Practice GMAT score very different from real GMAT score

[Shilpa2343]

I need to take the GMAT in order to get into the masters of accounting program. The score I needed was a 500 and was told that it really isn't that difficult to get that score. So wrong! I don't know why but I've had the hardest time trying to get it even close to 500. I took the kaplan course and practice tests went to a 520 so I decided to take the real GMAT. The score I got was a 400. I think its because I stress out too much because for my practice tests I would just take them for the fun of it. Now, I don't know where I went wrong. Does anyone else have this problem?

[beatthegmat]

You're in good company, Shipa. Do some digging into the old forum posts and you'll find plenty of people who have suffered similar fates.

In your case, when you take practice GMATs--don't take them for 'fun'. Instead, I recommend that you take each test with a serious mindset and try to recreate the actual testing environment as much as possible. For example, try to take all your practice tests in a public library, ideally in your own cubicle in a library. Take your practice tests at the exact time you would be taking your actual test. Wear earplugs in your practice test, if you plan to wear them at the actual test center, etc.

Taking practice tests in this serious manner will help condition your mind to be prepared for the actual test!

Good luck!

[black_cat]

I agree about the practice tests. You have to treat them seriously. I even went so far as to call the testing center to find out if I would have scratch paper or a dry erase board (as all of the study books were saying). As it turns out, they use neither. They use the laminated sheets with a marker. I was able to find it on Amazon. I use it with my practice tests and am so glad I did. It's awkward to use, but now I'm used to it. Check out the link below.

Good luck!

https://www.amazon.com/Manhattan-GMAT-Si ... 02&sr=8-16