GMAT Score Cancellation and Its Implications: A Comprehensive Guide
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) score cancellation is a process that allows test-takers to opts out of reporting their scores. Whether you decide to cancel your scores on the test day or within a specific timeframe after the exam, knowing the process and implications can be crucial. Here's a detailed guide on how to cancel your GMAT scores and what to consider post-cancellation.
Can You Cancel Your GMAT Scores?
Yes, it is absolutely possible to cancel your GMAT scores. There are two primary methods to do this:
Cancellation on Test Day
At the Exam Center: Upon completing your GMAT exam, if you decide that your performance was not up to the mark, you can immediately cancel your scores. Specifically, you have to confirm this within 2 minutes of your scores being displayed on the screen excluding the AWA section. This cancellation is free of cost, and you won't receive a hardcopy of your unofficial scores from the test center.
Cancellation after Test Day
Within 72 Hours from Test Completion: If you did not cancel your scores at the exam center, you still have the opportunity to do so within 72 hours post-examination. Log into your GMCAT (Graduate Management Admissions Council) account and navigate to the 'My GMAT' section to find your appointment number and proceed to cancel your scores. Be aware that this process incurs a fee of $25.
What Happens After Cancellation?
Once your scores are cancelled, they cannot be reinstated. If you're uncertain about your performance, it might be advisable to wait for a few days to review your scores. However, some test-takers prefer to see a detailed analysis of their performance to identify areas of improvement. This can be achieved through the ESR (Exam Score Report) analysis.
How to Obtain an ESR Analysis
To request an ESR, you need to pay $30, and upon payment, you will receive an ESR code via email. Apply this code to retrieve a detailed PDF document that analyzes your performance. The report provides a section-wise breakdown of your strengths and weaknesses and offers insights into time management.
Reinstating Canceled Scores
It's also possible to reinstate the cancellation and report your scores at a later stage. This can be done by accessing your account on the official GMAT Exam Website. Use your appointment number to locate the cancelled score and reinstate it. If scores from three sections (IR, Verbal, Quantitative) are already available, only the AWA section will be submitted for evaluation, and you will receive all four section scores within a week.
Implications of Cancelled Scores in Applications
When a score is cancelled, it is not reported to any institutions. However, if you decide to proceed with a university application and need to report your GMAT score unofficially, you can generate a PDF from your GMAT account. This document will show all attempts, including cancelled scores, but the cancelled scores will be indicated with a 'C' and not reported to the institution.
Additional Tips from Industry Experts
Professionals in the GMAT preparation space, such as Paula Sanders, have shared several valuable insights. Here are some top tips:
Technical and Conceptual Mastery
1. Learn the Tested Concepts: Understand the fundamental concepts tested in the GMAT, such as circle properties, divisibility rules, past perfect tense, and equation-solving.
2. Master GMAT-Specific Strategies: Develop strategies like testing answer choices, rephrasing the target questions, and identifying subjects and verbs in sentences.
Improving Test-Taking Skills
3. Hone Test-Taking Skills: Sharpen your endurance, time management, and guessing strategies. Joining the GMAT Preparation Facebook group with 35k members can provide valuable support and advice.
4. Learn from Successful Experiences: Utilize resources like GMAT777, a platform that offers top tips for GMAT Success.
Conclusion
Decision-making regarding GMAT score cancellation is a strategic choice that depends on your current situation and future aspirations. Understanding the procedures and implications can help you make an informed decision. If you do need to cancel your scores, utilize the available resources for self-analysis and improvement to enhance your performance in future attempts.