There are a variety of online resources available when it comes to preparing for the GMAT. The best GMAT prep course online is the one that offers a package that is best for YOU. The reviews on the courses may be outstanding, but if the program doesn’t work for you or mesh with your learning style, what's the point? The GMAT prep course you choose should be flexible and customizable, adapting to your progress as you continue the program.

Online GMAT prep courses can either follow a set schedule or allow you to set a pace. Most begin with a diagnostic test that will assess your strengths and weaknesses. They are structured, motivating, and because of technological advances, these programs focus on tests that directly benefit you. With so many reputable programs to choose from, how do you choose which online GMAT prep course to invest in? Here are the criteria you need to think about when considering the best GMAT prep option for you.

Score Goal

How much do you want or need to improve your GMAT score? If your score only needs slight development, choose a GMAT prep course online that targets a few of your major weaknesses through a self-paced study. If you’re hoping for an advancement of 100 points or more, you’ll need an in-depth GMAT prep course. Search for an online GMAT prep course that offers study plans, more hours of study, one-on-one instruction, and customized feedback.

Time

Time is of the essence when preparing for the GMAT. It's important to be realistic about what you can accomplish in the time you have available to study. Based on your schedule, what can you genuinely dedicate to intensive studying without becoming overwhelmed?

The standard time to spend on GMAT prep is three months. This will give you time to determine your strengths and weaknesses, find a regular study schedule, and target study sessions. If a three-month period is your intention, you should plan for ten hours of study time a week. If you plan to study for six months or more, choose a GMAT prep course online that will give you structure and routine. A longer study duration can sometimes cause you to lose focus. Therefore, an online course that provides detailed tests, feedback, and a variety of material is the best choice.

Instruction Style

As you choose a GMAT prep course online that is best suited for you, there are questions you need to answer related to your learning style.

·      Are you an audio or visual learner?

·      Can you study for hours uninterrupted or do you need intervals?

·      Do you learn from reading in-depth explanations or are you more of a hands-on learner with exercises from a previous GMAT test?

·      How have you successfully approached the things you found most difficult in the past?

A GMAT prep method that worked well for another applicant will not give you the same results. You must know how you process information and handle challenging situations.

Cost

Cost is always a consideration when choosing a GMAT prep course. GMAT prep courses online are less expensive than most private tutors. However, the price should not be the only consideration. The size of the investment you're making in an MBA program, and the GMAT prep that highly boosts your chances of being accepted and receiving financial assistance can be great motivations for expenditure.

Self-study is obviously the cheapest option, but you’re restricting yourself to limited opportunities and guidance of skills you’ll need to improve your score. Invest in your future by deciding on the right GMAT prep course online that best suits you. Many online programs offer specials and deals based on the prep you’re looking for.

Before you make a decision, do your research. At EMPOWERgmat we guarantee at least a 70-point improvement with our program. While the standard study plans usually require three-months of time, our Score Booster Study Plans help leverage the work you’ve already done by reinforcing it and showing you advanced GMAT tactics to help you succeed in two to six weeks. Take a course tour; your first 24 hours will be on us! Our full GMAT training program begins at only $99 a month.