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

Once you’ve taken the GMAT test, your score becomes an essential part of your application journey. But here’s the catch—GMAT scores don’t last forever.

The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) score is valid for five years from the date of your exam. This makes timing crucial, especially if you're planning to apply for an MBA later.

Knowing when they expire helps you avoid last-minute surprises, expired scores, or unnecessary retakes.

Whether you’re applying this year or gaining work experience first, understanding GMAT score validity ensures you plan your MBA roadmap with confidence.

This blog breaks down the validity period, retake rules, and what to do when your score expires.

What Is GMAT Score Validity? (Overview)

GMAT score validity means the period during which your GMAT score is considered valid and reportable by GMAC (Graduate Management Admission Council). Most business schools accept only valid scores during their admission evaluations.

Why GMAT Score Validity Matters:

• Defines your application window: Determines how long you can use a single test result.
• Affects admission cycles: If you apply too late, your score might expire before deadlines.
• Ensures up-to-date evaluation: Schools want recent results that reflect your current aptitude.

Understanding validity ensures you can confidently plan your preparation and application timelines without scrambling to retake the test.

How Long Is a GMAT Score Valid? (Valid Period)

Your GMAT score has a defined lifespan. As per GMAC, your GMAT score remains valid for exactly five years from the date you take the exam. This means you can apply to any school during this five-year period using your existing score.

Detailed Validity Timeline:

• Score Date: The date you take your test.
• Expiration Date: Five years later, on the same calendar day.
• Example: If you take the test on April 10, 2025, your score is valid until April 10, 2030.

What to Keep in Mind:

• Schools typically don't accept scores older than 5 years.
• Some competitive programs prefer scores not older than 2–3 years even within the validity period—check school-specific policies.
• GMAT scores are automatically removed from your GMAC account once they expire.

Pro Tip:

If you're unsure about when you’ll apply, taking the GMAT after you’ve shortlisted programs can help avoid unnecessary retakes.

Can You Retake the GMAT and Use an Older Score? (Retake Rules)

Many test-takers attempt the GMAT more than once. If your older GMAT score is still within the five-year validity period, you can absolutely use it—even if you’ve taken the test again since then. GMAC allows you to choose which score to send to schools.

GMAT Retake Policies:

• Number of Attempts:
  • Up to 5 times in a 12-month period.
  • Maximum 8 attempts in a lifetime.
• Minimum Gap Between Tests:
  • 16 days required between retakes.

Score Selection Rules:

• GMAT Enhanced Score Report lets you evaluate past scores in detail.
• When sending scores, you can choose any valid score from the last five years.
• Schools do not see other scores unless you send them.

Strategic Tips:

• If you scored higher in an earlier attempt, you can use that instead of a newer, lower score.
• Keep an eye on the expiration date to avoid last-minute panic during applications.

What Happens When Your Score Expires?

GMAT scores don’t last forever. Once your GMAT score crosses the five-year validity limit, it becomes unreportable and unusable for applications. Here’s what that means in practice:

Consequences of Expired GMAT Scores:

• No longer viewable on your GMAC account.
• Cannot be sent to schools as part of an application.
• Schools will reject any application that includes an expired score.

What You Need To Do:

• You’ll have to retake the GMAT and aim for a new valid score.
• Plan your retake early—GMAT dates fill up quickly, especially near major deadlines.
• Keep at least 6–12 months of cushion before the score expires if you plan to reapply or apply late.

Special Note:

If you have taken the GMAT but delayed your MBA plans for too long, you may lose the advantage of your strong score. It’s wise to build your long-term goals around the score’s lifecycle.

Can You Extend the Validity of Your GMAT Score?

Many students wonder if they can request an extension on their GMAT score’s validity. Unfortunately, GMAT score validity cannot be extended under any circumstances. GMAC maintains a strict five-year policy for all examinees.

No Exceptions Allowed:

• GMAC does not make accommodations for:
  • Health-related delays
  • Deferred admissions
  • Work experience gaps

What You Can Do Instead:

• Retake the GMAT and use updated study materials to improve your score.
• Apply within the 5-year window to avoid wasting your original attempt.
• Set reminders and milestones a year in advance of your score expiration.

Planning Tip:

If you’re within a year of score expiry, lock in your target schools and submit your applications as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Your GMAT score is more than just a number—it’s a passport to your MBA future, but only for a limited time.

Key Takeaways:

• GMAT scores are valid for five years—plan accordingly.
• You can retake the test and choose your best valid score to send.
• Expired scores are non-recoverable and non-extendable.
• Always check the score policies of your target business schools.
• Build your test and application timeline around your professional goals and target admission cycle.

By being aware of GMAT score validity, you can eliminate uncertainty and focus entirely on achieving your dream admission.