Test Prep Guide (GMAT/GRE) - 2025 Version

For those thinking of applying for Masters or MBA, it's that time of the year when it's time to start thinking of the GMAT or GRE. Regardless of where you are in the process of studying, as a "retired" standardized test tutor and someone who self-studied the GMAT to score in the 95 percentile, I'm here to give my advice on how to approach and improve your score. To start off let's discuss, What is the GMAT/GRE, why do we need to take it and which one should one take. For all this info (and more) check out my GMAT/GRE Breakdown post here!

Since i've written that post, there haven't been many major changes to the GMAT and GRE. The transition has been smooth for most people with people typically scoring in the same percentile. In fact, given the confusion over the new scale of score (205-805 vs. old 200-800), percentile has been the main way to access one's score. If taking the old 700 (87 percentile) as a marker, one needs to score approximately 650 to be in the same percentile. While the numbers may fluctuate here and there, this chart works as a rough guide.

Of course, as I always tell my clients, you should always plan to reach the highest score possible vs. what's believed to be the magic number. With that in mind, here's how you should be planning your GRE/GMAT studying

Study Timeline & Planning (With a 2025 Application in Mind)

Setting the goal: What is a realistic score to set as a goal? A realistic score goal will depend on the program you're looking at. Obviously with M7s and top programs that score will be higher. My suggestion is to do some research for a marker; take a look at their middle 80% range for GMAT, which is often published on program's admissions pages. To be competitive, set your GMAT score goal to be on the top range of that score. When it comes to GRE, there's currently less transparency but generally, the top 10 programs will expect a GRE score of 325+. For the top 25, scores tend to be within the 315-325 range. Again, use these numbers as a marker and aim higher!

When should you start studying? Generally speaking, I advise my clients to set aside 3-6 months for GMAT/GRE studying and since many of my clients are international students where verbal and reading speed tend to be particularly difficult, I advise the higher end of 6 months. With a 2025 application in mind, that means to apply for Round 2 you should be starting now. For Round 1, it's still possible but you may have to work on applications at the same time.

My recommended study plans based on timelines:

6+ months left → Focus on fundamentals first, then deep learning and lots of practice; there's a high potential for 750+ if studying smart and consistently!

3-6 months left → Take a more balanced approach with a mix of learning & practicing; you still have time to get a strong score!

1-3 months left → With little time left, focus on intensive studying, strategy, and test-taking skills; still possible to score high but of course, it's much more pressuring and will take more discipline.

Before studying, make sure you do a diagnosis to see where you're at and from there create a study plan (frequency of studying, how you'll approach studying, what resources you'll use for studying, etc.); typically the different stages of test prep studying can be broken down in 3 stages:

Stage 1 – Learn Concepts and Process Skills: Focus on understanding the foundational concepts and skills for each section.

Stage 2 – Master the Application of Skills: Cement your knowledge by practicing application through targeted Cementing Quizzes in a timed environment,  solving mixed and lengthy quizzes.

Stage 3 – Get Test Ready: Build your mental agility, testing stamina, and temperament by taking full-length Mock Exams.

Best Study Resources (Free and Paid)

There's typically three main ways to study for GMAT & GRE, and from most economical to most expensive are: Self-study, Cram/Group School, & Private tutor.

Obviously in an ideal world, to save money, self-study is the best. From my experience as a private tutor for standardized test prep, I know that prepping comes down to consistency and studying smart; you'll need to be disciplined and resourceful to make self-studying successful. Discipline comes down to creating a study schedule and sticking to it. Being resourceful includes researching and buying quality study books or finding free practice tests, explanations, and strategies online. If that's something that has typically been tough for you, the two paid options are cram school/group class or private tutor might be a better option.

The benefit of a cram/group school is that they provide the structure and resources for you to improve your GMAT/GRE score. While you still need discipline, there tends to be more accountability from your classmates and teachers. "Shopping" for a good GMAT/GRE cram school/group class is key here--don't just go with what's most popular. Take the time to talk to the instructors, hear their strategy, and feel if they'll provide the support you need. A good cram school/group school can prove this by providing a diagnosis of your current level and providing a clear timeline/path to reaching your goal score. For those in Taiwan looking to take the GRE, I recommend Lily GRE, who not only provides this comprehensive diagnosis, but a proven strategy and support system that leads to a higher score.

If money isn't a factor, then of course there's always the option of individualized attention and support through a private tutor. While this option is costly, the benefit is that you have deep help with the material, tailored strategies, and a coach to keep you on track. The frequency of meeting is based on you but I believe the best way to use a private tutor is to pair it with self-study. If you're able to be somewhat disciplined with self studying at the same time i'd recommend once a week to review your weak points, help with strategies, and provide ongoing support. If discipline is an issue, well consider more frequent meetings.

Here's a quick table summarizing the options

Study Method	Cost	Pros	Cons	Best For
Self-Study	Low	- Most affordable option - Flexible schedule - Wide range of free/paid resources available	- Requires strong discipline - Can be overwhelming to find the best materials - No structured guidance	Independent learners who are disciplined and resourceful
Cram School/Group Class	Medium	- Structured study plan - Accountability from classmates and instructors - Access to expert strategies and feedback	- Can be expensive - May not be personalized enough for individual weaknesses	Those who need structure, external accountability, and guided instruction
Private Tutor	High	- Personalized study plan - Tailored strategies for weak areas - One-on-one guidance and motivation	- Expensive - Requires a balance of self-study to be cost-effective	Those who need deep support, targeted strategies, and a coach to keep them accountable

Which one is best for you? Well, that all depends on you. I considered a group class and a tutor but given my good grasps of the fundamental and extensive experience tutoring standardized tests, I know that ultimately a good score comes from consistency and finding and utilizing the right resources. It's up to you on how you make that happen.

Top 3 mistakes to avoid

1. Relying too much on one resource: Just like anything in life, it's always good to diversify; ie, for me while Manhattan test prep books are popular, when I was studying for the GMAT I'd use these books alongside 2-3 books from different brands, allowing me to gather all possible strategies. Additionally, I sought out all possible mock exams, to ensure that I wasn't capped at the amount GMAC offers.

2. Ignoring timing strategies: the time game seems to affect everyone but especially international students, given the high level of vocabulary and dense writing. Make sure while studying you're using all possible strategies of keeping in mind of time. Additionally, make sure you've built up the stamina for the lengthy test (hint hint: mock tests!)

3. Not reviewing mistakes properly: obviously if studying for the GMAT/GRE, one will work on many practice problems but beyond just doing the problems make sure you're reviewing them! By review the mistake deeply and identifying how you executed that problem incorrectly, you can direct your studying to that concept and prevent the same error next time (efficiency!)

Final Tips & Encouragement

To close out this GMAT/GRE guide, I'd like to remind you that standardized test prep is a marathon, not a sprint. With consistent and disciplined practice, the utilization of good resources, and strong support (whether from yourself or others), it's possible to get a competitive score. Make sure to build your test-taking stamina by taking frequent mock exams (not the official ones please!). Learn from the mistakes. And finally, stay flexible. I know we're all dreaming of the top programs but there are plenty of great programs with lower GMAT/GRE scores. Furthermore, remember that the MBA/Masters application doesn't just come down to your score. There's other factors -- most notably your story -- that can come into play.

Want personalized guidance on your MBA/Masters journey? Schedule a free 30 minute consultation call with me here , where I provide a deep evaluation and advice on your application journey. Let me show you how I can help you unpack and communicate your unique story and energize you with confidence throughout your MBA application journey. Additionally, unlike other Application Consultants, as long as you have determination and dedication, I accept clients with all reasonable GRE/GMAT scores and those who have not yet taken it; In my full coaching package, I even include "GMAT/GRE Coaching" (where I provide support in studying but not teaching of the material). Don't let the GMAT/GRE deter your from your dreams -- let’s help you reach that stellar score and get you into some top MBA and Masters programs (with scholarship!) 加油!