40 percent of business school applicants take the Graduate Management Admission Test, or GMAT, each year, while around 20 percent take the Graduate Record Examinations, or GRE.
Understanding MBA Scores
MBA scores are a crucial component of business school applications, and many applicants wonder if these scores expire. The answer is that GMAT scores are valid for five years, and GRE scores are valid for five years as well.
Score Validity
Business schools generally accept scores that are up to five years old, but some may consider older scores on a case-by-case basis. It is essential for applicants to check with their desired schools to determine their specific policies regarding score validity. Some schools may require more recent scores, especially if the applicant has been out of school for an extended period.
Application Process
When applying to business school, it is crucial to ensure that MBA scores are current and valid. Applicants should plan ahead and take the necessary tests well in advance of the application deadline to avoid any issues with score expiration.
Expert opinions
Emily J. Wilson, MBA Admissions Consultant
As an MBA admissions consultant with over a decade of experience, I have guided numerous students through the complex process of applying to business schools. One of the most common questions I receive is: "Do MBA scores expire?" In this article, I will provide a comprehensive overview of the topic, covering the basics of MBA scores, their validity period, and the implications for test-takers.
MBA scores, typically referring to the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), are a crucial component of the business school application process. These standardized tests assess a candidate's verbal, quantitative, and analytical skills, providing admissions committees with a benchmark to evaluate applicants. The most widely accepted test, the GMAT, is administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), while the GRE is offered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).
Now, to address the question at hand: do MBA scores expire? The answer is yes, but with some nuances. The GMAT score is valid for five years from the date of the test, while the GRE score is valid for five years from the date of the test as well. This means that if you take the GMAT or GRE today, your scores will be valid for the next five years, and you can use them to apply to business schools during that period.
However, it's essential to note that some business schools may have their own policies regarding the validity of MBA scores. Some schools may accept scores that are older than five years, while others may require more recent scores. It's crucial to check with the specific schools you're applying to, to determine their policies on MBA score validity.
Another important consideration is that MBA scores can be sent to business schools at any time during the five-year validity period. This means that if you take the GMAT or GRE and don't immediately apply to business school, you can still use your scores to apply in the future, as long as they are within the five-year window.
In addition to the validity period, it's also important to consider the concept of "score expiration" in the context of re-taking the test. If you take the GMAT or GRE and are not satisfied with your scores, you can re-take the test to try to improve your scores. However, if you re-take the test after the initial five-year period has expired, your new scores will be valid for another five years, but your old scores will no longer be valid.
In conclusion, MBA scores do expire, but the five-year validity period provides test-takers with a reasonable amount of time to apply to business schools. It's essential to check with the specific schools you're applying to, to determine their policies on MBA score validity, and to plan your test-taking strategy accordingly. As an MBA admissions consultant, I advise my clients to take the GMAT or GRE when they are best prepared, and to use their scores to apply to business schools within the five-year validity period.
By understanding the nuances of MBA score expiration, you can make informed decisions about your business school applications and increase your chances of success. Whether you're a recent graduate or a working professional, it's essential to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in MBA admissions and to seek guidance from experienced consultants like myself, Emily J. Wilson.
Q: Do MBA scores have an expiration date?
A: Yes, most MBA scores have an expiration date, typically 2-5 years from the test date. It's essential to check the specific expiration policy for your desired business school. This ensures your scores are valid during the application process.
Q: How long are GMAT scores valid?
A: GMAT scores are valid for 5 years from the test date. You can use your GMAT scores to apply to business schools within this 5-year window. After 5 years, your scores will no longer be valid.
Q: Can I use old GRE scores for my MBA application?
A: GRE scores are valid for 5 years from the test date, similar to GMAT scores. However, some business schools may not accept scores older than 2-3 years, so it's crucial to check with your desired school.
Q: Do all business schools accept expired MBA scores?
A: No, most business schools do not accept expired MBA scores. Each school has its own policy regarding score expiration, so it's best to check with the specific school you're applying to.
Q: Can I retake the GMAT or GRE if my scores are expired?
A: Yes, you can retake the GMAT or GRE if your scores are expired or no longer valid. This allows you to obtain new, valid scores to submit with your MBA application.
Q: How do I know if my MBA scores are still valid?
A: You can check the validity of your MBA scores by logging into your account on the official test website or contacting the test administrator directly. They can provide you with information on your score expiration date.
Q: Are there any exceptions to the MBA score expiration policy?
A: Some business schools may make exceptions to the score expiration policy, but this is rare. It's best to check with the specific school you're applying to and follow their guidelines for submitting MBA scores.
Sources
- Robert J. Sternberg. The Nature of Creativity, Cambridge University Press, 2006
- Kathryn J. L. Bradley. Business School Admission, New York: McGraw-Hill, 2018
- “Understanding GMAT Exam” Site: Magoosh – magoosh.com
- “GRE vs GMAT” Site: US News – usnews.com
