Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment to understand your current strengths and weaknesses across the quantitative, verbal, and analytical writing sections. From there, a tutor will work with you to create a personalized study plan that fits your timeline and target score, then begin addressing your most pressing challenges.

Pacing is one of the biggest challenges GMAT test-takers face, and personalized tutoring addresses this through timed practice drills and strategic question-solving techniques specific to each section. Tutors teach you how to recognize question types quickly, when to guess strategically, and how to allocate your time across the exam so you're not rushing through the final questions.

Absolutely. Many students excel in one area and need targeted help in another—for example, strong verbal skills but struggling with data sufficiency or word problems. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who can focus entirely on your weakest section while you maintain momentum in areas where you're already strong.

Practice tests are essential—they help you understand question formats, build stamina for the full 3.5-hour exam, and identify patterns in where you're making mistakes. Most tutors recommend taking full-length practice tests every 1-2 weeks, then using those results to guide focused study sessions on the specific concepts and question types where you're losing points.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliarity with the format or uncertainty about your abilities. Working with a tutor helps you build genuine confidence through repeated exposure to real question types, timed practice, and mastery of challenging concepts. Many students find that knowing exactly what to expect and having a solid strategy reduces anxiety significantly by test day.

Most students benefit from 2-3 months of consistent preparation, though this varies based on your starting score and target. If you're aiming for a top business school, you might dedicate more time to reaching a competitive score. A tutor can help you create a realistic timeline based on your goals and current level, then adjust as needed based on practice test results.

Look for tutors with strong GMAT scores themselves, experience teaching test-taking strategies, and familiarity with business school admissions. Ideally, they've helped multiple students improve their scores and understand not just the content but the test's unique format and timing challenges. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who meet these standards and can adapt to your learning style.