MBA Planning Series, Week 3: Mapping Out Your GMAT, GRE, and EA Test Journey

As you map out your MBA journey, one of the most critical milestones is preparing for the standardized tests that top business schools require. Whether you are targeting the GMAT, GRE, or the relatively new Executive Assessment (EA), thoughtful planning and early preparation are essential. Understanding the testing landscape, exam logistics, and your personal strengths can make all the difference in achieving the scores that open doors to elite programs.

If it has been a while since you last explored graduate admissions exams, you may be surprised by how much has changed. The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) remains the gold standard for most MBA programs, but many schools now accept the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), and a growing number also welcome the Executive Assessment (EA), especially for Executive MBA applicants.

The GMAT score is valid for five years, giving candidates flexibility to take the exam early and reuse their scores in multiple application cycles. You can take the GMAT up to five times in a rolling 12-month period, with a lifetime limit of eight attempts. Additionally, there must be at least 16 calendar days between your test dates. These policies allow you to retake the exam if your initial scores don’t reflect your best potential.

The GRE, often associated with a wider range of graduate programs, including business school, shares some similarities with the GMAT in terms of score validity—also five years. However, the GRE allows test-takers to attempt the exam once every 21 days, up to five times in any 12-month period. Unlike the GMAT, the GRE has no lifetime limit on the number of times you can take the test.

The Executive Assessment is a newer exam designed for experienced professionals applying to Executive MBA programs, though it is increasingly accepted by some full-time MBA programs. The EA is shorter and more focused on practical skills relevant to seasoned managers. Its brevity and format can make it an attractive choice for candidates with limited preparation time.

Which Schools Accept the Executive Assessment?

Several top-tier business schools have embraced the Executive Assessment for full-time MBA applications. These include prestigious institutions such as Wharton, MIT Sloan, Columbia Business School, Chicago Booth, Kellogg, NYU Stern, Yale School of Management, Duke Fuqua, Berkeley Haas, and UVA Darden. If you are pressed for time or prefer a more concise test experience, the EA might be a strategic option to consider.

The Impact of Score Cancellation and Multiple Attempts

One significant shift in MBA admissions testing is the ability to cancel your test score if you are unhappy with your performance. Cancelling means the school never receives your score report for that attempt, which has encouraged many applicants to take the exam multiple times to achieve their best result.

This flexibility has led to candidates sitting for the GMAT or GRE an average of two to four times, with some even attempting the exam more frequently. While this policy benefits individuals by giving them multiple chances, it has also caused the average scores reported to schools to rise, as lower scores are often cancelled and not submitted.

How the Pandemic Changed Test Preparation and Availability

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated changes in how and where standardized tests can be taken. Both the GMAT and GRE offer online testing options, allowing candidates to take the exams from home. The Executive Assessment is also available online.

Many schools adopted test waivers during the pandemic, allowing applicants to forgo standardized tests altogether in certain cases. While it is uncertain how long these waivers will remain in place, most experts believe that test scores will continue to play an important role in distinguishing applicants as programs return to more traditional admissions requirements.

Retake Policies for Online Exams

The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), which administers the GMAT and EA, has adapted retake policies for online exams. Candidates can take the GMAT Online exam twice, and these attempts count toward the yearly and lifetime limits, unless a technical issue is verified. Similarly, the EA Online exam can be taken up to two times. The GRE General Test at Home follows the same retake policies as its in-person counterpart.

Why Early Planning Is Crucial for MBA Test Success

Given the complexities of test formats, score validity, and retake policies, the key to maximizing your score lies in starting early. Your familiarity with the tested skills will be freshest closer to your undergraduate studies or recent professional experience, so postponing the exam unnecessarily can hinder your preparation.

Early test-taking also means you can spread out your study schedule and reduce the pressure of last-minute cramming. Since scores remain valid for five years, an early strong performance can set the foundation for your MBA application timeline.

Five Essential Tips for Maximizing Your MBA Test Score

To help you prepare effectively, consider these five important strategies that have guided countless successful MBA applicants.

Start Your Preparation Early

Even if your MBA plans feel distant, taking your first practice exam sooner rather than later offers valuable insight into your baseline skills. Early testing provides time to identify strengths and weaknesses, enabling you to tailor your study plan thoughtfully without rushing. Because scores last for several years, taking the exam early also allows room for retakes if needed.

Take a Diagnostic Practice Test

Before launching into full study mode, take a timed, realistic practice test to measure your current abilities. This initial assessment will reveal which areas require the most focus and help you gauge how far you are from your target score range. Knowing your starting point helps you build a practical and efficient study plan.

Develop a Structured Study Schedule

Consistency is key. Outline a realistic study plan that breaks down the weeks and hours you can commit. Spreading preparation over several months prevents burnout and helps solidify knowledge. A written schedule keeps you accountable and reduces the temptation to cram, which often results in diminished retention and lower performance.

Customize Your Study Approach to Your Learning Style

Understanding how you learn best can dramatically improve your prep efficiency. If you thrive with personalized coaching, consider working with a tutor who can offer targeted strategies and motivation. Others may prefer self-study through books or online courses. The variety of preparation resources available today means you can choose a path that suits your preferences and schedule.

Enhance Reading Comprehension and Vocabulary Regularly

Strong reading skills are critical, especially for the verbal sections of these exams. Make a habit of reading brief articles from reputable publications such as The Economist or scientific journals. This exercise expands your vocabulary and sharpens your ability to understand complex passages—an advantage that compounds over time with minimal daily effort.

How Professional Tutoring Can Elevate Your Preparation

While self-study works well for some, many candidates find that expert guidance accelerates progress and increases confidence. Tutors who have scored in the 99th percentile themselves understand the exam intricacies and can customize sessions based on your unique challenges and goals. They also provide invaluable advice on test selection, helping you decide whether the GMAT, GRE, or EA best fits your profile and target programs.

The GMAT, GRE, and Executive Assessment each have distinct rules, formats, and acceptance among business schools. Understanding these differences, along with test availability and retake policies, is vital for crafting a winning MBA test strategy. By starting early, taking diagnostic tests, adhering to a structured study plan, leveraging your preferred learning style, and maintaining a habit of reading challenging material, you can maximize your test score potential.

In the competitive MBA admissions environment, a well-prepared test performance is a powerful tool that can differentiate you from other applicants. Early and strategic planning will not only reduce stress but also improve your chances of securing a spot at your dream business school.

MBA Planning Week 3: Deepening Your GMAT, GRE, and EA Preparation Strategy

Having laid the groundwork in understanding the testing landscape, score policies, and the importance of early planning in Part 1, the next step in your MBA test preparation journey is to develop a detailed and personalized study approach. This phase focuses on creating a robust routine, selecting the right materials and resources, and building the mental stamina necessary for exam success.

Crafting Your Ideal Study Routine

One of the most common challenges MBA candidates face is balancing preparation with professional and personal commitments. To conquer this, establishing a consistent and sustainable study routine is critical.

Start by evaluating your daily and weekly schedule. Identify blocks of time where your focus is sharpest—whether early morning, late evening, or weekends. It’s better to study in shorter, frequent sessions than to cram long hours sporadically. Consistency leads to steady progress and helps with long-term retention.

It is also beneficial to incorporate varied study methods. For instance, combine content review, practice questions, and full-length practice exams throughout your study weeks. This mix keeps your preparation dynamic and prevents monotony, which can sap motivation.

Selecting Quality Study Resources

With countless prep books, apps, and courses available, choosing the right materials can be overwhelming. Start with the official resources provided by the test creators: GMAC for the GMAT and EA, and ETS for the GRE. These materials reflect the most accurate exam format and question style.

Supplement official resources with reputable prep books and online platforms that offer adaptive practice questions and video explanations. Many test prep companies also provide diagnostic tools and analytics to pinpoint weak areas, allowing you to focus your efforts more efficiently.

Consider investing in a prep course or private tutoring if you need structured guidance or accountability. The interaction with experienced instructors can clarify complex concepts, provide strategic test-taking techniques, and help manage test anxiety.

Building Mental Endurance and Test-Day Readiness

The GMAT, GRE, and EA are mentally demanding, requiring sustained focus for several hours. Developing mental endurance is as important as mastering content.

Practice taking full-length, timed exams under simulated test conditions. This includes sitting in a quiet space, strictly adhering to time limits, and using only allowed breaks. The goal is to acclimate your mind to the exam environment, reducing surprises and stress on test day.

In addition to physical stamina, work on cultivating mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Deep breathing, meditation, and visualization can improve concentration and calm nerves, ensuring you remain composed and confident.

Tailoring Your Approach to Your Target Schools

Each MBA program may prioritize different aspects of your application, including test scores. Research your target schools’ average admitted scores and how heavily they weigh standardized tests. Understanding these nuances allows you to set realistic score goals and avoid unnecessary stress.

Some programs value a balanced score across all sections, while others emphasize quantitative skills or verbal reasoning. Tailor your study focus accordingly, ensuring you allocate extra time to sections that matter most for your chosen schools.

Utilizing Score Reporting and Cancellation Policies Strategically

Score cancellation options provide flexibility but should be used wisely. Canceling a low score can prevent it from hurting your application, but repeatedly cancelling scores without improvement can signal a lack of preparation.

Plan your test attempts so that each sitting is well-prepared and purposeful. After each exam, analyze your results thoroughly to identify patterns of mistakes and adjust your study plan before scheduling a retake.

Remember that some schools allow applicants to see all scores, while others only consider the highest. Clarify these policies for your target programs to manage your test attempts effectively.

Understanding the Executive Assessment Advantage

For experienced professionals targeting Executive MBA programs, the EA offers a unique advantage. Its shorter length and focus on practical skills make it less daunting and more accessible for busy candidates.

Despite being a relatively new option, the EA has gained acceptance among many top schools. If your professional experience aligns well with the exam content and you seek to minimize disruption to your work schedule, the EA might be the right choice.

However, because fewer applicants take the EA, there is less data on score distributions, so consult admissions advisors or MBA coaches to evaluate whether it fits your profile and goals.

Leveraging Practice Tests for Continuous Improvement

Regular practice testing is essential not only to track progress but also to develop test-taking skills like pacing and question prioritization.

Schedule full practice tests at intervals throughout your preparation period. After each, spend ample time reviewing every question, focusing on errors and patterns rather than just the overall score.

Use results to recalibrate your study plan—intensify practice on weak areas and maintain strengths. This adaptive approach prevents plateauing and keeps your preparation targeted and effective.

Enhancing Verbal and Quantitative Skills Simultaneously

A common mistake is overemphasizing one section at the expense of the other. Balanced preparation is critical, as both verbal and quantitative scores contribute significantly to your overall test results.

For verbal skills, expand your vocabulary and practice reading comprehension regularly. Engaging with dense editorial and academic writing helps build critical reading skills.

For quantitative sections, review fundamental math concepts and practice applying them in problem-solving contexts. Focus on data sufficiency and quantitative reasoning questions, which often challenge test-takers.

Adopting a Growth Mindset Throughout Preparation

The path to a strong MBA test score is rarely linear. Expect setbacks and view them as opportunities for growth rather than failures.

Maintaining a positive attitude, resilience, and flexibility allows you to stay motivated even when progress seems slow. Reflect on your improvement over time and celebrate milestones to build confidence.

Surround yourself with a support system—study groups, mentors, or tutors—who encourage persistence and provide constructive feedback.

Integrating Test Prep With Overall MBA Application Planning

Your standardized test preparation should not exist in isolation but as part of a holistic MBA application strategy.

Align your testing timeline with application deadlines, ensuring you have scores ready in time for early rounds if you apply then. This coordination prevents last-minute stress and allows ample time to focus on essays, recommendations, and interviews.

Early testing also means you can dedicate more attention to crafting a compelling application narrative without being distracted by intense last-minute exam prep.

Developing a personalized, sustainable study routine and selecting high-quality resources are foundational to MBA test success. Combining mental endurance training with a strategic focus on your target schools’ requirements ensures efficient preparation.

Understanding score reporting policies and the Executive Assessment’s potential benefits can shape your test strategy. Regular practice testing, balanced skill development, and cultivating a growth mindset all contribute to steady progress.

By integrating your exam preparation with overall MBA application planning, you set yourself up for a smooth, confident journey toward your MBA goals.

MBA Planning Week 3: Final Steps to Mastering Your MBA Entrance Exam

As you approach the final stages of your MBA test preparation, it’s essential to shift focus from just acquiring knowledge to optimizing your test-taking strategies, managing stress, and ensuring you’re fully prepared for exam day. This phase is about fine-tuning, adapting, and strategizing to maximize your score and strengthen your overall application profile. In this guide, we will explore how to refine your approach, tackle common challenges, and put yourself in the best position to succeed.

Refining Your Test-Taking Techniques

After months of studying and practice, the next step is to develop a more strategic approach to answering questions efficiently and accurately. Time management during the exam is crucial, as many candidates struggle to complete all sections within the allotted time. Practicing pacing yourself can help prevent the common pitfall of spending too much time on difficult questions and leaving others unanswered.

When you encounter a challenging problem, it’s often more beneficial to make an educated guess and move on, rather than getting stuck and wasting precious minutes. Make a mental note or flag the question if the testing platform allows, so you can revisit it if time remains. This tactic helps ensure you answer the maximum number of questions, as incomplete sections can severely impact your score.

In addition, learning to recognize question types and when to apply shortcuts or estimation can save time. For example, quantitative problems might sometimes be solved faster by eliminating implausible answer choices or approximating rather than calculating precise values. Similarly, on verbal sections, scanning for keywords or phrasing can help identify the correct answer without rereading passages multiple times.

Overcoming Exam Day Anxiety and Fatigue

Nerves and exhaustion can sabotage even the best-prepared test takers. Managing stress effectively is a skill just as important as knowing the content. Develop a pre-exam routine that helps you feel calm and focused. This may include breathing exercises, meditation, or simply listening to music that relaxes you.

Ensure you get at least seven to eight hours of restful sleep the night before the exam. Avoid cramming new material last minute, as this can increase anxiety and decrease confidence. Eat a nutritious meal beforehand to maintain energy levels, steering clear of heavy or sugary foods that can cause crashes.

Arrive at the testing center early to allow time for check-in procedures and to settle in. Bringing necessary identification and materials in advance helps avoid last-minute stressors. If you are taking the exam remotely, set up your space well ahead of time and check your technology thoroughly.

During breaks, engage in light physical movement like stretching or walking to keep your blood flowing and prevent fatigue. Mindfulness or simple deep-breathing exercises can help maintain calm focus. Avoid excessive caffeine, which might spike anxiety or cause energy drops later.

Understanding Score Reports and Using Them Strategically

Once you receive your scores, carefully analyze how they align with your target MBA programs. Each school publishes average or median test scores for admitted students, which serve as benchmarks for competitiveness.

If your score meets or exceeds these averages, you can direct your energy toward other parts of your application, such as crafting compelling essays and preparing for interviews. A strong test score can offset other perceived weaknesses, making it a valuable asset.

If your scores are below target, consider the benefits and drawbacks of retaking the exam. Retesting can demonstrate improvement and resilience, but only if you are prepared to make meaningful gains. It is essential to identify weak areas from your score breakdown and focus your study efforts accordingly.

Keep in mind that schools sometimes view repeated low scores unfavorably, so avoid retaking without a clear plan for improvement.

Making Informed Decisions About Retaking the Exam

Retaking the GMAT, GRE, or EA is a personal decision that depends on timing, readiness, and application deadlines. If your schedule allows, and you believe you can improve with further study, a retake may enhance your overall candidacy.

Analyze your prior performance critically. Did you run out of time? Were there particular question types that gave you trouble? Did stress impair your focus? Understanding these factors can help tailor your next round of preparation.

Develop a targeted study plan that addresses specific weaknesses rather than repeating general review. Consider seeking professional tutoring or enrolling in a prep course to gain fresh insights and strategies.

Balance the desire for a better score with the realities of application timelines. A well-prepared retake weeks before submission deadlines can boost confidence and results, but last-minute attempts risk poor performance due to rushed preparation.

Navigating School Policies on Multiple Scores

MBA programs differ in how they evaluate multiple test scores. Some schools accept the highest score submitted, while others consider the average or all attempts, which can influence your retake strategy.

Research your target schools’ score policies thoroughly. If a school allows score choice, submit only your best results to present yourself in the best light. Conversely, if all scores are reported, aim to achieve a strong score early to avoid raising concerns over multiple attempts.

Understanding these policies helps prevent unnecessary retakes and shapes how you position your test results within your application package.

Leveraging Professional Support and Resources

Many candidates find that expert guidance significantly improves preparation outcomes. Experienced MBA admissions consultants and test tutors provide personalized feedback and help develop efficient study strategies.

A skilled tutor can identify your strengths and weaknesses, tailor practice sessions, and teach test-taking tricks that are difficult to uncover through self-study alone. They can also assist in deciding which exam (GMAT, GRE, or EA) best fits your profile and goals.

Admissions consultants provide insight into how test scores fit into the broader application context, helping you allocate time and effort effectively. Their support reduces stress and clarifies the path forward.

Final Week Preparation: Focus on Quality, Not Quantity

In the final week before your exam, shift from heavy studying to light review and mental preparation. This helps avoid burnout and maintains sharpness.

Limit full-length practice tests to early in the week to simulate exam conditions without excessive fatigue. Instead, practice shorter timed drills or flashcards focusing on formulas, vocabulary, or key concepts.

Prioritize relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety. Get ample sleep, stay hydrated, and maintain a healthy diet. Organize your exam materials—ID, confirmation emails, and allowed items—and confirm your test time and location.

For remote tests, test your computer, internet connection, and quiet environment to avoid last-minute technical problems.

Tips for Exam Day Success

On the day of your exam, start with a positive attitude. Remind yourself of the hard work and preparation you have invested.

Dress comfortably and in layers to adjust to the testing environment. Arrive early and avoid last-minute distractions.

During the exam, stay mindful of the clock, and pace yourself carefully. Don’t fixate on any one question—make educated guesses if needed and return later if possible.

Use breaks wisely to stretch, hydrate, and reset your focus. Keep stress low and maintain confidence in your abilities.

Reflecting Post-Exam and Planning Ahead

After completing your test, take time to reflect calmly on your performance. Regardless of how you think you did, recognize the commitment it took to reach this stage.

Begin focusing on the next steps in your MBA journey, including essay writing, interview preparation, and school research. Strong test scores will enhance these areas but don’t neglect them.

If you plan to retake, outline your improved study approach and set new goals based on your test experience.

Balancing Test Prep with Life Responsibilities

Maintaining balance during preparation is essential. Avoid sacrificing your health or personal relationships for last-minute cramming.

Incorporate breaks, exercise, and social activities into your schedule. Physical movement supports mental clarity and stamina, while time with friends and family provides emotional support.

This holistic approach increases productivity and reduces burnout, helping you sustain focus through demanding preparation periods.

Cultivating a Growth Mindset Throughout Your Preparation

One of the most valuable yet often overlooked aspects of MBA entrance exam preparation is cultivating a growth mindset. This means embracing challenges, viewing setbacks as opportunities for learning, and believing that your abilities can improve with effort and persistence. When you adopt this perspective, you are more likely to persevere through difficult topics, learn from mistakes in practice tests, and remain motivated even when progress feels slow.

Instead of being discouraged by lower scores or tough questions, analyze what went wrong and how you can adjust your strategy. Celebrate small victories and incremental improvements, as these build momentum and confidence. This mental resilience not only benefits your test preparation but also prepares you for the rigors and uncertainties of graduate-level business education and future leadership roles.

Integrating Soft Skills Development into Your MBA Preparation

While test scores are critical, business schools increasingly value candidates with strong soft skills such as communication, teamwork, leadership, and adaptability. Throughout your preparation, look for ways to develop and demonstrate these qualities.

Engage in group study sessions to hone collaboration and communication. Practice explaining complex concepts clearly, both verbally and in writing, which will also aid your interview performance. Participate in extracurricular activities, volunteer opportunities, or part-time work that involve leadership or problem-solving.

Integrating soft skills development with your exam preparation makes you a more holistic candidate. It signals to admissions committees that you possess not only academic aptitude but also the interpersonal and managerial abilities necessary for success in MBA programs and beyond.

Final Reflections on MBA Entrance Exam Preparation

Achieving a competitive score on your MBA entrance exam is a multifaceted challenge. It requires more than content knowledge—it demands disciplined study habits, strategic thinking, stress management, and thoughtful application of resources.

By continuously refining your test-taking approach, addressing weaknesses, and maintaining emotional resilience, you maximize your potential for success.

Remember, your test score is one part of a larger application picture. Complement it with strong essays, meaningful work experience, and compelling recommendations to create a well-rounded profile that stands out.

Your journey is as important as your destination. Approach it with patience, dedication, and confidence, and you will be well-prepared to enter the MBA programs of your choice.