GMAT Preparation

It is important to know that GMAT scores are accepted for foreign as well as Indian MBA programmes. Some of the top Indian MBA institutions that accept GMAT scores include different IIMs, XLRI (Xavier School of Management), S P Jain, Great Lakes Institute of Management, XIMB, TAPMI, etc. The following points provide an overview of the GMAT cut offs for different Indian MBA colleges:GMAT cut off for IIM Ahmedabad is 720.GMAT cut off for IIM Bangalore is 720.GMAT cut off for IIM Calcutta is 697 (700).GMAT cut off for SP Jain is 650.GMAT score range for ISB Hyderabad is 530 – 780.GMAT cut off for IMT Ghaziabad is 650.It is advised that students aim for at least 700 on the GMAT so that they are in a safe zone. In addition to their GMAT scores, students must also aim for building a holistic profile that has managerial work experience, certificates/courses, etc. to ensure their selection in a good MBA college. Moreover, students must take their GD (Group Discussion) and PI (Personal Interview) preparations very seriously as they carry a significant weightage in their MBA selections.

When it comes to GMAT preparation books, there are several options available, and the choice ultimately depends on your learning style and preferences. However, some basic GMAT exam study material includes the followingGMAT Official Study Material and Tests: Published by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), these books must be your starting point as they contains actual GMAT questions from previous exams. They will give you an actual feel of the GMAT exam.Manhattan Prep GMAT Strategy Guides: The guides are comprehensive and provide in-depth explanations and strategies.Kaplan GMAT Prep Plus: Kaplan's GMAT prep books are well-regarded, especially for the quantitative section.Online Material: Students may refer to online GMAT resources such as GMAT Club, Beat the GMAT, YouTube, Thursdays with Ron, etc. for giving final touches to their GMAT 2023 preparation.To obtain a better understanding of the test format and time, remember that while books can be helpful tools, it is crucial to practice with authentic GMAT problems and take mock tests.

The duration of GMAT preparation can vary depending on various factors such as your target score, your familiarity with the GMAT 2023 exam pattern and content, and the amount of time you can dedicate each day. While there is no fixed timeframe that applies to everyone, here are some general guidelines:Duration of GMAT Preparation: Students usually spend around 3-6 months for the GMAT 2023 exam preparation. This allows for sufficient time to familiarize yourself with the content, practice different question types, and build test-taking strategies. However, the duration can be shorter or longer depending on your individual circumstances and level of preparation.Time Allocation per Day: It might be difficult for working professionals to fit in GMAT preparation amidst other obligations. The ideal amount of time to spend studying per week should be at least 10-15 hours, which can be broken up into daily study sessions of 1-2 hours. However, this may change based on your availability and schedule. Establishing a study regimen that works for you is important because consistency is important.Balancing Work and GMAT Preparation: Balancing work and GMAT preparation requires effective time management and prioritization. Here are some strategies to consider:Create a Study ScheduleUtilize Your Free TimeMaximize WeekendsPrioritize Important TopicsSeek SupportRemember that the quality of your study sessions, not just the quantity, is the secret to successful GMAT preparation. It is crucial to assess your performance, practise using approved GMAT materials, and take mock exams in order to pinpoint your areas of weakness. To further your preparation, think about using Internet tools, study aids, and coaching services.

Preparing for the GMAT and IELTS exams requires time and effort, and the ideal preparation timeline can vary depending on your current proficiency level and target scores. However, here are some general guidelines:Know the different study abroad intakes.Know the admission deadlines.Keep time for retaking the exams and for the preparation of apply documents such as an SOP, LORs, etc.GMAT:It is recommended to prepare for the GMAT 2023 exam for at least 3-6 months.This allows you to familiarize yourself with the exam format, content, and question types.It also gives you ample time to work on areas of weakness, practice test-taking strategies, and improve your overall performance.If you feel you need more time or have a busy schedule, you can adjust the timeline accordingly.IELTS:The preparation timeline for IELTS can vary depending on your English language proficiency level.If you are already proficient in English and have good language skills, a preparation period of 1-2 months may be sufficient.If you need to improve your English language skills, it is advisable to start preparing at least 3-6 months in advance.This will give you time to work on your vocabulary, grammar, listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.Regular practice with sample test materials and mock exams is also essential.Keep in mind that these time frames are only suggestions, and the length of preparation may vary depending on your particular situation and objectives. Establish a study plan, identify your talents and shortcomings, and provide enough time for practice and progress. It is also a good idea to confirm the precise specifications and application deadlines of the colleges or organisations you intend to apply to. Your preparation schedule may be impacted by some of them having specified score requirements or application deadlines.

It is difficult to prepare for all MBA entrance exams with one book due to different exam patterns. Also, since there are multiple sections in each exam, one book might not be able to cover the complete syllabus of these entrance exams. However, there are certain section-wise books that can be referred to for different MBA exams. These are:
1. Arun Sharma or R. S. Agrawal for quantitative aptitude
2. Nisiht Sinha or Pearson for data interpretation and logical reasoning
3. Arun Sharma or Odisha Publication for Verbal Ability
4. For logical reasoning books by Arun Sharma or Nishit K. Sinha
You can choose any of these books to prepare for the exam according to the syllabus.

The Graduate Management Admission Test GMAT conducted by GMAC, acts as a gateway for admission to more than 4,800 business schools across the world. According to experts, you can start getting ready for the GMAT by using the following advice:
1. Determine which business school you want to attend and what GMAT score you need (out of 800).
2. Before creating a study schedule, familiarize yourself with the GMAT exam's syllabus and format.
3. Choose the appropriate study materials and mock exams for the exam in accordance with the GMAT syllabus.
4. Make a proper study schedule and focus on the verbal and reasoning sections, as the GMAT prioritizes these sections more.
5. Recognize which subject requires more of your attention so that you can give each section the time it needs.
6. Regular practice is necessary in addition to mock exams to improve GMAT accuracy.
7. Know why you want to attend a particular college; this will help you after your GMAT exam and when you are writing your college SOP. The GMAT scores are valid for 5 years, and you can get the opportunity to study at top colleges after scoring well in the GMAT.

The GMAT score qualifies you for a foreign institution, whereas the CAT exam is required for admission to the top Indian Institute of Management. It is challenging but not impossible to prepare for both exams. You can follow the experts' suggestions to prepare for both exams:
1. Find common sections to study in both exams. For example, the reasoning and quant sections are asked in both exams. You can practice these simultaneously.
2. You can also allot a separate time slot to analytical writing, which you can pair with the reading comprehension section of the CAT exam.
3. Understand the different demands of both exams to prepare accordingly. The GMAT prioritizes the verbal section, whereas the CAT prioritizes the quantitative section.
4. Select your study material in such a manner that it has some common books or notes that can be useful in both exams.
5. Give mock tests for both exams on alternate days. For example, if you are giving a GMAT mock on Monday, you should give a CAT mock on Wednesday. Because the GMAT takes significantly less time than the CAT you can begin preparing for the CAT before the GMAT. Also, make sure you leave enough time between the two exams to deal with exam stress.