What Is Cancel GMAT score?
The GMAT offers a unique feature that lets you decide whether to keep or cancel your score after you see your unofficial result. This decision can significantly impact your application strategy, making it essential to understand how it works before test day.
Definition
Cancel GMAT score is an option available to test-takers after completing the GMAT exam. When you choose to cancel, your score is withheld from business schools and does not appear on your official score report. You will not be able to see your official score, and it will not be included in your GMAT history for school reporting purposes.
Why it matters on the GMAT
This feature is important because it allows you to protect your application from a low score. Business schools typically see all your GMAT scores, so canceling a poor performance can prevent it from hurting your chances. However, you can only cancel at the test center immediately after seeing your unofficial score—once you leave, you cannot cancel later. Also, canceled scores are not visible to schools, but they remain on your record and can be reinstated within a certain period if you change your mind.
A concrete example
Imagine you take the GMAT and your unofficial score is 450, far below your target of 650. You have the option to cancel it right then. If you cancel, that 450 will not be sent to any school. Later, you retake the exam and score 680. Schools will only see the 680, not the canceled 450. If you had not canceled, schools would see both scores, potentially raising questions about your ability.
Common mistakes
- Not knowing the rules: You can only cancel right after the test, not later. If you leave without deciding, the score is automatically kept.
- Assuming canceled scores are erased: They are not erased; they remain on your record and can be reinstated if you pay a fee within the allowed period.
- Letting fear drive the decision: Some test-takers cancel a decent score because they expected higher, only to regret it later. Cancel only if the score is truly below your acceptable threshold.
How to practice it
Before test day, decide your cancellation policy. For example, decide that you will cancel if your score is more than 50 points below your target. During practice tests, simulate the decision: after each test, ask yourself if you would cancel based on your policy. This builds confidence and reduces panic on real test day. Also, review GMAC's official rules on score cancellation and reinstatement so you know your options.