GMAT score not improving

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GMAT score not improving

by lfoltz » Tue Jan 29, 2013 10:32 am
Please advise- I cannot seem to crack the GMAT. I'm not an idiot either. I went to the School of Public Health at UNC Chapel Hill and finished with a 3.3 GPA, but I'm terrible at standardized tests.

I took my first GMAT practice test in late September 2012 without studying whatsoever and received a 520. From the beginning of October through the end of November, I met with a private tutor for about 1.5 hrs/week and studied about 30hrs/week. (I was unemployed) During that time my scores ranged from a 450-570, and every other test seemed to vary 100pts from the last. A week before my actual GMAT (on 12/29/12) I did three practice tests and got 550 on all of them. Needless to say, I was more than frustrated that I had been studying for 2 months, while not working, and only improved 30 points. (What a waste of $1200!)

For the actual test, which I took 12/29/12, I received a devastating 450. I also took the GRE, and received a relatively better score that I used to apply for Round 3 deadlines.

Does anyone have advice for improving my score? I feel hopeless because I worked so hard with no improvement and don't know what to do next. I feel like whether I study another month or another 5 months, I'll continue to get the same outcome. Should I just continue to take practice test after practice test, spend another $1000-$1500 on test prep, or just accept that 450 is the best I can do. I'm willing to put in the time, effort, and money, but want to see results.

Thanks so much for your advice!!

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by Jon@Admissionado » Tue Jan 29, 2013 10:43 am
It' hard to say EXACTLY what you should do to improve, because whatever solution there is must be tailored to your needs, weaknesses and strengths. You DEFINITELY have to take the GMAT again (And perhaps again and again). I mean as a 3.3 student, don't be satisfied with anything less than a 630!!! Even if it takes you a year and a half. It's very very worth it. As for where you should spend your time and money, again, it's hard without knowing exactly what the issue is.. but I would say try different things - self-study, an official course, etc. You will find it! Just keep on persevering.
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