Challenge yourself to plenty of practice GMAT test questions

Practice GMAT exams can help you continually assess your progress and readiness for the real exam as you continue with your studies. They’re also a helpful tool for practicing your pacing and time management which are vital skills.

Unanswered questions reduce your score on the GMAT, which means it’s always better to give your best guess when you don’t know an answer. You should try to get into good habits like this during your preparations. Your score could fall dramatically if you run out of time on the day of the exam, so be sure to make practice tests a consistent part of your study schedule.

FAQs about the GMAT

What is GMAT test prep?

GMAT test prep is the study that takes place before taking the exam. It can be a self-led process, or a series of online or in-person classes that take place over several weeks to help you develop the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve a strong GMAT score.

How long does it take to study for GMAT exams?

Many students are unsure how much time to commit to studying for the GMAT, but there’s no simple answer. Some people need longer to prepare than others depending on how well they perform on practice exams and how much time they can dedicate to studying each week. Those who study more tend to achieve higher GMAT scores, and those who study for 60 hours or more typically yield scores in excess of 500.

Your GMAT study schedule should be tailored to your unique circumstances, but try to study little and often consistently for at least eight weeks before the exam.

What is a good GMAT score?

Each of the four sections of the GMAT are scored individually, but the Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning sections are also combined. This combined score is known as your total score and it’s what the majority of business schools primarily consider during the admissions process. The total GMAT score ranges between 200 and 800. Two-thirds of people who take the test score between 400 and 600, and the average score is around 580. The very best business schools tend to admit students who score 710 or higher.

Prepare for success

With four separate sections to think about, it can be difficult to know just where to start with your GMAT preparations. For the best results, it’s generally advisable to break the exam down into each of its subsections, focusing on one at a time. Using practice questions and past papers as part of your preparation will help to highlight areas where there’s perhaps more room for improvement.

And above all, remain consistent with your studies. Setting out a GMAT study plan will help you to stay on track in the build up to the real exam and set you up for success in your future endeavors.