You can take the GMAT a maximum of five times within any rolling 12-month period. Additionally, there is a lifetime limit of eight total attempts. These policies, set by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), are strict and apply globally to all test-takers.
Critical rules governing how many times you can take the GMAT include:
- 12-Month Rolling Window: Your five allowed attempts are counted backward from any given date, not by calendar year.
- Mandatory Waiting Period: A 16-calendar-day interval is required between consecutive exam sittings.
- Cancelled Scores Count: Any appointment where you sit for the exam, even if you later cancel your score, contributes to your attempt limits.
Therefore, while the lifetime limit provides multiple opportunities, strategic planning is essential. You cannot treat the GMAT as a frequent practice tool. Understanding how many times you can take the GMAT should inform a disciplined preparation schedule, ensuring each attempt is a serious effort toward achieving your target score.