How Many Times GMAT Exam is Conducted in a Year? Your Exam Guide

Latest Update The previous limit of 8 GMAT attempts has been removed. You can take the exam any number of times, but you are limited to a maximum of 5 attempts within a rolling 12-month period.

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is available year-round, allowing you to schedule the exam on almost any day that suits your preparation. Each year, over 2 lakh candidates worldwide take the GMAT, and more than 70% of students rely heavily on GMAT scores to get into business schools.

Even with flexible exam dates, choosing the right time to take the GMAT matters. Your exam date can influence your score, application deadlines, and opportunities for retakes if needed. This blog will help you understand GMAT scheduling and make informed decisions to improve your chances of admission to top universities.

How Many Times GMAT Exam is Conducted in a Year? An Overview

The GMAT exam dates are offered year-round with no fixed schedules, allowing you to book your exam on almost any day throughout the year across test centers. This flexibility in GMAT registration allows MBA aspirants to plan their preparation and application timelines more effectively. 

Over 70% of students become eligible for GMAT exam slots by choosing dates that fit their schedule, reducing stress and improving performance.

Here's a brief overview of how many times GMAT exam is conducted in a year:

Criteria	Details
Test Frequency	Available 7 days a week at test centers and online.
Number of Attempts	Unlimited attempts. Up to 5 attempts in any rolling 12-month period
Retake Policy	Minimum 16 days between attempts
Score Validity	5 years
Peak Testing Period	August to October
Rescheduling	Up to 24 hours before the scheduled test

Also Read: How to Prepare for GMAT Exam: Strategy, Study Plan & Expert Tips

Having explored how many times GMAT exam is conducted in a year, let's now examine the upcoming exam dates and the frequency of test sessions available.

GMAT Exam Dates and Frequency of the Test

GMAT exams are offered every day of the year, both online and at test centers, allowing you to pick dates that suit your GMAT preparation. Candidates who schedule their exam at least two months in advance score on average 10 points higher. Early scheduling also ensures you have time to retake the test if needed before application deadlines.

Below are the upcoming GMAT exam dates and frequency of the test:

Examination Month	Upcoming Exam Date
June 2025	All Days
July 2025	All Days
August 2025	All Days
September 2025	All Days
October 2025	All Days
November 2025	All Days
December 2025	All Days

Now that you know the important dates for scheduling and taking the GMAT exam, it’s equally important to understand the updated fee structure. 

With the launch of the GMAT Focus Edition, both the exam format and fees have changed. Let’s take a look at the current GMAT exam fees:

Purpose	GMAT at Test Center	GMAT Online
Exam fee	$275 (INR 23.4K)	$300 (INR 25.6K)
Additional score report	$35 (INR 3K) each	$35 (INR 3K) each
Rescheduling the exam 60 days before appointment	$55 (INR 4.7K)	$60 (INR 5.1K)
Rescheduling 15–60 days before appointment	$110 (INR 9.3K)	$120 (INR 10.2K)
Rescheduling 14 days or less before appointment	$165 (INR 14K)	$180 (INR 15.3K)
Cancelling exam 60 days before appointment	$110 (INR 9.3K) refund	$120 (INR 10.2K) refund
Cancelling 15-60 days before appointment	$80 (INR 6.8K) refund	$90 (INR 7.6K) refund
Cancelling 14 days or less before appointment	$55 (INR 4.7K) refund	$60 (INR 5.1K) refund

Also Read: GRE to GMAT Score Conversion

Note: The currency conversion is based on current exchange rates.

After gaining a brief understanding of the GMAT exam dates and test frequency, let’s now focus on the number of attempts allowed.

GMAT Exam: Restriction on Attempts 

GMAT exam attempt restrictions are in place to ensure fairness and prevent score inflation among test-takers. These limits also help you avoid burnout by encouraging enough preparation time between attempts. 

You can take the GMAT for an unlimited number of times over your lifetime, with at least 16 calendar days required between each attempt. Additionally, you cannot retake the exam before your previous GMAT score is released. Other than that, there are no restrictions on eligibility. 

Here is the breakdown of GMAT exam limits and exam intervals:

Limit on Attempts

There is no lifetime limit on how many times you can take the GMAT, but according to the GMAT exam pattern, you can attempt it only five times within a rolling 12-month period. You cannot retake the exam before the score for your previous attempt is released.

The table contains the details on attempts for GMAT exam:

Attempt Rule	Details
Lifetime Attempts	Unlimited
Maximum attempts per 12 months	5
Retake before score release	Not allowed

Apart from the number of attempts, there are also restrictions on the interval between exams. Let's take a closer look at the details.

Limit on Interval of Exam

GMAT requires a minimum gap of 16 calendar days between attempts to give you sufficient time for GMAT preparation. If you miss a scheduled exam without rescheduling, it will count as an attempt. 

Below are the limits on the exam interval, depending on the GMAT exam dates and frequency of the test:

Exam Interval	Details
Minimum gap between attempts	16 calendar days
Missed exam without rescheduling	Counts as attempt

Also Read: AWA GMAT - Key Things Worth Knowing

With restrictions on attempts and exam intervals, you can better plan your exam strategy. Now, let’s explore how to choose the right time for your exam.

How to Choose the Right Time for Your GMAT Exam?

Choosing the right time for your GMAT exam helps you balance preparation with application deadlines, preventing last-minute pressure. Research shows that test-takers who schedule exams outside peak months, such as avoiding August to October, often find more availability and better focus. 

Timing your exam strategically can also give you room for a retake if needed, increasing your chances of a higher score. Generally, the period between April and June is the best time of the year for the GMAT test, as most MBA programs have early deadlines in September or October.

Here's how you can choose the right time for your GMAT exam:

• MBA School Deadlines

Plan your GMAT date based on your target schools' application deadlines to avoid last-minute rushes or missed submissions.

Example: For example, if Harvard's deadline is early September, plan to take your GMAT by June or July to ensure your scores arrive on time and leave room for a retake if needed.

• Preparation Levels

Be realistic about your current readiness and schedule your exam only when you consistently hit or near your target score in practice tests.

Example: If your mock tests average 580 but your target is to score 700, give yourself 3-4 months to study before booking. Taking the exam too early without sufficient prep can hurt your chances.

• Retake Strategy

Give yourself enough time before application deadlines to retake the exam if your first score is below expectations.

Example: Take your first test four months before applications, so you can retake it after the mandatory 16-day gap if needed.

• Visa or Scholarship Applications

Consider student visa processing and GMAT scholarship deadlines when choosing your exam date to avoid delays in your admission process.

Example: If your student visa process starts 2 months before program start, complete your GMAT at least 3 months prior to allow processing time.

• Available Study Time

Pick a test date during a period when you can dedicate focused and consistent study hours without major distractions.

Example: Avoid scheduling during work-heavy months or exams; instead, pick a period like summer break or a planned leave for focused preparation.

Once you decide on your GMAT exam date, you need to follow specific steps to book your slot. The registration process typically involves creating an account on the official GMAT website and selecting your preferred test date and location.

Here are the steps involved in registering for the GMAT exam:

• Step 1: Creating Account: Sign up on the official GMAT website (mba.com) using your email and basic information.
• Step 2: Select Test Format: Choose whether you want to take the exam online or at a test center.
• Step 3: Choose Exam Date and Location: Pick your preferred date and testing location based on availability.
• Step 4: Enter Personal Details: Provide accurate personal information and upload the required identification documents.
• Step 5: Make Payment: Pay the exam fee using a valid credit or debit card.
• Step 6: Confirm Booking: Review all details and confirm your registration; save the confirmation for reference.

You can reschedule your GMAT test up to 24 hours before your exam date. If necessary, you can also cancel your test, but be aware of any applicable fees and refund policies. Also, remember that GMAT exam scores are valid for five years.

Here's how you can cancel or reschedule your GMAT test:

• Step 1: Log In: Go to mba.com and sign in with your username and password.
• Step 2: Locate Exam: In your dashboard, click on “My Appointments” or “Scheduled Tests” to see your upcoming GMAT exam.
• Step 3: Choose Action: Click the “Reschedule” or “Cancel” button next to your test date.
• Step 4: Complete Process: If rescheduling, select a new test date and confirm. If cancelling, confirm your cancellation and review any applicable fees. Make payment if required to finalize changes.

Before you decide to reschedule or cancel your GMAT exam, it's important to understand the timing, fees, and policies involved. Planning ahead can help you avoid unnecessary charges and secure a test date that fits your preparation.

Here are some tips to cancel or reschedule your GMAT exams:

GMAT Exam Rescheduling Tips:

• Reschedule at least a week in advance to minimize fees.
• Always confirm your new test date immediately after rescheduling.
• Check test center availability early, especially during peak seasons.
• Keep a backup plan in case your preferred date fills up quickly.

GMAT Exam Cancellation Tips:

• Cancel more than 60 days before your exam for the highest refund.
• Be aware that cancellations within 14 days of the exam may have minimal or no refund.
• Consider cancelling only if you cannot take the exam or need to avoid a no-show penalty.
• Review refund policies carefully on the official GMAT site before proceeding.

Also Read: GMAT Score Validity: Everything You Need to Know Before Applying to B-Schools

After determining the right exam time based on how many times the GMAT exam is conducted in a year, let’s explore some strategies for your retake attempt.

GMAT Retake Strategy: How to Plan Your Next Attempt

Planning a retake strategy is crucial to improve your score after the GMAT results. Without a clear plan, you risk rushing into the exam unprepared or missing application deadlines. Studies show that candidates who approach retakes strategically can increase their scores by an average of 30 points. 

A strong retake plan involves analyzing your previous score report to identify weak areas and scheduling your exam to allow enough study time before the next attempt.

Below are some strategies for retaking the GMAT based on exam dates and test frequency:

• Analyze Your Previous GMAT Score
  Review your score report carefully to see which sections in the GMAT syllabus lowered your overall score. Focus on question types where you scored below your goal.

Example: If your verbal score is 550 but your target is 650, spend extra time improving reading comprehension and critical reasoning.

• Identify Key Areas for Improvement
  Pinpoint the exact topics or question formats that gave you trouble instead of studying broadly. This makes your preparation more efficient.

Example: If you struggle with data sufficiency questions, dedicate practice sessions solely to that area until you improve.

• Set Clear and Realistic Goals
  Based on your target schools' requirements and your current level, decide how many points you want to improve. Then, set weekly study milestones.

Example: Aim to increase your quant score by 40 points over 8 weeks by completing 5 practice tests and reviewing errors weekly.

• Develop a Focused Study Plan
  Create a study schedule that allocates more time to your weakest sections while maintaining strengths in others. Include regular mock exams.

Example: Spend 3 days a week on quantitative, 2 days on verbal, and every Sunday taking a timed practice test.

• Choose the Best Study Resources
  Select study materials and courses tailored to your weak areas and learning style rather than using everything at once.

Example: Use the Official GMAT Guide for practice questions and supplement with targeted online courses on verbal reasoning.

• Schedule Your Retake Date Wisely
  Pick a test date that gives you enough time to improve but also fits your application deadlines. Avoid rushing into a retake too soon.

Example: If your application deadline is November 1, schedule your retake in July or August to leave room for a second retake if needed.

These strategies will help you improve your score on the retake exam, increasing your chances of admission to your target schools. Now, let's explore how you can benefit from upGrad's professional guidance.

How Can upGrad Guide You with Your GMAT Exam Strategy?

The GMAT exam is one of the most challenging tests, involving complex reading, critical thinking, and strategic planning. Success requires careful preparation, smart scheduling, and understanding when to retake or send scores. In this journey, upGrad can be a reliable partner.

upGrad helps you create a personalized GMAT study schedule tailored to your strengths and weaknesses. You get guidance on test preparation, retake timing, and managing score reports to make your application stand out. With this support, you can approach the GMAT confidently and improve your chances of admission to top business schools.

Want to start preparing for the GMAT but don't know where to begin? Book a free 1:1 counseling session with an upGrad expert to receive a tailored study plan, targeted practice strategies, and guidance on exam timing to boost your score. Start today!