Your first session focuses on understanding your goals, assessing your strengths and weaknesses, and creating a personalized study plan. A tutor will likely review a practice test or diagnostic to identify which sections (Quantitative, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning, or Analytical Writing) need the most attention. This foundation helps you make the most of every subsequent session.

The Quantitative section challenges many test-takers because it requires both math skills and strategic problem-solving under time pressure. However, the Verbal section—particularly Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning—trips up students who haven't practiced active reading strategies. A tutor can diagnose which section is your biggest obstacle and develop targeted strategies to improve accuracy and pacing.

Pacing is one of the most common challenges because the GMAT is adaptive—harder questions take longer but are worth more points. Effective strategies include knowing when to guess strategically, practicing with realistic time limits, and learning which question types you can solve quickly versus those requiring more thought. Tutors help you develop a personalized pacing plan based on your strengths, so you maximize points without running out of time.

Most students benefit from taking 4-6 full-length practice tests spaced throughout their study period, with the final test 1-2 weeks before the actual exam. Practice tests serve two purposes: they build stamina and familiarity with the test format, and they reveal patterns in your mistakes so you can target weak areas. Tutors can help you analyze each practice test strategically rather than just reviewing your score.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or uncertain about question formats—both things tutoring directly addresses. By practicing under timed conditions, mastering specific strategies, and building confidence through targeted skill-building, you reduce the unknown factors that fuel anxiety. Tutors also teach mental techniques like managing negative self-talk and maintaining focus during the actual test.

Look for tutors with strong GMAT scores (typically 700+), proven experience helping students improve, and expertise in the specific sections you need help with. Ideally, they should understand both the content and test-taking psychology—knowing not just how to solve problems but how to teach you to solve them efficiently under pressure. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who meet these standards and can tailor instruction to your learning style.

Most students benefit from 8-12 weeks of focused preparation, though this varies based on your starting score and target. Students aiming for top-tier MBA programs typically study longer and more intensively than those targeting a specific minimum score. A tutor can help you create a realistic timeline in your first session and adjust your study plan as you progress through practice tests.