How to Maximize Your GMAT or GRE Score for ISB Admissions

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Dreaming of joining the prestigious Indian School of Business (ISB)? You’re not alone. For many aspirants, securing a spot in ISB’s Post Graduate Programme (PGP) is a life-changing goal, offering professional growth, leadership opportunities, and global networking. With the final application deadline for the ISB PGP program (January 26, 2025) and ISB PGP for Young Leaders Round 2 (March 16, 2025) fast approaching, the excitement around ISB admissions is building… and so is the competition! In this competitive ISB MBA landscape, your GMAT or GRE score is a key factor that can significantly boost your chances. A strong score showcases your academic prowess and helps your application stand out while meeting ISB admissions and eligibility criteria.

Don’t worry! Whether you’re starting your GMAT or GRE prep or aiming to improve your score, this guide will share strategies to help you maximize your potential and make your ISB MBA dream a reality.

In this blog:

1. Setting a Target Score: What Does ISB Expect?
2. Crafting an Effective Study Plan for ISB Admissions
3. Getting a baseline
4. Practice regularly
5. Review explanations
6. Sectional Tests before Mock Tests
7. Importance of Mock Tests and Performance Analysis
8. Do’s and Don’ts while taking a GMAT or GRE Mock Test
9. Plan for Exam Day
10. Before the Test Day
11. On the Test Day
12. Beyond GMAT or GRE for a Strong ISB Application
13. Why Jamboree is Your Best Bet for ISB Admissions
14. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Setting a Target Score: What Does ISB Expect?

GMAT or GRE scores play a crucial role in ISB admissions, as they reflect your analytical and problem-solving abilities, essential for success in the rigorous ISB MBA curriculum. ISB doesn’t specify a cut-off for GMAT or GRE scores as part of the ISB eligibility criteria, but to be on the safer side, a simple formula is to add 20 points to the average GMAT or GRE score of the last batch. This approach helps you set a competitive target for ISB admissions.

On average, aiming for scores above the 90th percentile will keep you in a strong position. For GMAT, this typically means targeting a score of 655+, while for GRE, aiming for 325+ will enhance your chances of securing an ISB MBA seat.

Disclaimer: These scores cannot guarantee ISB admission, as other factors—including your essays, letters of recommendation, and performance in the interview—play a crucial role. However, being within this score range can significantly increase your chances of success.

Crafting an Effective Study Plan for ISB Admissions

Getting a baseline

Start by taking a free mock test, such as a Jamboree GMAT or GRE mock test, or the official GMAT or GRE mock test. Record your overall and sectional scores. This will give you insight into your current level of proficiency and highlight the areas that need the most attention. It also offers a chance to familiarize yourself with the test format and gauge your stamina during the exam.

Practice regularly

Establish a consistent study routine, dedicating time each day to practice GMAT or GRE questions. Focus on maintaining a strong grasp of the concepts rather than simply aiming for volume. Prioritize the areas where you scored poorly or feel less confident, ensuring a more targeted approach to improving your performance.

Review explanations

After each practice session, carefully review the explanations for both correct and incorrect answers. This will help you understand the reasoning behind each solution and deepen your understanding of the underlying concepts, enabling better retention and application of knowledge.

Sectional Tests before Mock Tests

By targeting individual sections in GMAT or GRE, you can identify and strengthen your weak spots more effectively, particularly under timed conditions, before moving on to full-length mock tests. This focused practice helps build accuracy, speed, and confidence in each section, ensuring a solid foundation. Once you’ve mastered the sections, mock tests become more effective in simulating real exam conditions and assessing your overall readiness.

Importance of Mock Tests and Performance Analysis

In addition to the initial mock test you take at the start of your preparation, it’s important to schedule at least 4-6 full-length GMAT or GRE mock tests towards the end of your study plan. If time allows, consider taking more. Ensure there’s at least a one-day gap between each mock test to give yourself time to review and improve. After each test, identify the gaps in your performance and focus on addressing them before attempting the next one. The goal is to avoid repeating the same mistakes, showing consistent progress with each subsequent test. Make sure to use high-quality mock tests to gain meaningful insights that can help refine your preparation for the prestigious ISB MBA.

Do’s and Don’ts while taking a GMAT or GRE Mock Test

• Do take your mock tests at the same time of day as your scheduled GMAT/GRE. For example, if your exam is booked for the evening slot, try to consistently take your practice tests in the evening to align your focus and energy levels with the actual test day.

• Do experiment with different section orders (only for GMAT) to determine which sequence helps you perform at your best, and stick to that sectional order on test day to avoid last minute shocks.

• Do learn to engage with the on-screen timer periodically to avoid panic through sections.

• Don’t take longer breaks than those allowed during the actual GMAT/GRE. Stick to the official break timings to build your stamina and simulate test-day conditions accurately.

• Don’t pause the test midway, even if you feel tired or distracted. It’s important to complete each mock in one sitting to develop the mental endurance required for the actual exam.

Plan for Exam Day

A well-thought-out exam day plan can help you stay calm, focused, and perform at your best.

Before the Test Day

• A quick review of key math formulas, rules of logic, and important vocabulary can really make a difference. Keep it simple and go through your notes diligently.

• Avoid cramming the night before. Instead, engage in relaxing activities, ensure a good night’s sleep, and maintain a positive mindset to keep your mind sharp.

• Confirm the test center location and appointment details, plan your route, and prepare necessary identification documents in advance to minimize stress on the day of the exam.

On the Test Day

• Arriving 45-60 minutes early at the test center gives you plenty of time to calmly go through all the formalities and avoid any last-minute rush.

• Take your time to read each question carefully so you fully understand what’s being asked. Often, misreading the question is the main reason people fall into trap answers.

• If you come across a problem that seems too difficult or time-consuming, don’t waste valuable time on it. Instead, eliminate the obviously wrong answers and choose the best option from what’s left.

• Use your breaks wisely to recharge, but also keep an eye on the clock so as not to exceed the break time.

Beyond GMAT or GRE for a Strong ISB Application

Apart from the GMAT or GRE, there are a few more things to keep in mind to boost your ISB application. First, make sure you meet the ISB eligibility criteria, which include having a solid academic background, at least two years of work experience, and a well-rounded profile. Don’t forget to showcase your leadership skills, achievements, and involvement in extracurriculars. ISB essay prompts let you highlight your strengths with real examples, so it’s important to go beyond just answering the questions and give a full picture of your personal and professional journey. And when it comes to interviews, practice your responses to highlight your strengths and experiences with confidence!

Why Jamboree is Your Best Bet for ISB Admissions

When it comes to acing the GMAT or GRE, coaching makes all the difference, and with Jamboree GMAT or GRE Classes, you’re in great hands! With 30+ years of experience, our top-notch faculty helps you pinpoint your weak spots and shape your strategy for the test. Plus, Jamboree has a solid track record with the highest number of 90th+ percentile scores! You’ll have access to over 2000 practice questions, 20+ sectional tests, and 6+ full-length tests—perfect for building your confidence. And with valuable insights from ISB alumni, Jamboree helps guide you through the ISB admissions process, including prepping you for your interview to ensure your application is foolproof!

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