Preparing for the GMAT or GRE is one of the most significant steps in your journey towards a Top Global MBA program. Test scores can easily play a make-or-break role in one’s applications, especially when candidates come from over-represented applicant pools such as Indian engineers.
A well-structured study plan can help you stay on track, maximize your efforts, and achieve your target score. Follow this comprehensive guide to create an effective study plan tailored to your needs.
Step 1: Set a Target Score and Test Date
Before diving into preparation, define your goals:
Research the average GMAT/GRE scores required by your target schools.
Assess your current skill level by taking an official diagnostic test.
Choose a test date that allows ample time for preparation as per your requirements.
GMAT or GRE preparation often proves as one of most time-taking aspects of the overall MBA application journey. However, building a strong application also requires significant time commitment.
Piyush Ranjan, the founder of Management Masters, a leading Indian boutique MBA Admissions Consulting firm, suggests candidates start working with him only after they have their final test scores. "This minimizes the uncertainty in the application process, and ensures that candidates don't waste time preparing applications for schools they might not even be competitive at."
A good rule of thumb is to build a comprehensive GMAT or GRE study plan to finish test prep 4-5 months before your target application rounds. This gives candidates ample time to ensure they have their desired scores and to work on multiple applications.
Find coaches who can help you build a strategic approach to test preparation.
Step 2: Identify Strengths and Weaknesses
Your diagnostic test results will reveal areas where you need improvement. Categorize your performance into:
Strong Areas: Topics where you score well and need minimal revision.
Weak Areas: Topics that require significant practice and learning.
Step 3: Choose the Right GMAT Coaches & Build Study Plan
Investing in high-quality study resources is a critical component of your preparation. A structured and well-planned approach will help you cover all sections effectively and build a strong foundation.
Seek guidance from GMAT and GRE experts, who have years of experience in test preparation and have helped hundreds of candidates. These expert mentors offer structured study plans, personalized coaching, and access to practice tests tailored to your specific strengths and weaknesses.
Most importantly, find coaches who can help you build a strategic approach to test preparation.
Karan Bagadiya, a GMAT prep expert with over 10 years of experience, shares how diagnostic tests can help you strategically plan your GMAT/GRE preparation. He also outlines a 4-month study plan to keep you on track for Round 1 applications.
Step 4: Take Regular Practice Tests & Analyze Your Mistakes
Simulating real exam conditions helps build endurance and confidence. Aim for regular practice tests, but more importantly, conducting a detailed analysis of your mistakes after each test and adjusting your study plan based on test performance. To stay consistent and motivated, follow the below:
Stick to your schedule and track progress.
Take breaks to avoid burnout.
Stay positive and remind yourself of your end goal.
Abhinav Verma, a Quant & DI expert, shares in-depth strategies to help candidates excel in Quant and Data Insights. Explore his expert insights in our dedicated blogs on both topics, exclusively on YMA.
Step 5: Review and Revise Before the Exam
Focus on weaker areas in the last two weeks.
Solve official practice questions.
Avoid learning new concepts at the last minute.
Get adequate rest before test day.
By following this structured approach, you can optimize your preparation, build confidence, and achieve a high score on the GMAT or GRE.