Cancelling/Retaking the GMAT

The GMAT is somewhat unique in that the test taker is given the opportunity to cancel their score on the same day they write the test. The decision to cancel a score is definitely not something that should be taken lightly. If a test taker does decide to cancel their score, they will not receive a refund of their test writing fee. In addition, the decision to cancel the score will remain on the individual’s permanent test score record, so any schools that receive future scores will also be informed of the decision to cancel a previous score. Finally, at least 31 days must pass before the test can be written again.

In some cases, however, it may be a good idea for an individual to make the decision to cancel a score. Most people will have a strong feeling after writing the test as to whether they have performed well. If it is felt by the person that their score will most likely be very low, it may be a good idea to cancel the score. If all test questions could not be completed in the allotted time, the test score will be reduced significantly, so having a large number of test questions that went unanswered may also be a reason to cancel the score.

Poor performance on the GMAT may have happened because of anxiety, or the individual may have found that they were not as prepared as they should have been. Either way, the test can be rewritten, and having a cancelled score may be looked upon more favorably by admissions committees than a very low one. It should be kept in mind that the scores must be cancelled immediately after completing the test. The individual may not decide to cancel a score after viewing their test results.

In addition to being able to cancel GMAT scores on the day the test is written, individuals are also able to retake the GMAT. This is usually done in an effort to obtain a higher score, and business schools that are specifically designated by the test taker will receive a copy of the latest test results. There are a few basic rules when it comes to rewriting the GMAT. Firstly, the test can not be rewritten until at least 31 days have passed since the test was first taken. In addition, the exam can not be written more than five times in a one year period, which is one reason why adequate preparation for the important test is essential.