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How Much Time is Required to Prepare for GMAT?

Preparation time for GMAT varies for different candidates. Know crucial factors considered for determining preparation time for GMAT.
authorImageAnil Solonki14 May, 2024
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How Much Time is Required to Prepare for GMAT?

Preparation Time for GMAT: Deciding when to start studying for the GMAT exam can greatly impact candidates' preparation journey. While some individuals may achieve a high score with just 1 month of focused study, others may need 5-6 months.

The variation in preparation time for GMAT results is due to multiple factors such as candidates' proficiency, number of study hours, target score, and more. Hence, there is no specific answer to the question -" How much time is required to prepare for GMAT?" However, candidates can determine the average preparation time for GMAT by considering various factors. Here, we have provided the key considerations to help candidates determine the necessary timeframe for GMAT preparation.

Factors Influencing Preparation Time for GMAT

To meticulously estimate the time needed for GMAT preparation, it's essential to understand the factors impacting the preparation timeline. The following are the crucial aspects taken into account for deciding the preparation time for GMAT:
  • Target GMAT score
  • Current preparation level
  • GMAT preparation resources

Set Target GMAT Score

The first step in determining GMAT preparation is setting the target GMAT score. The target GMAT score serves as a guideline for GMAT preparation. To set the GMAT target score, candidates should prepare a list of their preferred B-schools. Further, they should find out the average GMAT score accepted by the institute. To enhance one's chance of selection, it is recommended that candidates strive for a score approximately 20 points above the average of their preferred school or program. However, if candidates belong to a demographic group that commonly applies to the selected institute, candidates should aim for a score that is 30 points higher than the median score of their desired school or program.

Assess Current GMAT Preparation Level

To achieve success in GMAT, it is crucial to assess one's current preparation level. By knowing the current standing of the GMAT, candidates can determine how much effort they must put into reaching their target. Therefore, after determining the target score for the GMAT, candidates must assess their current level of preparation. For the initial GMAT assessment, candidates must take the following methods: After taking the GMAT assessment, candidates should perform an in-depth analysis of their performance to determine the weak and strong areas. This process is essential to strategically prepare for GMAT by paying attention to weak sections.

Available GMAT Preparation Resources

The time needed for GMAT preparation can vary depending on the study resources they select. These resources include books, classroom instruction, video tutorials, or online coaching. Candidates who approach the GMAT preparation diligently, maintain consistency, opt for the best online courses, and dedicate nearly 7 hours to study for the GMAT qualify with a high overall GMAT score. To make the most of the preparation time, candidates should prepare under the guidance of experts. PW GMAT Online Coaching offers regular classes with doubt resolution. Additionally, candidates get access to meticulously created study materials and recorded video lectures that are crucial for comprehensive coverage of the syllabus topics.

EstimatePreparation Time for GMAT

To determine the average time candidates require for GMAT preparation, it is essential to refer to the guidelines provided here. Candidates should initially take the diagnostic test, and based on their test scores and target scores, they can estimate preparation time for the GMAT. The following data categorise the time required for GMAT preparation into three groups:
  1. Candidates scoring below 500 in the GMAT initial assessment.
Candidates who score 500 or less on the GMAT assessment require 3 to 8 months for GMAT preparation, depending on their target score. The table below shows the time required by different candidates for GMAT preparation:
GMAT Target Score GMAT Preparation Time
650-700 3 to 5 months
700-750 4 to 6 months
750-800 5 to 8 months
  1. Candidates scoring below 500-600 in the GMAT initial assessment.
Candidates scoring within the range of 500 to 600 on the GMAT assessment test need to dedicate 1 to 5 months to GMAT preparation. The time required for these candidates with various target GMAT scores is presented below:
GMAT Target Score GMAT Preparation Time
650-700 1 to 3 months
700-750 2 to 4 months
750-800 3 to 5 months
  1. Candidates scoring below 600-700 in GMAT initial assessment.
Candidates who score 600 to 700 in GMAT initial assessment have a solid understanding of the basic concepts. They can excel in GMAT by dedicating 1 to 3 months. The table below shows the average GMAT preparation time required for candidates scoring 600-700 in initial evaluation:
GMAT Target Score GMAT Preparation Time
650-700 1 month
700-750 1 to 2 months
750-800 2 to 3 months

GMAT Preparation Steps

To prepare for the GMAT, candidates should follow a strategic study plan. Additionally, they must prioritise weak areas as the GMAT includes questions from various sections of the syllabus. Here are the steps candidates must follow to enhance their GMAT preparation:
  • Understand the GMAT exam pattern , GMAT syllabus , and important topics. Further, candidates should create a study plan to maintain consistency and cover the syllabus topics comprehensively.
  • Reviewing the necessary concepts to reinforce the concepts.
  • Applying the learned concepts to solve questions of varying difficulty levels
  • Seek expert guidance to enhance comprehension of challenging topics or concepts.
  • Take mock tests, ideally 4-5, and get through performance analysis to streamline the preparation strategy.

Also Read

GMAT Eligibility GMAT Admit Card GMAT Syllabus
GMAT Exam Date GMAT Preparation GMAT Result
GMAT Exam Centre GMAT Exam Day Guidelines GMAT Dress Code
GMAT Cut Off GMAT Colleges GMAT Registration
GMAT Exam Pattern

Preparation Time for GMAT FAQs

How long does it take to prepare for GMAT?

The time required for GMAT preparation varies with candidates' knowledge and their target score. However, most candidates need nearly 2-3 months to effectively prepare for GMAT.

Can I score 700 in GMAT in 3 months?

Scoring 700 on the GMAT is a challenging task. However, with dedicated preparation and a strategic study plan, candidates can successfully score 700 on the GMAT with 3 months of preparation.

How difficult is it to score 650 in GMAT?

To score 650 on the GMAT, it is essential for candidates to answer tough questions accurately. For this, it is essential to have an in-depth understanding of the fundamental concepts. Additionally, candidates have to attempt multiple GMAT mock tests and perform evaluations to understand their strong and weak areas. With dedicated preparation of 2-3 months, candidates can qualify for the GMAT by scoring 650 marks. 

How much time weak candidates need for GMAT preparation?

Candidates with a weak grasp of fundamental concepts may need 5 to 8 months to prepare for the GMAT.
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