How long scores last
IELTS, TOEFL and PTE scores are valid for two years. GRE and GMAT scores last five years. Stanford GSB admissions (2026); Baylor University Graduate School (2026)
Two years goes fast when you're also saving money, getting papers ready and choosing where to go.
The date that counts is your deadline
Some schools, like Stanford's business school, say your score must still be valid on the deadline you apply by, not on the day you start. So the real question is whether your score lasts until your deadline. Stanford GSB admissions (2026)
Each school and visa office sets its own rules, so check the official page for yours.
What waiting costs
If your score runs out first, you pay the test fee again, find weeks to practise again, and wait for new results. Put in your test and when you took it below to see how long you have.
One small step for today
Put your score's expiry date in your calendar today, with a reminder three months before it.