Nowadays, many students are in business schools. Majority of them aspires to pursue their higher studies and career abroad. In order to do so the test result which is weighted by the US and Canada for business students is GMAT.
When to start preparing for GMAT?
As we all know by now, GMAT, Graduate Management Admission Test, is the test required for applying to MBA programmes abroad.
So the best time to start preparing for the test is from the end of second year or starting of third semester during undergrad.
Many will opine that it’s too early to start for GMAT, but trust me, the more one practices and learns the better the result they get.
Just like the proverb, “You reap as you sow”. Thus starting early will not only keep you ahead of other competitors, but also it will be easier later on to excel in the exams.
It is seen that students take the GMAT multiple times in order to get their desired score.
But if one prepares beforehand, they might clear the test one or at most two times. This will boost one’s confidence and also save a lot of their time.
How to prepare for GMAT?
Applicants need to be familiarised with the question pattern and all the contents from where the questions might be asked. In order to do this one might do a few things such as:
- Books and Guides : One can study from relevant books to be familiar with the contents of the exam.
There are many coach guides available in the market like ones from Saifurs and Mentors; these books can help with both the content and pattern.
- Official GMAT resources : There are official GMAT materials available which mimics the actual test.
This is a great way to get familiar with the tests and their question patterns.
- Prep courses : One can get enrolled in many courses which offer in depth guidance, study materials and practice opportunities.
- Tutors : If one needs special attention to some problems and weak spots, they can hire personal tutors who can guide them through the path.
This will help an individual to get over their specific weaknesses in a matter of no time.
Aside from all of these steps, one should have their own study plan. They need to stick to it, as it is known that no one else is going to study for you. One might follow the tips below if they are struggling:
- Set a target score : We know different schools require different score weightage.
One should target a specific score and work tirelessly to achieve that score.
- Constant study time : One should dedicate a good chunk of time everyday to prepare for the test.
This should be maintained thoroughly and diligently.
- Create a study plan : One should have a specific study plan according to which they will proceed.
This plan needs to be made by the students themselves in accordance with their weak spots.
- Choose the correct resources: The right resources need to be selected for each individual.
The resources which were helpful to some might not work for others.
When to register for GMAT?
As the GMAT is a computer-adaptive test (CAT), you can take the exam at one of the testing centres at almost any time.
Each test centre has its own schedule of operation, but their available time slots can fill quickly (especially weekends).
So there is no specific right time to take the exam. This will totally depend on the applicant’s preparation and free time. This timing can also depend on the sessions for the colleges.
Therefore, after judging all these things, one has to choose the correct time to register keeping the deadlines and their own preparations in mind.
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Writer
Rifah Zakiah
Intern, Content Writing Department
YSSE