Take the GMAT this winter break?

Question

I'm a senior in college, and I'm thinking about taking the GMAT. Right now I'm in a bit of a financial pinch so I can't really afford to buy practice material nor sign up for the GMAT unless I get a loan...

But when else would be a good time to take the test, though? I guess I might have some time over spring break and during late spring semester after my thesis is turned in (or I could work on it really hard over winter break and try to finish it early), but that's about it. I want to be traveling before I start work (at an investment bank), so I don't really have much time.

I'm planning on IBD --> PE --> BSchool so I won't have much time during work...

bgpower · Answer

Well, a rather difficult question. The GMAT expects some preparation time. Even more viable are the preparation materials, which can make the difference. Some weeks ago I spent nearly $300 for books, and still have to buy more (OK, I admit those could be too much). On the contrary, I think it's best to take the GMAT while you are in college, because that's the moment in life when maths/verbal are fresh, you are accustomed to studying long hours and GMAT might represent "just another exam" for you. I would suggest sitting for the GMAT prior to your thesis, because once you have it submitted, you'll definitely need some rest.

That's why I would suggest - definitely start in the winter brake, see how things develop, how you find the exam in general, and try to continue studying in the semester. What score do you target?

Regards,

That's why I would suggest - definitely start in the winter brake, see how things develop, how you find the exam in general, and try to continue studying in the semester. What score do you target?

Regards,

BM · Answer

Since you haven't started yet, I would strongly caution against taking the test during the winter break. There's simply not enough time to fully prepare for it. Spring or summer would be a much better option, but see how your semester feels.

When do you start work?

When do you start work?

Lolcat33 · Answer

Hello,

I was in a similar situation as you several months ago because I recently graduated. I debated on studying for the GMAT but ended up not studying because I simply did not have enough time.

I think an important factor to consider is how much time you have outside your school obligations. Are you involved in extracurricular activities? If you are, chances are it might be very difficult for you to do well on the test with everything going on in school. It is possible to do well but you will have to greatly sacrifice your free time and/or social life. You also have to at least maintain your GPA because there is a risk. I mean, your GPA could decrease while studying for the GMAT and you do not know whether the time you invested in studying for the test will be enough to get score that you need. If you are confident that you will get it all done, go for it. If not, think about whether you can take the risk.

It will probably be less stressful to study while in college than to study while working in IB...if that is even possible knowing you will have to work like 100 hours/week if you are in US or UK.

One last alternative is not to travel and use the time to study (I hate how I ruin all the fun). Another thing you need to have in mind is that most people study 3-4 months and take the test. Most people who did well usually study over 20 hours/week. You can check this information in greater details in other thread.

If you choose to study, make sure you get prep books and not just the ones issued by the GMAC.

Good luck man, hope you make best decision for you :wink:

highwyre237 · Answer

few tips, since you're in school, ask around about others who have prep books. Also, craigslist could be a great place to pick up used books, since most people applying this year are sending off their apps now, or in a month or so for R2 they should be looking to unload books for whatever they can get.

If this doesnt work out, e-books tend to be much cheaper. I know I bought a few of the MGMAT books for 10 bucks each, you still get all of the online content.

Also, take the test while you're in school, i waited until I was out of school for 4 years... its just not fun re-teaching yourself all the basics. Make sure you give yourself a few months to study anyway

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Take the GMAT this winter break?

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