The short answer
GMAT scores are valid for five years from your test date (accessed 2026-08-07). That means you can sit the exam well before you apply and still send the score when your applications go in.
Why the window matters for timing
Five years is long enough to test on your own schedule rather than the admissions calendar's. If your quant is sharp now — say, right after a heavy math semester — it can be worth testing early and banking the score, instead of cramming again next year. Just make sure the score won't expire before your latest intended application round.
Sending scores within the window
While a score is valid, you send an Official Score Report to programs through your mba.com account (accessed 2026-08-07). Build the report and delivery time into your deadlines rather than sending on the final day.
One caveat on older scores
Five years is GMAC's validity rule, but individual programs can set their own preferences about how recent a score they want to see. If your score is approaching the edge of the window, check the program's admissions page before you rely on it.
Sources
Every source below was accessed on the listed date. Pages — especially department admissions pages — change without notice; the links go to the live versions.
- GMAT Exam Policies — GMAC. Accessed 2026-08-07.
- GMAT Focus Edition FAQs — GMAC. Accessed 2026-08-07.
- The GMAT Exam (GMAT Focus Edition) — GMAC. Accessed 2026-08-07.
Related guides
Sources and corrections
Sources last checked 2026-08-07Every source cited on this page was checked on the date shown, and we update the page when a source changes. If something looks wrong, tell us and we'll recheck it.