Hi tomatoeggs,

Unfortunately, you are NOT allowed to bring anything into the Computer Lab with you. Each Test Center provides something that will 'cancel out' noise - typically either headphones or ear plugs (but usually not both). Since you've been to this Test Center before - and you have some idea of what the testing conditions will be like the next time you take the GMAT - you might be able to better train for the experience (plan to take your practice CATs someplace that's a little 'noisier' so that you can get used to the potential distractions).

1) How did you score when you took the GMAT the last time?
2) What is your goal score?

GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich

Hi tomatoeggs,

First off, a 650 is a strong score (it's right around the 80th percentile overall), so it could be enough to get you into your first-choice School. As such, a retest might not be necessary. Depending on the Schools that you plan to apply to, you would likely find it beneficial to speak with an Admissions Expert about your overall profile. There's a Forum full of them here:

https://www.beatthegmat.com/ask-an-mba-a ... t-f40.html

If you do choose to retest though, we have to talk a bit more about your your studies so far and your performance on the Official GMAT:

1) How long have you studied?
2) What materials have you used?
3) What were the Quant and Verbal Scaled Scores when you scored 650?
4) When are you planning to retake the GMAT?

GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich