challenging. For example, if you scored lower in the Quantitative section, it’s important to identify whether the issue was conceptual or related to time management. However, if you performed well in certain sections, it’s crucial to maintain or further improve that performance. Avoid neglecting these areas in favor of your weaknesses. By maintaining your strengths, you ensure that your overall score doesn’t drop in those sections. An objective, data-driven approach will prevent you from wasting time on areas that don't need improvement, allowing you to focus on the sections that will make the biggest difference.

Strategy 3: Timesheet Preparation Method

Start by calculating how much time you have available before your retake. Factor in your other commitments, and realistically assess how many hours you can devote to GMAT preparation each week. Once you have an accurate understanding of your available time, prioritise the areas where you need the most improvement. If you found the Quantitative section more challenging, allocate extra time for quantitative practice, but don't neglect the verbal section entirely.

Next, create a weekly timetable that breaks your preparation into manageable tasks. For example, you could designate specific days for each section: Monday could focus on Quantitative reasoning, Wednesday on verbal practice, and Friday on Integrated Reasoning. A weekly schedule ensures that you cover all sections regularly and helps prevent you from neglecting any area of the test.

Strategy 4: Track Your Progress Method

Consistency is crucial in your GMAT preparation, but it’s equally important that your consistency is productive. Regularly tracking your progress is key to ensuring that your efforts are moving you closer to your target score. Taking full-length mock tests is an essential part of the progress-tracking process. 

Aim to take a mock test each week to simulate the exam conditions and assess your stamina. After each test, not only review your total score but also dive into section-wise performance. Tracking your progress over time not only helps identify areas for improvement but also provides motivation as you see tangible results from your effort.

Strategy 5: Daily Debrief

Taking time for self-reflection after each study session is a powerful way to ensure your preparation stays on track. A daily debrief helps you evaluate what worked well and what needs further adjustment. At the end of each study day, review your performance. Did you stick to your timetable? What areas felt challenging? This reflection allows you to identify areas where you may need more practice the following day. 

Track small wins, such as improving your time management on a practice test or solving a tricky verbal question correctly. These small wins provide motivation and reinforce the progress you're making.. Being adaptable in your approach is crucial to maintaining momentum throughout your preparation. Regular self-evaluation will help you stay aligned with your goals and ensure that each day’s study session is productive.

GMAT Retake Policy

The GMAT retake policy allows candidates to take the test up to five times in one year and up to eight times in their lifetime. However, it is important to note that after each attempt, a minimum of 16 days must pass before retaking the exam. Be sure to plan your retake in advance and ensure that you're fully prepared for the second attempt.

GMAT Fee for Retaking the Test

The fee for retaking the GMAT Focus Edition is USD 275 for a test centre-based exam, and USD 300 for an online exam. This fee covers the administration of the exam, but additional costs may apply if you decide to invest in extra study materials or coaching. Many candidates also opt for GMAT prep courses or study guides, which will incur extra expenses. It’s crucial to factor these additional costs into your budget when planning your GMAT retake.

Retaking the GMAT can be an excellent opportunity to improve your score and strengthen your application, but it requires careful planning and dedication. By following a targeted strategy, tracking your progress, and adjusting your approach, you can significantly improve your performance and maximise your chances of success.

Factors to Consider When You're Retaking the GMAT

Before deciding to retake the GMAT, it's essential to weigh several factors that will determine the success of your second attempt. Retaking the exam isn't just about sitting for another test; it requires thoughtful planning and a strategic approach to ensure a better outcome. Consider the following points carefully to assess whether a retake is the right move and how to maximise your chances of success:

• Your Previous Score: Analyse your first attempt to see where you need improvement.
• Time Available for Preparation: Consider your schedule and make sure you have enough time to focus on weaker areas.
• Financial Implications: Be mindful of the costs involved in retaking the GMAT, including registration fees and potential coaching.
• Program Deadlines: Align your retake with application deadlines to ensure your new score reaches schools on time.
• Retake Strategy: Evaluate the retake strategies that worked or didn’t work for you previously, and adjust your plan accordingly.

Is Retaking the GMAT Worth It?

Retaking the GMAT can offer numerous advantages, especially if you're looking to improve your application:

• Higher Score: A better score increases your chances of admission to top-tier business schools. Schools often look for a score that aligns with their average GMAT scores, so improving your score could enhance your candidacy.
• Increased Confidence: A retake allows you to enter your application cycle with confidence, knowing that you gave your best effort and have achieved a score that better reflects your capabilities.
• Increased Opportunities: A higher GMAT score opens doors to more GMAT scholarships and may increase your chances of being accepted into competitive programmes.
• Refined test-taking Skills: With more exposure to the GMAT format and practice under test conditions, you can refine your approach to the exam, leading to improved performance.

From the Desk of Yocket

Retaking the GMAT Focus Edition is a decision that requires careful consideration, time, and effort. However, it’s also an opportunity to improve your score and your chances of admission to top business schools. By following the right strategies, you can make the most of your second attempt and achieve your desired score. Yocket Prep’s resources, including expert guidance and study materials, can provide the support you need to succeed in your retake.