GMAT study groups | Weighing the pros and cons

Introduction

The GMAT is a crucial step for individuals aspiring to enter management schools, but scoring well in this exam requires dedicated study and practice. 

Many test-takers believe that joining a GMAT study group can enhance their chances of success, but is it truly beneficial? While being part of a study group is not inherently a bad idea, its effectiveness depends on various factors, including your target GMAT score and available preparation time. 

In this article, we will delve into the concept of group-based learning for GMAT and thoroughly explore the pros and cons of participating in GMAT study groups. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of whether joining a study group aligns with your GMAT preparation goals. 

Advantages of a GMAT study group

Here are some primary advantages you can achieve through a GMAT study group-

Helps in tackling difficult topics 

During your GMAT preparation, you may encounter challenging topics or questions that leave you perplexed. In such instances, having a GMAT study group can be immensely beneficial. It provides a platform to discuss those difficult questions or topics with your peers. Collaboratively, you can work on solving the questions together and gain a better understanding of the underlying concepts. 

Engaging in these discussions exposes you to different approaches and perspectives, offering valuable insights that can prove useful during the actual GMAT test. Through the collective wisdom of the study group, you can overcome obstacles, strengthen your skills, and enhance your overall preparation for the GMAT exam.

Acquire new skills 

In addition to studying and learning together, being part of a GMAT study group offers opportunities to develop various skills. As you prepare for the GMAT exam to enter a management course, strong social and communication skills are essential. Through active participation in a study group, you can enhance these skills and foster teamwork, a vital quality sought by employers. 

Moreover, engaging with peers in the study group nurtures leadership qualities and reinforces the importance of cooperation in accomplishing shared tasks. 

A scheduled way to study 

Group-based GMAT preparation offers the advantage of a structured schedule, providing a ready-made routine for your study sessions. If you thrive in an environment with a predetermined routine, opting for a GMAT study group is highly recommended. It helps you maintain a specific pace of study, ensuring consistent progress and accountability.

Furthermore, studying and learning in a group setting fosters a supportive environment where peers can assist each other. In cases where someone misses a class due to an emergency or medical issue, the study group becomes a valuable resource. They can rely on their peers to provide assistance and help cover the missed topics.

Share your GMAT journey with other aspirants 

When you become part of a GMAT study group, you experience a sense of belonging within the group. It becomes a supportive space where you can openly share your struggles, anxieties, and nervousness while also celebrating successes together. The camaraderie among group members provides valuable support when solving practice questions and completing mock question papers. Surrounding yourself with like-minded GMAT aspirants who share similar goals ensures continuous motivation throughout the preparation process, fostering healthy competition.

In addition, the collective gathering of GMAT study group participants offers a valuable opportunity to exchange tips, share notes, and seek advice from one another. These meetings become a forum for collaboration, enabling you to enhance your understanding and approach to the exam.

Disadvantages of GMAT study groups 

While studying in groups is a great way to sail through the GMAT prep, it might not work for some people. Therefore, it is always advised to balance group as well as individual study sessions. Here are some ways in which your preparation can be hampered if you’re only relying on group study sessions.  

It affects personalized learning 

Every individual learns at their own pace, and when you are part of a GMAT study group, the need to speed up or slow down to accommodate different learning speeds can hinder effective preparation for the GMAT exam. 

For some individuals, it is important to have a healthy and personalized approach to preparation tailored to their individual learning needs. They might find it difficult to efficiently learn in a study group.

Easy to get distracted 

Maintaining absolute focus and concentration can be challenging when studying in a group setting. While the aim is to discuss GMAT-related topics and enhance understanding, conversations may occasionally deviate, resulting in time being wasted on unrelated or casual subjects.

In such scenarios, individuals who prioritize productivity may prefer studying alone rather than in groups. The distractions and potential lack of focus that can arise during group study may hinder the desired results.

It may reduce the effectiveness and quality 

Obtaining a high score on the GMAT is undoubtedly challenging, yet it is a crucial pursuit for those aspiring to gain admission to top management schools. As the test date approaches, it may be advisable to prioritize individual study efforts, as participation in a GMAT study group can potentially hinder the creativity and efficiency of your preparation.

During the final stages of GMAT readiness, studying independently allows for greater flexibility in tailoring your study plan to target specific areas of improvement. It grants you the freedom to explore unique learning strategies and adapt your approach as needed, fostering a personalized and effective study experience.

Key takeaways 

• Participating in a study group can be a beneficial way to prepare for the GMAT examination.
• Like every preparation method, group-based learning comes with its own list of pros and cons.
• GMAT study groups offer the opportunity to share your journey with fellow aspirants, creating a supportive and comfortable learning environment.
• Group studies can provide structure to your preparation by encouraging regular study sessions at specific hours each week, especially when a proper schedule is lacking.
• It’s important to remain focused during group study sessions, as they can become distracting and lead to time wasted on unrelated topics. 

Studying for the GMAT in groups can offer numerous advantages. However, it is crucial to understand the problems that may accompany group study sessions. Ultimately, the decision to study individually or in a group should be based on your personal preferences and learning style. 

If you have doubts regarding the GMAT exam or require further assistance with your study abroad entrance test preparation, feel free to reach out to us. 

Liked this blog? Read more: GMAT accommodations | Who qualifies and how to apply?

FAQs 

Q1: What is the most effective GMAT study plan?

Answer: The most effective GMAT study plan varies for each individual, but key components include understanding the exam structure, assessing your current level, setting clear goals, creating a realistic study schedule, utilizing quality study materials, practicing regularly, and seeking additional resources such as prep courses or tutors. 

Q2: Is 740 GMAT good enough? 

Answer: If your GMAT score is between 700 and 740, then it is good enough to get into prestigious management schools. However, with a score of more than 740, you can easily get into the top business schools in the United States. If your destination is European management schools, then scoring anywhere between 650 and 740 will help you get into a good institution. 

Q3: Which is the toughest section of the GMAT? 

Answer: While the GMAT is a computer-adaptive test that adjusts to each individual candidate, making it fair for all, the level of difficulty can vary based on personal strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, it is subjective to determine the toughest section of the GMAT, as different individuals may find different sections challenging.