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How to Get Extended Time on the GMAT: A Guide for Accommodations

If you're feeling stressed about the thought of taking the GMAT, you're not alone. The GMAT is a notoriously difficult test, and many students feel like they need every advantage they can get. One way to level the playing field is by getting extended time on the exam.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about testing accommodations and how to get extended time on the GMAT exam. We'll share some helpful tips for making your case to the test administration, so by the end of this post, you'll be an expert on testing accommodations - and you might just feel a little better about taking the GMAT! So let's get started...

Research your options - there are a few different ways to get extended time on the GMAT exam

If you're feeling a little overwhelmed by the GMAT, fear not! Researching your options and finding ways to get extended time on the exam can be just what you need to get your score up. From disability accommodations to untimed testing, all it takes is a bit of digging to open up more possibilities during exam time. Did you know that some institutions even offer supplemental practice exams that are untimed? This could be a great way to get more acquainted with the format and layout while still having all the necessary elements at hand - relax and give it a try!

Talk to your doctor - get a note from them explaining your need for extra time

It's always wise to have a word with your doctor - especially when it comes to extra time. After all, nothing speaks louder than a signed and stamped piece of paper from an authoritative source. So don't hesitate; when an extra few hours on that pressing project would make all the difference, drop in and start talking to your doc about getting a note for extra time; it'll be one of the smartest decisions you'll ever make. And who knows? You may even get a delicious lollipop thrown in as part of the package deal!

Contact the testing center - they will need to know about your accommodations in advance

Planning ahead is always a good idea, so be sure to contact the testing center in advance of your exam! This way, you'll be able to inform them of your accommodations needs and make sure everything will run smoothly for when it's time for you to take your test. There's no need to worry about being unprepared; with a little planning ahead, you can breeze through test day with ease. Just reach out and get the ball rolling—the testing center will be here waiting on you!

Follow the instructions - make sure you understand what you need to do on test day

Test day can be your best friend or your worst enemy. To make sure it's the former, you just need to do one thing: follow the instructions! Every test is different, but if you pay close attention to what's expected of you, you will be setting yourself up for success. If unclear on any point, don't hesitate to reach out and ask questions - the worst they can say is no! There really is no better approach than this simple yet effective strategy. So my advice? Enter the test room with a plan and exit knowing that you put in your best effort.

Now that you know a little more about how to get extra time on the GMAT, we hope you feel less stressed and more confident going into your test. Just remember to do your research, talk to your doctor, contact the testing center, and follow the instructions. We wish you the best of luck – go knock it out of the park!


Here is a guide that tells you about the steps you need to take in order to register as a test taker with disabilities and get extended time on the GMAT.

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Anish Merchant

CEO & Co-Founder

- "Preparing for the GMAT and applying for an MBA requires a tremendous commitment, and that doesn’t take into consideration the personal challenges our students must face when deciding if they want to leave their friends, families, and native cultures behind to advance their careers abroad. An MBA is not for everyone and that’s precisely what makes this advanced degree so valuable. 

For these reasons, we at Merchant only work with students we are confident have what it takes to succeed throughout the preparation and application processes.

Given an increased demand in our services, we do not have the ability to offer free consultation services to unserious applicants. If you are interested in learning more about Merchant, please fill out this form. After reviewing your LinkedIn profile, our team will be in touch with you if we feel you are a good fit for our services."