When Does It Make Sense to Retake the GMAT?

Experts say B-school applicants who are unsatisfied with their current GMAT score and are convinced they can do better often benefit from a retake.

"Data from GMAC shows that repeat testing can provide an opportunity for score improvement," wrote Gregg Schoenfeld, senior director of research and data science at GMAC, in an email. Schoenfeld says three-quarters of GMAT test-takers improved their score when they repeated the test, with an average score bump of 30 to 40 points. He adds that 55% of test-takers who already had a GMAT score of 700 or higher when they retook the exam increased their score.

Nervousness or inadequate test preparation could explain why the score is not as high as expected on the first try, experts suggest.

"Sometimes just having sat through the exam once, learned the procedure and how it feels, will be enough to help a second time," Alexander Lowry, a professor of finance at Gordon College and executive director of the school's Master of Science in Financial Analysis program, said via email.

Lowry adds that the computer-adaptive aspect of the GMAT can be formidable, because even test-takers who are performing well may struggle with the material. "So if you're taking the exam a second time, you’ll know to expect that and it won't throw you off," he says.

Blackman says students should aim to achieve whatever score fully reflects their abilities. "Applicants almost always know whether a test score is an accurate reflection of their aptitude versus an over- or underperformance," she says. "Put your best foot forward, even if it means a retake to better align the score with one's potential and previous diagnostic exams."