For a 5-week program, most students benefit from 10-15 hours of independent study per week alongside their instructional sessions. This includes completing practice problems, reviewing explanations, taking full-length practice tests, and drilling weak question types. Your tutor will provide a customized study schedule that fits your timeline and identifies which areas need the most focus, so you're using your time efficiently rather than studying everything equally.

Many students struggle with pacing—the GRE gives you about 90 seconds per question, which requires quick decision-making without sacrificing accuracy. Data interpretation, geometry, and higher-level algebra also trip up test-takers who haven't practiced these specific formats. Working with a tutor helps you identify which question types slow you down, learn efficient solving strategies, and build the confidence to recognize when to skip and return to a problem rather than getting stuck.

The Verbal section rewards both vocabulary knowledge and reading comprehension strategy. A focused 5-week program typically includes targeted vocabulary building, practice with dense academic passages, and strategies for tackling different question types (reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence). Regular practice tests reveal which passage types and question formats challenge you most, allowing your tutor to concentrate on those areas and build your speed and accuracy.

Most students take 3-4 full-length practice tests during a 5-week program—ideally spaced out so you can review and learn from each one. The first test establishes your baseline and identifies weak areas; middle tests let you track progress and refine strategies; the final test simulates actual test-day conditions. Between full tests, you'll also complete targeted practice sets for specific question types, giving you a mix of focused drills and comprehensive assessments.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliarity with the test format and uncertainty about your abilities. Personalized instruction helps you build confidence through repeated exposure to GRE-style questions, timed practice, and proven test-taking strategies. Your tutor can teach you pacing techniques, help you recognize when to move on from difficult questions, and provide feedback on full-length practice tests so you feel prepared and in control on test day.

The Analytical Writing section requires you to analyze an argument and present your own perspective—both under strict time limits. Success depends on quickly identifying logical flaws, organizing your thoughts clearly, and writing grammatically correct prose. In a 5-week program, you'll practice essay structure, learn to spot common argument weaknesses, and get feedback on your writing from someone experienced with GRE scoring standards, helping you develop the clarity and precision that earn higher scores.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors in Tulsa who specialize in GRE prep and understand the specific challenges you're facing. When you share your goals, timeline, and current strengths and weaknesses, you'll be matched with a tutor whose teaching style and expertise align with your learning needs. This personalized approach ensures your 5-week program is tailored to your goals rather than following a one-size-fits-all curriculum.