One of the most common questions I get from MBA applicants is: “Should I retake the GMAT/ GRE?”
The answer depends on your target schools, your overall profile, whether you can improve your score, and by how much.
Decision Framework
To make this decision easier, I’ve put together a decision tree (see image). It helps you evaluate where you stand and whether a retake is the right move.
- If your score is already competitive for your target schools (for Indian applicants, this often means 10-20+ points above the published average), focus on strengthening the rest of your application: essays, CV, and overall narrative.
- But if your score is below average and you see room for improvement, a retake might be worth it.
- If you’ve already given your best effort across multiple attempts but aren’t seeing significant improvement, consider switching from GMAT to GRE, or vice versa. Sometimes, a different test format aligns better with your strengths.
Keep in mind that this is a general framework, and admissions are holistic. In some cases, a strong profile: work experience, leadership, or unique achievements, can help compensate for a lower score.
This framework also assumes you have a broad range of target schools in mind. Your school list influences the score you need, just as your score shapes the schools you can realistically aim for. Both go hand in hand.
Conclusion: Trust the Process, Not the Panic
The decision to retake the GMAT or GRE is rarely about intelligence; it’s about strategy. If your numbers and circumstances align with a retake, go for it with confidence. But if you are chasing a mythical “perfect score” to compensate for insecurities, step back. Top MBA programs are building a cohort, not just a collection of test scores. They want leaders with stories, empathy, and grit attributes you can’t capture in a quant section.
Remember, a 600 with a compelling story often wins against a 700 with a generic essay. Balance your efforts.
FAQs
Q: Should I retake the GMAT or GRE if I’m an Indian applicant?
A: Yes, but with caution. Indian applicants fall into an overrepresented demographic. To stand out, you generally need to be 10-20 points above the published average of the school. If you are below that threshold and have room to improve, a retake is highly recommended.
Q: Is the GMAT harder than the GRE?
A: No. They are different. The GMAT is harder for those who struggle with time pressure and data analysis. The GRE is harder for those who struggle with vocabulary and flexible reasoning. Choose the test that plays to your strengths.
Q: How much can I improve if I retake the GMAT?
A: The average GMAT retaker improves by 30 points. Most of this improvement is seen on the very first retake. A focused 4-week study plan can yield a 40-50 point improvement.
Q: How much can I improve if I retake the GRE?
A: The average GRE retaker improves by 2-3 points per section (4-6 total). High performers with solid preparation can see up to an 8-10 point total jump.
Q: How many times can I take the GMAT?
A: You can take the GMAT once every 16 days, up to 5 times in a 12-month period, and a maximum of 8 times in your lifetime.
Q: How many times can I take the GRE?
A: You can take the GRE once every 21 days, up to 5 times in a rolling 12-month period. There is no lifetime limit for the GRE.
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