A GMAT score remains valid for five years from the test date and can be used for applications during this period. After five years, the score expires and cannot be reported or accepted for admissions, even though old records may still be accessible.
This rule applies to both the GMAT and the GMAT Focus Edition, and universities cannot make exceptions, ensuring that applicants are assessed on current skills.
How Long Are GMAT Scores Valid?
The GMAT score is valid for five years from the date you take the test. This means business schools will accept your GMAT results for up to 5 years after your exam date.
The 5-year period is calculated from the day you take the GMAT, not from the date you submit your score to schools. After this period, the score expires and cannot be reported to any business school.
GMAT Terms and Duration
Term
Meaning
Duration
Score Validity
Period when your score is officially accepted by schools
5 years
Score Availability
Period during which you can access your score report online
Up to 10 years
GMAT Score Validity Example:
Let us understand the GMAT score validity with the help of an example:
GMAT Test Date
Score Expiry Date
Notes
Jan 2022
Jan 2027
Score valid for 5 years
Sep 2023
Sep 2028
Can be sent to schools before expiry
May 2024
May 2029
Valid for applications within this period
Understanding these terms and the 5-year rule helps you plan when to take the GMAT, decide on retakes if needed, and ensure your scores remain valid for your target MBA program deadlines.
Understanding GMAT score validity is crucial for planning your MBA or business school applications. Since GMAT scores are valid for five years, knowing this helps you schedule your test and any potential retakes effectively.
Key points to consider:
Impact on Applications: Business schools require valid GMAT scores to assess your readiness. Submitting a score close to expiry may raise questions about your current skills, so ensure your scores are within the valid period.
Recent vs. Older Scores: Admissions committees often prefer recent scores (2–3 years old), as they better reflect current abilities. While scores up to 5 years old are accepted, older scores may be considered less indicative of your potential.
Retake Strategy: If your score is nearing expiry or doesn’t meet your target schools’ requirements, plan a retake strategically. Allow enough preparation time and ensure the new score will remain valid when submitting applications.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can maximize the effectiveness of your GMAT score and maintain a competitive edge without unnecessary retakes.
Knowing when your GMAT score expires is crucial to planning your MBA applications. Fortunately, checking your score validity is straightforward through the official GMAT website.
Step-by-Step Guide to Check GMAT Score Expiry
Log in to your GMAT account on mba.com.
Navigate to the “Scores” or “My GMAT Scores” section.
Find the test date and note the score validity period, all scores are valid for 5 years from the test date.
Verify which scores have expired and which are still eligible to be sent to schools.
By regularly checking your score expiry, you ensure that all GMAT scores submitted to schools are valid, preventing delays or complications in the application process.
While GMAT scores cannot be extended beyond the official 5-year validity, there are options to manage your scores effectively if needed. Understanding these rules helps you plan your applications and avoid last-minute issues.
Score Reactivation
If you canceled your GMAT score immediately after taking the test, you can reinstate it within 60 days of the test date.
Reactivated scores retain their original test date, meaning the 5-year validity starts from the original exam date.
Score Expiry and Limitations
Once a GMAT score exceeds the 5-year validity, it cannot be reactivated or reported to business schools.
Schools will only accept scores within the valid 5-year period, so expired scores must be disregarded.
By knowing these rules, you can strategically manage your GMAT scores, decide when a retake is necessary, and ensure your applications remain competitive.
Tips for Planning Your GMAT Exam Around Score Validity
Strategically planning your GMAT test around its 5-year validity ensures your scores remain valid for business school applications and reduces the need for unnecessary retakes. Here are practical tips to help you:
Schedule Your Test Early: Take the GMAT well ahead of application deadlines to allow time for retakes if needed.
Track Score Expiry Dates: Maintain a record of your test date and score validity to avoid submitting expired scores.
Consider Retake Timing: If your score is nearing expiry or doesn’t meet target schools’ requirements, plan a retake with enough preparation time.
Align with Application Cycles: Ensure your GMAT score remains valid throughout the entire admission cycle for your preferred schools.
Use Score Reports Wisely: Only send valid scores to schools and consider sending the best score if you have multiple attempts within the 5-year period.
Avoid Unnecessary Retakes: Evaluate whether your existing score meets the cutoff for your target programs before scheduling another exam.
By following these tips, you can maximize the impact of your GMAT scores, stay organized, and strengthen your chances of admission without additional stress or costs.
Conclusion
Understanding GMAT score validity is essential for strategically planning your MBA or business school applications. Since GMAT scores are valid for five years, knowing when to take or retake the exam helps ensure your results align with application deadlines.
By keeping track of score expiry, considering the preference for recent scores, and planning retakes when necessary, you can maximize the impact of your GMAT scores.
Proper management of your scores not only avoids unnecessary retakes but also strengthens your application, improving your chances of admission and scholarship opportunities.
Learn everything about MBA abroad with this e-guide. Get to know about different types of MBA, the benefits of pursuing an MBA degree abroad, how to choose an MBA degree, top business school requirements, top MBA universities, scholarships, job prospects after an MBA abroad, and more.
Now, get answers to every MBA abroad-related question with this ebook.
Explore Free Guides
FAQs
Can I retake the GMAT if my score is still valid?
Yes, you can retake the GMAT at any point within the five-year validity period. Retaking allows you to improve your score while keeping your previous attempts on record. Schools usually consider your highest score when reviewing applications. Retakes are a strategic option if your current score is below your target.
Can I use GMAT scores from multiple test attempts?
Yes, schools allow multiple GMAT scores. You can choose to send either your highest score or all attempts. Strategically sending scores can highlight consistent performance while staying within the GMAT score validity period.
Do all business schools follow the 5-year GMAT validity rule?
Most accredited schools accept scores up to 5 years old. However, some programs may prefer scores taken within the last 2–3 years. Always check the GMAT score validity requirements of your target school before submitting.
How does GMAT score validity affect scholarship applications?
Merit-based scholarships often require recent GMAT scores to assess current aptitude. Older scores may still be valid, but could be less competitive for scholarship consideration. Using a valid and strong score maximizes your chances of securing financial aid.
Are there differences in how international schools treat GMAT score validity?
While the five-year validity is universal, some international programs may prefer scores less than three years old. Top US and European schools are strict about recency for highly competitive programs. Always check each school’s policy before planning your GMAT timeline.
Can GMAT scores be sent to multiple schools at different times?
Yes, you can send your GMAT scores to any number of schools within the five-year validity window. This flexibility is useful for applications with staggered deadlines or multiple rounds. Schools will receive the official score report directly from GMAC.
What if I have a gap year before applying to business school?
If your gap year extends beyond the score validity, you may need a retake to maintain eligibility. Planning your GMAT around your gap ensures your scores are valid when applications are submitted. This avoids unnecessary delays and stress.
Do executive or part-time MBA programs treat older scores differently?
Some executive and part-time MBA programs may accept scores that are slightly older than five years. These programs often value work experience alongside GMAT performance. Still, submitting a recent score strengthens your application and scholarship prospects.
Does GMAT score validity affect visa processes for international students?
Yes, expired GMAT scores can cause issues with admissions verification and may indirectly affect student visa processing. Schools and authorities require valid scores for official documentation. Ensuring your GMAT score is current avoids unnecessary complications.
Is there a difference between GMAT score validity and availability?
Yes. Score validity refers to the 5-year period during which schools accept your results, while score availability is up to 10 years, allowing you to access and review reports online but not send them to schools.
Where can I get official information about GMAT score validity?
The official source is GMAC / mba.com, which provides comprehensive guidelines on score validity, reporting, and access. Schools’ admissions pages also clarify how they treat older or multiple scores. Always refer to these sources to avoid misinformation.
Are expired GMAT scores visible on mba.com?
Yes, expired GMAT scores remain visible in your mba.com score history, but they cannot be reported to schools or used for applications. They serve only as a reference. Schools require valid scores within the five-year period to consider applicants for admissions and scholarships.
Can GMAT scores expire before 5 years?
No, GMAT scores remain officially valid for 5 years. They may only become unusable sooner if the score was canceled or invalidated due to testing irregularities. Knowing GMAT score is valid for how many years helps prevent surprises.
Does retaking the GMAT reset the validity period?
No, each test attempt has its own 5-year validity starting from the date of that exam. Retaking the GMAT gives a new score with a new 5-year validity, allowing flexibility for future applications.
Can schools see all my GMAT attempts?
Yes, schools can see all official scores sent. However, you can choose which scores to report. Using valid GMAT scores strategically can enhance your application without overwhelming admissions committees.
Are GMAT scores valid for non-MBA programs?
Yes, many business-related programs accept GMAT scores, including Master’s in Finance, Accounting, or Management. The GMAT score validity period still applies, so ensure scores are submitted within the 5-year window.
Do online GMAT prep courses consider score validity?
Prep courses often advise scheduling the GMAT within a timeframe where your GMAT score is valid for how many years aligns with application deadlines, maximizing the relevance of practice efforts and avoiding unnecessary retakes.
Are unofficial GMAT score reports considered valid?
No, only official GMAT score reports sent via the GMAT system count toward school applications. Understanding GMAT score validity ensures only recognized scores are submitted.
Can GMAT scores be transferred between test-takers?
No, GMAT scores are non-transferable. Each applicant must submit their own valid GMAT score, ensuring authenticity and adherence to the 5-year validity policy.
upGrad Abroad Editorial Team |4245 articles published
We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education ...
Download Your Free Copy Now
Refer Your Friend & Earn upto ₹15000
Help your friend upgrade to a Global Career and earn rewards together.
