When to take the GMAT?

[charcbb]

Hi guys,

I am only at the very beginning of my quest to get into graduate school, which I plan to do in 2 years time approximately (September 2013 intake most likely). So as you may imagine, I'm only scratching the surface on GMAT tests, application procedures, etc. A small thank you message to the creators and contributors to this website. It certainly has all kinds of great information.

My question may be a pretty basic and evident one to certain people but... when is the GMAT supposed to be taken? as in: can I do it today, for example, and give the schools I apply to in the future the test results afterwards? (I have read it's the GMAT people who send them to the schools)

If not, how can I ensure that I have my GMAT results at the time I send my application? (or maybe this is actually not required at the time we send the other documents)

Thanks in advance. I look forward to reading more on this very useful website.

[Jon@Admissionado]

Well, your test results will be good for five years, so that's a long time!
Basically, take the test when you feel ready, and I would suggest at least six months before July of your application year. That way if you don't get the score you need, you will have the time to take the text one, two more times if you need.

[thb_1981]

Grow a pair. You can do it anytime you want. Scores are valid for 5 years.

[FutureWorks]

Hi,

Schools accept your scores till 5 years. So take time and prepare well; so you can use that score later and build other aspects of your profile meanwhile. All the best