Is Actual Gmat much tougher than gmat prep??

Real GMAT is different from prep in that it's difficutly scales upward at a much higher rate. Especially with the experimental questions involved, it ramps up pretty quickly, within the first 5-6 questions.

Pretty similar, score was accurate as well. 770 and 730 on Prep 1 and 2, 750 on the real thing.

In my experience, Yes, and in particular the Quant section. The results of the Gmat Test Preps were 580, 610, 620, 660.
This said, I only got 510 on the Gmat Real test , way below my worst expectations. I think the test was particularly tough and I was particularly stressed before the exam.

Hi makky2000,

To start, if you're interested in some advice for this next phase of your studies, you would likely find it beneficial to start your own post-thread (instead of piggy-backing on this old one). When these types of score drops occur (between your CAT/mock Scores and your Official GMAT), the two likely "causes" involve either something that was unrealistic during practice or something that was surprising (or not accounted for) on Test Day. Before we discuss any of those potential issues though, it would help if you could provide a bit more information on how you've been studying and your goals:

Studies:
1) When did you take the Official GMAT and what were your Quant and Verbal Scaled Scores?
2) How long have you studied in total? How many hours do you typically study each week?
3) What study materials have you used so far?
4) On what dates (or approximate dates) did you take EACH of your CATs/mocks and how did you score on EACH (including the Quant and Verbal Scaled Scores for EACH)?

Goals:
5) What is your overall goal score?
6) When are you planning to apply to Business School and what Schools are you planning to apply to?

GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich

Hi makky2000,

It's not that the actual GMAT is tougher than the mocks. There are a lot of reasons for the drop in the score. Please go through the article below to understand the probable reasons for the drop and to know the plan of action for retake.

Scored well on mocks but failed miserably on the test?

Hope it helped. If you wish to have a detailed discussion about your GMAT experience and if you need any help with the study strategy for your next attempt, you can get in touch with me using the below link. I'll be happy to help.