Online Prep Course vs My own materials and Videos

Question

Hi,

I need some advice.

I have the Veritas Video on Demand for iPad and I have my friends course books. I am struggling to find why I am paying the whopping $1600?

I think with the money it is best served to purchase Magoosh, the gmatclub test access and maybe one on one tutoring. What do you think?

I have read the reviews on Ravi from Veritas but what I don't understand is what is the difference between him and the on demand videos? It is my understanding that instructors do not provide 1:1 help.

I am struggling and really need some help to figure this out.

EMPOWERgmatRichC · Answer

Hi itsmedavidv,

There are plenty of options when it comes to studying for the GMAT and there's a considerable range in prices. Ultimately, you're looking for the right combination of resources that helps you to hit your score goals in a timely fashion and at a price that you consider acceptable.

Most GMAT companies offer some type of free resources (practice problems, Trial Accounts, free videos, etc.) so that you can "test out" a product before you buy it. You should take advantage of all of these freebies, then use them as a gauge for whether you improve or not. Choose the one (or combination) that best fits your personality, timeline and budget.

What is your score goal?
When are you planning to apply to Business School?

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

itsmedavidv · Answer

Thank you for the reply Rich.

I have crashed a Veritas class and enjoyed the format from the instructor but the video lessons are available for free. The only advantage are the additional practice and CAT tests, something which I can purchase without the large price tag.

I am applying on March 18 and am hoping for at least a 600 but am shooting for a 650.

EMPOWERgmatRichC · Answer

Hi itsmedavidv,

You have a couple of months to study, so you should be able to get a lot done if you plan everything out accordingly. Have you taken any practice CATs yet? If so, then how did you score? If not, then you should take one soon. That initial result will give you an idea of what you need to work on. As you continue to practice (and become more comfortable with the material and tactics), you can adjust your routine accordingly.

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

itsmedavidv · Answer

Thank you Rich, so do you suggest I study on my own and not take a prep course?

EMPOWERgmatRichC · Answer

Hi itsmedavidv,

Before I can offer any specific suggestions, I'd really need to see how you perform on a FULL-LENGTH practice CAT. Those scores will provide some valuable information on your current strengths and weaknesses and if you have any other non-content related problems (pacing, endurance, etc.). What I mentioned earlier was that there are plenty of GMAT study products besides the ones that you listed, so you shouldn't limit yourself to just those few.

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

alexau · Answer

I took the Veritas live online course with Ravi and thought he was a great instructor. It was definitely a bit more expensive, but you can always get discounts through GMAT Club. It was good to hear his take on the questions and lesson materials and you do have the ability to ask him private questions in the online chat boxes. Additionally, there was another moderator who had scored in the 99th percentile and really understood the GMAT at a high level. So you actually get two instructors for the live online classes.

At the end of the day though it was a good amount more money. I watched most of the on demand videos and found them to be helpful, but it was always nice being able to communicate with a real person if you had any questions halfway through the class.

Alex

At the end of the day though it was a good amount more money. I watched most of the on demand videos and found them to be helpful, but it was always nice being able to communicate with a real person if you had any questions halfway through the class.

Alex

GMATPill · Answer

We offer an in-between option in terms of pricing between the two options you presented. If you haven't already, you should check out the GMAT PILL iPad app and you'll see that it's a really great way to navigate through 1,300+ videos from our course. You pretty much just sit back and watch. You can even download videos to access offline.

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