Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment to identify your strengths and weaknesses across the Quantitative, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning, and Analytical Writing sections. The tutor will review your target score, timeline, and goals to create a personalized study plan. You'll also learn about the test format, question types, and pacing strategies specific to your needs.

The Quantitative section challenges many test-takers because it requires both math knowledge and strategic problem-solving under time pressure. The Verbal section—particularly Reading Comprehension—trips up students who haven't developed efficient reading strategies for dense business passages. A tutor can identify which sections are holding you back and teach targeted strategies like data sufficiency shortcuts or argument analysis frameworks.

Pacing is a skill that improves with practice and strategy. Tutors teach you to recognize question difficulty early, allocate time strategically, and know when to guess and move on. Regular practice tests under timed conditions help you build the rhythm needed for the actual exam, and working with a tutor helps you identify which question types consume too much of your time.

Most business school applicants spend 3-4 months preparing for the GMAT, dedicating 5-7 hours per week to focused study. Your timeline depends on your target score, starting point, and application deadlines. A tutor can help you build a realistic schedule that fits your life while ensuring consistent progress toward your goals.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliar question formats, uncertainty about strategy, or lack of confidence in your preparation. Tutors build confidence by demystifying the test, teaching proven strategies, and using practice tests to help you experience success under pressure. Knowing exactly what to expect and having a solid game plan significantly reduces anxiety on test day.

Practice tests reveal your actual strengths and weaknesses, help you identify pacing issues, and build stamina for the 3.5-hour exam. They also familiarize you with the adaptive test format, where question difficulty adjusts based on your performance. A tutor uses practice test results to guide your study plan and ensure you're improving in the right areas.

Look for tutors with strong performance on the GMAT themselves, proven experience helping students improve their scores, and knowledge of all four test sections. The best tutors understand the nuances of the adaptive format, can diagnose why you're missing questions (not just that you're missing them), and teach strategies tailored to your learning style. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who meet these standards and can help you achieve your target score.