Expert GMAT Guidance from BITS School of Management

In the ever-evolving world of graduate business education, one question remains prominent in the minds of aspirants: does the GMAT still hold value in a changing admissions landscape? With some schools shifting toward test-optional policies and others doubling down on quantitative rigor, it can be difficult to know whether to invest the considerable time and effort required to excel on the GMAT.

To address these uncertainties, we draw on insights from Narottam Kishore, Head of Admissions and Outreach at the BITS School of Management (BITSoM), a rising name among Indian business schools. In this first part of our series, we unpack why the GMAT remains a critical benchmark, particularly at institutions like BITSoM, and how candidates can benefit by strategically integrating the test into their application journey.

The Case for the GMAT in Business School Admissions

Standardized tests have long played a role in leveling the playing field, allowing admissions committees to compare candidates from diverse academic and professional backgrounds. According to Kishore, this remains one of the strongest arguments for the GMAT today.

At BITSoM, the GMAT serves as an objective barometer of academic aptitude. Unlike undergraduate transcripts, which can vary significantly in grading standards, course content, and rigor, the GMAT provides a uniform platform to assess critical reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and verbal skills.

This standardization is especially important in global or nationally competitive applicant pools, where students hail from myriad universities with differing academic benchmarks. A 9.0 GPA from one college may not hold the same weight as a 7.5 from another unless a standardized comparison is available. Here, the GMAT acts as an equalizer, allowing for a more accurate comparison of cognitive and analytical aptitude.

How BITSoM Uses the GMAT in Evaluating Candidates

BITSoM’s admissions philosophy rests on identifying individuals who are likely to thrive in a demanding, multidisciplinary academic environment. According to Kishore, while a candidate’s undergraduate performance and work experience offer some insight into their capabilities, these alone are insufficient.

The GMAT provides key evidence of whether a candidate can handle the quantitative rigor and analytical depth required in the MBA program. This is not limited to the quant section alone. The integrated reasoning and verbal reasoning sections also play crucial roles in gauging how well a candidate can process complex information, draw conclusions, and communicate ideas effectively.

Additionally, Kishore highlights that BITSoM looks for proof of a candidate’s readiness to embrace the MBA journey not just academically, but holistically. The GMAT, with its unique combination of analytical writing, reasoning, and math, gives admissions officers a multidimensional view of an applicant’s skill set.

GMAT as a Predictor of Academic Success

One of the most compelling reasons BITSoM continues to place emphasis on the GMAT is its predictive validity. Numerous studies have shown that GMAT scores correlate strongly with academic performance during the first year of business school.

Kishore underscores that for BITSoM, the GMAT is not merely a gatekeeping mechanism. It is an essential tool that helps the admissions team gauge whether an applicant will be able to keep pace with the academic demands of the program. High GMAT scorers typically demonstrate not only strong reasoning abilities but also the discipline and focus needed to succeed in a high-pressure learning environment.

While the GMAT does not tell the full story of a candidate, it adds a valuable data point that strengthens the overall assessment. In this way, it supports a more comprehensive and fair evaluation.

Addressing the Myth: Can the GMAT Be Improved Upon?

A common concern among MBA hopefuls is whether they can meaningfully improve their GMAT score, especially if they struggle initially. Kishore dispels this myth emphatically. In his words, the GMAT is one of the few components of the application that can be improved within a relatively short time frame, unlike academic records or extracurricular achievements which are accrued over years.

Through focused preparation and a structured study plan, candidates can improve significantly—even over the course of a few months. This adaptability makes the GMAT a powerful tool for motivated individuals who may be seeking to strengthen their application or compensate for a weaker academic record.

Moreover, the GMAT’s flexible testing options allow candidates to take the exam on a date that best aligns with their preparation. Unlike university deadlines, which are fixed and often unforgiving, the GMAT empowers test-takers to prepare at their own pace and choose a timeline that suits them.

Preparation Strategy: Six Months to Success

When it comes to GMAT preparation, Kishore recommends starting at least six months before the intended business school application deadline. This time frame gives candidates ample space to prepare deeply, take practice exams, and retake the test if necessary.

A key piece of advice he offers is to commit to a specific test date early on. Many candidates falter because they delay selecting a date, which in turn affects their motivation and study consistency. By choosing a “D-Day” in advance, applicants can create a sense of urgency and structure their study schedules around a clear goal.

This approach not only promotes accountability but also reinforces focus. Knowing the exact date of the test instills discipline and encourages a more rigorous approach to study, ultimately leading to better results.

The Role of the GMAT in Enhancing Your Profile

Apart from its evaluative function, the GMAT can also serve as a valuable enhancer of your MBA application. A strong score signals to schools that you are serious about your aspirations and willing to invest in your preparation.

It also offers a chance for redemption. Candidates with average or inconsistent academic records can use a high GMAT score to counterbalance past weaknesses. In this way, the GMAT can help you reframe your academic narrative and present yourself as a high-potential applicant.

In competitive admissions environments, every advantage counts. While not all schools weigh the GMAT equally, most still consider it a significant factor. For candidates applying to top-tier institutions—whether in India or abroad—a strong GMAT score can serve as the tipping point that elevates your profile above similarly qualified applicants.

Psychological Readiness and GMAT Discipline

Preparing for the GMAT is not just about mastering math and grammar. It is a test of mental discipline and endurance. Kishore emphasizes that GMAT preparation cultivates habits of perseverance, time management, and logical reasoning—all of which are essential to business school success.

In many ways, the preparation journey mirrors the challenges of the MBA program itself. By navigating the demands of GMAT prep, candidates often begin building the very skill set they’ll rely on during their business school experience. This preparatory phase can thus act as a primer, preparing candidates mentally and emotionally for the academic rigors ahead.

GMAT vs. Alternatives: Why It Remains a Strong Choice

In recent years, alternative assessments like the GRE have gained traction among MBA programs. Yet many institutions, including BITSoM, continue to prefer the GMAT for one reason—it was designed specifically for business school admissions.

The GMAT’s focus on analytical reasoning, data interpretation, and complex problem-solving is closely aligned with the demands of MBA coursework. For schools aiming to select students who are not just intellectually capable but also business-minded, the GMAT remains the more relevant indicator.

While BITSoM does accept other test scores, candidates submitting GMAT results often gain an edge in the review process, especially when their scores align with the school’s academic expectations.

A Message to Prospective Applicants

As the admissions window approaches, Kishore offers an encouraging message to candidates preparing to embark on their MBA journeys. He reminds applicants that a strong GMAT score is well within reach for those who commit wholeheartedly to the process.

More importantly, he emphasizes that the GMAT is not something to fear, but to embrace. It represents an opportunity—not only to distinguish oneself among other applicants but also to demonstrate commitment, capability, and the resilience required to succeed in a top-tier MBA program.

For anyone considering BITSoM or any competitive business school, starting early, building a robust study plan, and committing to a test date are the most crucial steps toward success.

we will explore actionable GMAT preparation strategies. We will delve into study techniques, recommended timelines, key resources, and insights from top scorers who have cracked the GMAT code. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or looking to boost your current performance, the next installment will equip you with the tools to move from planning to execution.

Stay tuned as we guide you further into the world of MBA preparation—with a focus on how the GMAT, when approached strategically, can transform your application narrative.

Strategies, Resources, and Study Plans

Having understood why the GMAT remains a pivotal part of MBA admissions, particularly through the lens of BITSoM’s approach, the next essential step is preparing to conquer the exam itself. The GMAT is a challenging test, but it is far from insurmountable. With a well-structured plan, focused study, and the right resources, candidates can significantly boost their performance.

In this article, we explore practical strategies for GMAT preparation, examine how to develop an effective study schedule, and highlight tools and techniques to maximize your score.

Understanding the GMAT Structure and Sections

Before diving into preparation strategies, it is crucial to understand the exam’s format. The GMAT consists of four key sections:

Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA): This section requires writing an essay analyzing an argument. It assesses critical thinking and communication skills.
Integrated Reasoning (IR): This measures your ability to evaluate information presented in multiple formats, including graphics, tables, and text.
Quantitative Reasoning: Focused on problem-solving and data sufficiency questions, this section tests mathematical skills and logical reasoning.
Verbal Reasoning: This evaluates reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction skills.

Each section has a time limit and contributes to your overall score, which ranges from 200 to 800. Most business schools place the greatest emphasis on the quantitative and verbal scores, but neglecting AWA and IR is not advisable, as they form a complete profile of your skills.

Assessing Your Baseline: Take a Diagnostic Test Early

A common mistake among GMAT aspirants is to jump straight into studying without gauging their starting point. Taking an initial diagnostic test is essential for several reasons:

Identify Strengths and Weaknesses: A diagnostic test reveals which areas require more attention, helping you tailor your study plan efficiently.
Familiarize with Test Format: Understanding the question types and time constraints early on reduces anxiety on the actual test day.
Set Realistic Goals: Knowing your baseline score allows you to set incremental targets and measure progress over time.

Many free GMAT diagnostic tests are available online through reputable sources. Choose one that mimics actual GMAT conditions to get the most accurate assessment.

Crafting a Personalized Study Plan

Once you know your strengths and weaknesses, the next step is to build a study plan that fits your lifestyle and target test date. Kishore’s recommendation of starting preparation at least six months before applications is ideal, but preparation can be adjusted based on individual circumstances.

Consider these factors when creating your study plan:

Daily Study Time: Consistency beats cramming. Even dedicating one to two hours daily is more effective than long, irregular sessions.
Balanced Focus: Allocate time proportional to your weaker areas but continue practicing strengths to maintain overall performance.
Practice Tests: Schedule regular full-length practice exams under timed conditions to build stamina and refine test-taking strategies.
Review Sessions: Simply completing practice questions isn’t enough. Diligently review mistakes to understand gaps in knowledge or reasoning.

Many top scorers emphasize that GMAT preparation is as much about quality and focused study as it is about quantity.

Essential Resources for GMAT Preparation

Choosing the right study materials is vital. The market is flooded with books, courses, apps, and tutors, making it difficult to pick the best ones. Below is a curated list of resources that balance comprehensive content with proven effectiveness:

Official GMAT Guides: These are indispensable as they provide authentic practice questions and explanations directly from the test makers.
Quantitative and Verbal Prep Books: Publishers like Manhattan Prep, Kaplan, and The Princeton Review offer detailed guides that break down concepts and question types.
Online Practice Platforms: Websites such as GMAT Club and Beat The GMAT offer community discussions, question banks, and adaptive quizzes.
Mobile Apps: Apps enable study on-the-go and can reinforce concepts through flashcards, timed drills, and quick lessons.
Prep Courses and Tutors: For candidates seeking structured guidance, enrolling in prep courses or hiring tutors can provide personalized feedback and discipline.

It’s important not to overwhelm yourself by jumping between too many resources. Select a few that fit your learning style and stick with them.

Effective Study Techniques to Boost Your Score

Preparation is not merely about covering content; it’s about building the mental frameworks and strategies needed to tackle complex GMAT questions efficiently.

Here are some techniques frequently recommended by successful test-takers:

1. Focus on Conceptual Understanding

Memorization won’t help you much with GMAT problems, especially in the quant and verbal sections. Understanding underlying principles is critical.

For example, in quantitative reasoning, instead of just learning formulas, grasp why they work and how to apply them flexibly.

2. Master Time Management

The GMAT is a test of both accuracy and speed. Many candidates lose points by rushing or spending too long on difficult questions.

Practice pacing yourself by timing each section during mock tests. Develop a sense of when to skip and return to challenging questions.

3. Build Analytical Reasoning Skills

Integrated Reasoning and critical reasoning in verbal require sharp analytical skills. Practice breaking down arguments, spotting assumptions, and evaluating data carefully.

4. Use Error Logs

Maintain a detailed log of questions you get wrong or struggle with. Review this log regularly to identify patterns and avoid repeating mistakes.

5. Simulate Real Test Conditions

Taking practice tests in quiet environments, adhering to time limits, and minimizing distractions condition your mind for the actual test day.

Overcoming Common Challenges

GMAT preparation is demanding, and aspirants often encounter hurdles ranging from math anxiety to time constraints.

Dealing with Math Anxiety: Many candidates feel intimidated by the quantitative section. Building confidence through gradual exposure and reinforcing basics can alleviate fear.
Balancing Work and Study: For working professionals, carving out consistent study time can be tough. Setting a fixed daily schedule, even if short, helps build momentum.
Handling Setbacks: It is normal to have low scores initially or to struggle with certain sections. Persistence and adapting your approach based on feedback are key.

Kishore’s insight about the GMAT being an exam that can be improved upon with dedication is reassuring here. The test rewards steady effort and strategic preparation.

Scheduling Your GMAT Test: Picking the Right Date

Once you have a study plan underway, deciding when to take the GMAT is a critical step. Consider the following when selecting your test date:

Preparation Readiness: Ensure you have covered all sections adequately and have taken at least one full-length practice test with a score close to your target.
Application Deadlines: Plan to take the GMAT early enough to allow for retakes if needed before your application deadlines.
Personal Commitments: Avoid scheduling tests during stressful periods such as work deadlines or family events.

The flexibility of year-round test availability allows candidates to select dates that align best with their preparation and application timeline.

The Role of Mock Tests and Retakes

Regular full-length mock exams are arguably the most effective way to prepare. They help with time management, build endurance, and reduce test-day anxiety.

If your first GMAT score falls short of your goal, don’t be discouraged. Many candidates improve significantly on subsequent attempts by analyzing their performance and refining their strategy.

Remember that business schools typically consider your highest GMAT score, and multiple attempts show perseverance.

Developing a Growth Mindset for GMAT Success

Beyond tactics and content, your mindset plays a crucial role in your GMAT journey. Adopting a growth mindset—the belief that abilities can improve with effort—enables you to face challenges positively.

Instead of being daunted by difficult questions or initial low scores, view them as opportunities to learn and improve. Celebrate small progress milestones and stay motivated by reminding yourself of your MBA ambitions.

Summary and Next Steps

Effective GMAT preparation is a blend of self-assessment, disciplined study, strategic practice, and mental resilience. The journey requires commitment but rewards candidates with a skill set that extends beyond the test itself—critical thinking, problem-solving, and time management.

In summary:

Understand the exam structure and take a diagnostic test early.
Build a personalized, balanced study plan starting ideally six months ahead.
Choose quality resources and focus on conceptual clarity.
Use mock tests and error analysis to sharpen skills.
Set a realistic test date aligned with your preparation and application goals.

Crafting a Winning MBA Application – Beyond the GMAT Score

Acquiring a strong GMAT score is a critical milestone on your MBA journey, but it’s only one part of a comprehensive application. Business schools like BITSoM look for well-rounded candidates who demonstrate intellectual rigor, leadership potential, clarity of purpose, and cultural fit.

In this final article, we will explore how to leverage your GMAT success, craft persuasive essays, showcase your professional and personal experiences, and prepare for interviews that make a memorable impression.

Understanding the Holistic Admissions Approach

Top business schools do not admit students based solely on GMAT scores. Instead, they evaluate candidates through multiple lenses:

Academic potential: Demonstrated through GMAT, undergraduate performance, and sometimes prior academic achievements.
Professional experience: Quality, progression, and relevance of work experience, including leadership roles and impact.
Personal qualities: Leadership potential, teamwork, resilience, ethics, and cultural fit with the school.
Career goals: Clarity and feasibility of post-MBA ambitions.

This holistic review ensures that admitted students will thrive not only academically but also contribute meaningfully to the campus community and beyond.

Positioning Your GMAT Score Strategically

A strong GMAT score supports your candidacy by validating your quantitative and verbal abilities objectively. Here’s how to best position it:

Highlight it in your resume and application forms where appropriate.
Address any discrepancies if your academic records don’t fully reflect your abilities, using the score as evidence of your aptitude.
If you retook the exam, consider explaining your improvement story to show perseverance and dedication.
Don’t overemphasize it: Remember, schools value your entire profile, not just numbers.

Writing Impactful Essays

Essays give you the rare opportunity to speak directly to admissions committees. Here’s how to craft essays that stand out:

1. Reflect Deeply on Your Story

Authenticity resonates. Reflect on your unique journey, motivations, challenges, and achievements. Admissions committees want to understand who you are beyond statistics.

2. Align with School Values

Research the school’s mission, culture, and program specifics. Tailor your essays to demonstrate how you align with their values and how you will contribute.

3. Showcase Growth and Learning

Highlight pivotal moments where you learned, grew, or changed perspective. Show maturity and self-awareness.

4. Clearly Articulate Career Goals

Explain your short- and long-term goals with clarity and realism. Demonstrate how the MBA is essential for this trajectory.

5. Proofread and Seek Feedback

Poor grammar or generic essays can harm your chances. Review multiple drafts and seek input from mentors or coaches.

Leveraging Work Experience and Leadership

Work experience is a cornerstone of your application. BITSoM and other leading schools value candidates who have demonstrated:

Progressive responsibilities: Showing your ability to grow and take on challenges.
Leadership potential: Whether formal or informal, instances where you led teams, projects, or initiatives.
Impact: Concrete examples of contributions that made a difference in your organization.
Learning from setbacks: Stories of resilience and problem-solving in adversity.

Use your resume and essays to weave these elements together into a cohesive narrative.

Recommendations That Reinforce Your Profile

Strong letters of recommendation provide an external validation of your abilities and character. Tips for securing compelling recommendations:

Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your professional skills and leadership potential.
Provide them with context about your goals and key achievements to help them write detailed, personalized letters.
Ensure they submit recommendations well before deadlines.

Preparing for the Interview

The interview is often the final and decisive stage in admissions. It is your chance to demonstrate interpersonal skills, passion, and fit.

Interview Preparation Tips:

Practice common MBA interview questions, such as motivations, leadership experiences, challenges faced, and career goals.
Be concise but expressive: Communicate clearly without rambling.
Demonstrate enthusiasm and self-awareness: Show genuine interest in the program and insight into your strengths and areas for growth.
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask interviewers, reflecting your research and curiosity.

Overcoming Common Application Pitfalls

Avoid these mistakes to strengthen your application:

Submitting generic essays that lack personalization.
Overemphasizing GMAT score while neglecting other components.
Ignoring school-specific requirements or culture.
Poor proofreading leading to errors.
Failing to demonstrate career clarity or motivation.

The Importance of Early and Organized Application Planning

A well-planned application process reduces stress and allows time for refinement. Some best practices include:

Starting application preparations several months before deadlines.
Tracking each school’s requirements carefully.
Setting internal deadlines for drafts, recommendations, and tests.
Building a support network of mentors, peers, or admission counselors.

The MBA Journey Beyond Admission

Getting admitted is just the beginning. The GMAT preparation, application process, and the MBA program itself are transformational journeys that shape not only your professional trajectory but also your personal growth. These experiences challenge you to develop critical thinking, enhance problem-solving abilities, and cultivate leadership qualities that are essential in today’s dynamic business environment.

The rigorous curriculum and collaborative atmosphere expose you to diverse perspectives, helping you build a global mindset and deepen your understanding of complex business issues. Along the way, you forge invaluable relationships with peers, faculty, alumni, and industry leaders—networks that will support and influence your career for years to come.

Remember, the journey demands more than academic excellence. It requires resilience to overcome setbacks, adaptability to embrace change, and self-awareness to continuously improve. Admissions experts like Narottam Kishore emphasize that success stems from a combination of persistence, strategic preparation, and authentic storytelling. Your genuine narrative and clear vision will resonate far beyond test scores and resumes.

Ultimately, an MBA is not just a credential; it is a transformative chapter that equips you with the mindset and skills to lead with impact. Approach each stage with determination and purpose, and you will emerge ready to seize new opportunities and drive meaningful change in your chosen field.

Embrace the Journey Beyond the GMAT

Achieving a strong GMAT score is a significant milestone, but it is merely the gateway to a larger transformative experience. The entire journey—from preparation to application to the MBA program itself—is designed to broaden your intellectual horizons, sharpen your leadership skills, and expand your professional network. These elements collectively prepare you to excel in an increasingly complex and interconnected business world.

As Narottam Kishore and other admissions leaders highlight, success in this journey depends not only on academic aptitude but also on persistence, thoughtful preparation, and authentic self-expression. Your ability to clearly articulate your goals and demonstrate your unique strengths will set you apart.

Remember, an MBA is more than a degree—it is an investment in your future and a catalyst for personal and professional growth. Approach every stage with intention and resilience, and you will position yourself to thrive in business school and beyond. The effort you put in today lays the foundation for a career filled with opportunity, impact, and fulfillment.

Final Thoughts:

Embarking on the MBA journey requires a multifaceted approach—starting with thorough GMAT preparation and culminating in a compelling, well-rounded application. While the GMAT score is a vital indicator of your academic readiness, it is equally important to present a holistic profile that showcases your leadership potential, professional achievements, and personal values.

Strategic planning, early preparation, and continuous self-assessment are key to managing the complexities of the application process. Make use of available resources, seek guidance from mentors, and engage deeply with each component of your application, from essays to interviews. Authenticity remains your greatest asset; admissions committees look for candidates who can communicate their genuine motivations and demonstrate a clear vision for their future.

Remember that the MBA is not just a credential but a transformative experience that shapes your approach to business and leadership. The skills you develop and the connections you make during this journey will serve as invaluable tools throughout your career.

By approaching this process with dedication and insight, you not only enhance your chances of admission to prestigious institutions but also set the stage for a rewarding and impactful professional life.