How to begin studying for my GMAT

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amje: Newbie | Next Rank: 10 Posts; Posts: 1; Joined: Wed Jan 28, 2009 10:12 pm; Location: Houston/Austin

by amje » Wed Jan 28, 2009 10:28 pm

Hello Forum,

I am about to take the gmat journey. I graduated in May 2008 from with a undergrad degree in Finance. After I graduated, I completed a internship program at a top finance firm in nyc as wealth management analyst. My internship program ended in December so I am back in Texas looking for a job in this struggling job market. I took the CFA level 1 in December in nyc and found out today that I actually passed. I wont take level 2 till 2010. In the meantime, I think it is a good idea to get my gmat out the way. I want to put all my energy to get the absolute best score I can on my gmat. For my case it will be necessary for me to take a prep class. So here are my questions to the forum:

1. Where should I start to begin my gmat journey
2. Which gmat prep course will prepare me the best for the gmat.

My target score is 660+ preferably 700.

Any input will help tremendously.

Thanks!

amje

Source: Beat The GMAT — GMAT Strategy | Wed Jan 28, 2009 10:28 pm

Jen Kedro: GMAT Instructor; Posts: 131; Joined: Wed Jun 04, 2008 1:17 pmFollowed by: 2 members; Thanked: 15 times

by Jen Kedro » Fri Jan 30, 2009 11:08 am

Congrats on making the decision to go ahead and work on your GMAT prep now. Since scores are valid for 5 years, it certainly can make sense to go ahead when you think you have the time and can make that commitment, and do the preparation and take that test. We also find that those who are still in undergrad or just out of it often perform even better than those who have been out of school for a while-- perhaps the math is fresher, or you are just more used to studying and taking tests.

A great first step is always to take an initial practice test. This will expose you to the types of questions you'll see on the GMAT as well as the format/experience, and will provide you with an assessment of your baseline/starting score and strengths/weaknesses. Don't focus too much on this score, but do use the results to get a feel for what you'd need to work on most. We have a practice test on our website, as do most other prep providers, plus GMAT Prep is a free software option from the testmaker.

From there, you'll decide what type of prep option is best for you-- a live class, online class, tutoring, etc, and what company to prep with. Do your research, ask around, and attend free events at a few companies, online or in person, to make the best choice.

Good luck!

Jen Kedrowski
Kaplan Test Prep & Admissions
GMAT Teacher
MBA Admissions Consultant
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