Does a GMAT course help in improving to 700+?

Question

Hello all,

I just took the GMAT, and scored a 700 (44 Q, 41 V). I am really considering retaking it in 2-3 months, because even before I got my score I felt I could have done better. This was my first test, and I used the OG + the Manhattan 8-set strategy guide.

In your experience/opinion, does a GMAT course help for someone like me to improve further? Or is it a waste of money because classes have lots of beginners and thus I'd be better off studying on my own?

Thanks!

pinkray · Answer

you'd be better off using the forum.

i agree about the "classes attracting beginners" theory ( i speak from an Indian perspective. been there, done that).

i agree self-study(with discipline) is the key.

GMATLA · Answer

I definitely disagree with the above post. There are lots of great programs out there that will help you out. With a 700 under your belt you could easily improve into that 730+ range with more study. It's just about how much time you want to commit. Some of the courses that stick out in my mind is the Knewton 50 point guarantee, so if you don't improve by 50 points you get your money back. I'm not sure if this applies since you already hit 700 though. Also there is Kaplan's advanced course which is geared towards people that have already scored a 650+. Also, there is our own study plan that is geared towards people in your range trying to bump that extra 20-50 points here: gmat-study-plan-go-from-650-to-80235.html

Also, you may want to consider a retake b/c of your quant score. With a Q44 you haven't reached that magic 75-80% threshhold that the top 5-10 schools will probably like to see. And if you don't have a quant undergrad or work experience background there may be some question marks about your quantitative ability. So you should shoot for a Q47+ and even with a 1 or 2 point scaled score increase in verbal you could hit a 730+. So you are extremely close.

Just remember though, if you choose to retake you will need to study for the new IR section. Check out info here: the-next-generation-gmat-gmat-integrated-reasoning-130224.html#p1070016

GPT55 · Answer

Thanks for your feedback!

And big thanks especially for the Knewton tip. I signed up, it's a no brainer really, if I do improve to 750 the $350 spent is a bargain, and if not, it won't cost a cent. (I hope the fact that I signed up on the same day when I took my first GMAT doesn't confuse the system.

)

Plus I get the GMATClub tests.

But first, at least a week off, my brain is already fried. 8-)

) Plus I get the GMATClub tests.

But first, at least a week off, my brain is already fried. 8-)

GMATLA · Answer

Well done! I like to see this motivation

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Does a GMAT course help in improving to 700+?

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