How Many Times Can You Take the GRE and When to Retake It?
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a crucial test for admission to graduate programs worldwide. Many students wonder: How many times can I take the GRE? and When should I retake it? Understanding the GRE retake policies and knowing when to take the test again can help maximize your score and improve your chances of admission.
1. How Many Times Can You Take the GRE?
ETS (Educational Testing Service), the official administrator of the GRE, has set specific rules regarding retakes:
✅ Up to 5 times in a rolling 12-month period.
✅ At least 21 days between two attempts.
✅ No lifetime limit—you can take the GRE as many times as needed.
| Attempt | Earliest You Can Retake |
|---|---|
| 1st Attempt | Anytime |
| 2nd Attempt | 21 days after the first test |
| 3rd Attempt | 21 days after the second test |
| 4th Attempt | 21 days after the third test |
| 5th Attempt | 21 days after the fourth test |
| 6th Attempt | Next 12-month cycle |
2. Should You Retake the GRE? Key Factors to Consider
Before deciding to retake the GRE, ask yourself these questions:
a) Did You Score Below Your Target?
- Research your target universities’ GRE score requirements.
- If your score is below the 50th percentile, consider a retake.
b) Did You Make Avoidable Mistakes?
- If you mismanaged time or made careless errors, a retake can improve your score.
- Tip: Take a practice test and analyze your weak areas.
c) Did You Prepare Enough Before Your First Attempt?
- If your first attempt was rushed, consider a focused 4-8 week study plan before retaking.
- Tip: Strengthen your weaker sections instead of revising everything.
d) Will a Higher Score Significantly Improve Your Application?
- If your current score meets your target, retaking may not be necessary.
- However, if a 5-10 point increase in your score strengthens your application, it’s worth another try.
3. How to Improve Before Your GRE Retake
| Strategy | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Analyze Your Score Report | Identify weak areas and focus on improving them. |
| Take More Full-Length Practice Tests | Simulate real test conditions to improve timing and accuracy. |
| Work on Your Weakest Section First | Prioritize Verbal, Quant, or AWA based on your needs. |
| Use Advanced Study Materials | Focus on harder questions and test-taking strategies. |
| Maintain a Study Schedule | Stick to a structured plan leading up to your next attempt. |
4. How Soon Should You Retake the GRE?
The ideal retake timing depends on how much you need to improve:
| Score Improvement Needed | Suggested Retake Timeline |
|---|---|
| 1-5 points | Retake within 3-4 weeks |
| 6-10 points | Retake within 6-8 weeks |
| 10+ points | Retake after 2-3 months with intensive preparation |
Pro Tip: Don’t rush your retake. Take enough time to address your weaknesses before attempting the test again.
5. What If Your Score Doesn’t Improve?
If multiple attempts don’t yield better results:
- Reevaluate your preparation strategy. Try different resources or coaching.
- Consider GRE-optional universities. Some programs don’t require GRE scores.
- Strengthen other application components. Focus on your SOP, LORs, and resume.
6. Conclusion
Taking the GRE multiple times is completely acceptable, but strategic planning is essential. If you feel you can significantly improve your score, a retake is a good option. However, don’t just take the GRE again without a focused improvement plan.
Need expert guidance for your GRE retake? MKS Education provides personalized coaching, targeted strategies, and full-length practice tests to help you achieve your dream GRE score! Contact us today to start your preparation.