Business school hopefuls scour the internet for the success stories, those underdogs who aced the GMAT exam or the student who found a study trick that earned them a top score. At the same time, every test-taker wonders if their story will end so well. Scoring over a 700 on the GMAT is absolutely possible, but it isn’t easy or accidental. So, do you have it in you? What exactly does it take to score that high? Here are three choices you need to make if you want to be in the exclusive 700+ club.

There’s No Magic, Only Perseverance

This should go without saying, but there’s no magic code or secret shortcut for a great GMAT score. If someone gets a 700 or higher, they’ve earned it. As with most things in life, there will be some students who find the material more intuitive and therefore easier. But don’t let anyone trick you into thinking that a high score won’t take hard work. Instead of looking for shortcuts, buckle down and commit to the best studying you can manage. By prioritizing hard work, you’ll be amazed at your rapid and significant progress.

Be Strategic in Your Studies

GMAT-takers who score above a 700 don’t waste time. In fact, they are often extremely regimented in their study structure. Rather than seeking to understand every theory and possibility on the GMAT exam, focus instead on the set of concepts that will help you analyze and quickly solve every problem. This list is both shorter and easier to digest. Additionally, be methodical in your approach. Work through related concepts together. Lastly, set aside plenty of time to study in one sitting. Nothing will stay in your head when you only focus for 10 minutes at a time.

Choose the Right Study Materials

With the plethora of options for GMAT prep, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure of how to proceed. While every set of materials will come with benefits, there’s really only one quality you need to look for: effectiveness. In other words, look for the study materials that work. For example, our EMPOWERgmat course comes with a 70 point guarantee. What does that mean? If you don’t get a 70 point improvement on your GMAT score after completing our course, you get your money back. Really! If your GMAT prep materials can’t promise to get you to your goals, it’s time to look elsewhere.

Obviously, everyone who takes the GMAT wants to score as high as possible. However, only an elite group are willing to do what it takes to get there. If you have your sights set on scoring a 700 or above, you’ll need a heavy dose of perseverance, the willingness to study with intention, and the very best of prep materials. With these tools, you will find yourself in an exclusive club of high-fliers. Find out more about our EMPOWERgmat course to get you on your way.