If you're planning to apply for an MBA in 2025 and starting your GMAT/GRE preparation now, February 2025, having a well-structured study strategy is crucial.
Karan Bagadiya, a GMAT prep expert with more than 10 years of experience, shares his insights on how you can build a 4-month study plan to ensure you are ready for Round 1 applications.
This four-month study plan will allow you to complete your test prep by June, giving you ample time to focus on your MBA applications. The earlier you complete the GMAT/GRE, the more breathing room you’ll have to refine your application essays, secure recommendations, and network with target schools.
4-Month GMAT/GRE Prep Timeline (Feb - June) 2025 MBA
February: Baseline Assessment & Concept Building
Take a full-length official diagnostic test to assess your strengths and weaknesses. This initial score is not an indicator of where you will end up, but will help you to break the inertia, build momentum, and understand the path you need to take on the preparation journey.
Familiarize yourself with the test format, question types, and timing using the official resources.
Begin strengthening foundational concepts in quant and verbal. Approach this step with patience, ensuring you have a solid understanding of the basics before prematurely rushing to solve ‘hard’ problems.
Choose high-quality study materials and online prep platforms tailored to your individual learning needs.
March: Deep Learning & Practice
Follow a structured study plan, dedicating 2-3 hours daily, rather than one long burst over the weekend. Consistency is the key.
Having built a foundation, begin concentrating on the core concepts tested on the exam. The goal is to sharpen your ‘reasoning’ skills while deepening the understanding of the relevant concepts.
Avoid solving a large number of problems. Instead, focus on handling problems independently to foster a deeper understanding. Reading explanations immediately can be counter-productive.
Build an error log to systematically identify issue areas. More importantly, plug these gaps through root cause analysis. Ensure accuracy on easy and medium-level questions before moving on to more challenging ones.
April: Advanced Prep & Strategy Refinement
Transition to tackling advanced question types and developing effective test-taking strategies to handle tricky questions efficiently.
Use sectional or full-length tests to evaluate your progress. More importantly, conduct a rich thorough ‘no-time-limit’ mock analysis.
Focus on addressing weak areas while reinforcing strong ones through targeted practice tests.
Gradually increase the frequency of full-length tests, strategising time management. Remember, though, time efficiency will not come down just by taking ‘more’ tests.
May/June: Final Push & Mock Exams
Simulate real test-day conditions by taking official practice exams under timed settings.
Review error patterns and fine-tune strategies for last-minute improvements.
Work on stress management techniques to build confidence. Control the ‘controllables’.
Schedule your GMAT/GRE exam toward the end of May or early June.
If needed, schedule a retake strategically, allowing time for targeted improvement.
Shift focus towards MBA application essays, recommendations, and interview prep. The exam score is one piece of the puzzle.
While many candidates prepare for GMAT or GRE on their own, many struggle to build the right personalized strategies or identify their own shortcomings. Connecting with GMAT and GRE experts like Karan can help candidates build structured study plans, get personalized coaching, and access practice tests tailored to their specific strengths and weaknesses.
Why You Should Complete the GMAT/GRE Early?
Many applicants underestimate the MBA application timeline. Piyush Ranjan, the founder of Management Masters, a leading Indian boutique MBA Admissions Consulting firm, says that completing your GMAT/GRE as early as possible offers several advantages:
More Time for Applications: You can dedicate the next few months to crafting a strong application without the added pressure of test prep.
Flexibility for Retakes: If you need to retake the exam for a higher score, you’ll have sufficient time to do so without delaying your applications.
Better School Research & Networking: MBA programs value candidates who demonstrate strategic planning. Finishing early gives you time to attend webinars, connect with alumni, and tailor your applications accordingly.
Reduced Stress: Juggling GMAT/GRE prep alongside applications can be overwhelming. Completing your test early keeps the process manageable and less stressful.