The GMAT can feel like a daunting step in your postgraduate journey, especially when you’re juggling it with university coursework. As a postgraduate student at LSE who has taken the GMAT, I understand the anxiety such tests can cause. However, with the right preparation and mindset, they become manageable—and dare I say, even rewarding!

What is the GMAT?

For starters, the GMAT (and GRE) are standardised tests used globally for postgraduate applications, including specific MSc programmes at LSE. The GMAT measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and integrated reasoning, while the GRE covers similar areas but is tailored for broader academic disciplines. It’s important to check LSE’s programme requirements early, as not all programmes require these tests. While my MSc in Accounting, Organisations, and Institutions didn’t require the GMAT, I found it valuable since other programmes I applied to did.

My preparation journey

Planning ahead is essential because test slots can fill up quickly. The GMAT can be taken multiple times within a year, but balancing preparation with other commitments requires careful scheduling. I had to prepare during the middle of Autumn Term last year while balancing university coursework and sending postgrad applications on time. This required strict planning and dedication. Working with a tutor helped me stay on track and accountable, making the process more structured and less overwhelming. However, when it comes to creating a study plan, it’s important to find what works best for you. Working with a tutor is not mandatory in any way, and many prefer self-study through various online resources, especially if that fits their schedule or style of learning better.

I prepared for the GMAT for around four months. If you were under a limited time frame like me, you know that focusing on weaker areas is key. Quantitative reasoning especially proved to be a challenge, as calculators cannot be used during the GMAT (you might want to rehearse your basic algebra! I know I had to), while verbal reasoning was my strength. I dedicated more time to the quantitative section while maintaining confidence in my verbal abilities. This pushed me to improve my mental maths skills, and in the end, my strong performance in the verbal section balanced out my overall score, highlighting how the test rewards strengths across different areas. Simulating test conditions during practice, such as timing sections and working without calculators, was incredibly beneficial.

On test day, staying calm is vital. Arriving early at the test centre and having a balanced breakfast can set a positive tone for the day. Resources like Kaplan and MBA.com also offer practical tips for maximizing performance. Preparation helped me feel more confident going in, even though the GMAT was still challenging. Knowing that I had put in the work allowed me to focus and perform to the best of my ability.

Not just academics

Beyond the test itself, taking the GMAT was worth it for several reasons. It revealed my strengths in verbal reasoning and helped improve my quantitative skills, which are now helpful in my MSc programme, but also in my job search, as it helped me understand which positions I am best suited for. The experience gave me a clearer sense of what I’m good at and where I can grow, making it valuable even for programmes that don’t explicitly require it. As cliché as it sounds, I really encourage you to view the test not just as an admissions requirement, but as an opportunity for personal and academic growth.

In summary, if you’re planning on applying to an MSc programme here at LSE that requires the GMAT, here are your main takeaways: plan early, focus on your weaknesses, and use resources like tutors or online tools. Whether your dream programme requires it or not, preparing for it can still be a worthwhile investment in your future.