Written by Trinav Rattan
BEST TIME TO TAKE GMAT
The best time to take the GMAT is when you are thoroughly prepared and can align the exam with your application timeline, personal, and professional commitments, allowing time for potential retakes. Remember, the goal is to perform at your best, so choose a timeframe that supports your success on the GMAT and your overall application process to business school.
The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a critical component of the application process for many business schools around the world. It assesses analytical writing, integrated reasoning, quantitative, and verbal skills. Here's a detailed exploration to help you decide the best timing for you:
1. Understand Application Deadlines
Most business schools have multiple rounds of application deadlines, typically in the fall and winter. It's crucial to work backward from these deadlines. Ideally, you should take the GMAT at least one to two months before your earliest application deadline. This timing allows you to receive your scores (which takes about three weeks) and still have time to retake the exam if necessary.
2. Choosing Your Preferred Business Schools
Before setting a GMAT date, identify the business schools you aspire to attend. Different institutions may have varying GMAT score requirements or preferences, which can influence your preparation strategy and desired score.
3. Consider Preparation Time
Adequate preparation is key to achieving a good score on the GMAT. Most test-takers spend two to six months studying for the exam, depending on their initial proficiency and target score. Assess your starting point by taking a practice test and plan your study schedule accordingly. Be realistic about the amount of time you can dedicate to studying each week.
4. Personal and Professional Considerations
Examine your personal and professional calendar. If you're working, studying, or have significant commitments, it's important to choose a period when you can dedicate sufficient time to preparation without overwhelming stress. Avoid scheduling your exam during busy periods at work or school, and consider your personal life events. If you're applying to schools that require English proficiency tests like the TOEFL or IELTS, in addition to the GMAT, you'll need to allocate time to prepare and take these exams as well.
5. Time for Other MBA Application Elements
Crafting a strong MBA application involves more than just taking the GMAT. Consider the time needed for essays, recommendation letters, and refining your resume. All these components require thoughtful preparation and should be factored into your timeline.
6. Testing Environment Preferences
The GMAT is offered year-round at test centers and through an online format. Some prefer the structure and environment of a test center, while others may feel more comfortable taking the exam from home. Availability can vary by location and time of year, so consider your preferences early and book your test date accordingly.
7. Health and Well-being
Your physical and mental health can significantly impact your test performance. Schedule the exam for a time when you're likely to be well-rested, healthy, and relatively stress-free. Avoid periods known for personal stress or when you might be prone to illness.
8. Availability of GMAT Test Slots
Finally, the availability of test dates at your preferred test center can influence when you can take the GMAT. Test center slots can fill up quickly, especially during peak application seasons, so it's advisable to book your test date early once you have a plan in place.
SUMMARY
By considering these factors, you can strategically plan your GMAT test date to align with your overall application timeline, ensuring that you are well-prepared and maximizing your chances of admission to your desired business schools.
Round 1 dates ends in September.
Round 2 dates ends up in January.
Round 1 are the most preferred to apply for the base schools. For round 1 you should be done with your GMAT exam by July end. (30th July). This is ideal time to get done with GMAT for Round 1 considering you will have ample time for your applications.
As a basic guideline, it's advisable to schedule your GMAT at least two months prior to your first application deadline. This ensures there's sufficient time for the schools to receive your scores. For instance, if the deadline for your initial application is on January 1, aim to have your GMAT completed by November 1 to ensure your scores are processed and reported in time.