Thinking about an MBA but dreading the GMAT or GRE? You are not alone! The first hurdle in your MBA journey is getting that test score out of the way. With Round 1 deadlines less than 4 months away, this is the perfect time to start building your test prep strategy
To support applicants through this crucial first step, I’m excited to launch my MBA Application Series. This blog (and accompanying video) brings you real-world insights from students who worked with myEssayReview (MER) and earned admits—and scholarships—from top business schools.
In Part 1, we focus on test preparation strategies. You’ll hear directly from three students who successfully tackled their test prep journeys:
✅ Katherine, a second-year student at UCLA Anderson, shares her GRE prep experience and tips.
✅ Shekhar, a 2023 graduate of Chicago Booth, reflects on GMAT Classic prep. Although GMAT Classic has been replaced by GMAT Focus, many of his strategies are still highly relevant.
✅ Tyler, a first-year student at USC Marshall, discusses his experience with the GMAT Focus Edition.
Below, you’ll find highlights from Katherine, Shekhar, and Tyler. Each excerpt includes a few lines of direct advice followed by key takeaways.
🎥 Watch the Video
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🎓 Tyler Sweeney | GMAT Focus 675 (Equivalent to 720) | USC & UCLA Admit with Scholarships
Tyler's Advice; “With the GMAT Focus Edition, each section gives you about 2 minutes per question, so speed was critical. I started prep in early summer and spaced it over six months. I practiced Data Insights heavily and learned that staying calm and interpreting the logic clearly was key.”
Key Takeaways:
- Start early and be consistent
- Prioritize speed and accuracy
- Stay calm and confident, especially with Data Insights
🔗 Watch Tyler's full interview
📖 Read Tyler’s full story
🔗 Connect with Tyler on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tyler-sweeney
🎓 Katherine Shang | GRE Prep | UCLA Anderson, Kellogg, UC Davis Admits with Scholarships
Katherine's Advice: “GRE prep was about balancing consistency and managing pressure. I treated it like a project, breaking it into small, manageable steps. That helped me stay calm and focused on weak areas.”
Key Takeaways:
- Treat prep like a structured project
- Manage stress by creating small goals
- Stay focused on continuous improvement
🔗 Watch Katherine’s full interview
📖 Read Katherine’s full story
🔗 Connect with Katherine on LinkedIn:– linkedin.com/in/katherine-shang
🎓 Shekhar Iyer | 780 GMAT | Booth Admit with $40K Scholarship
Shekhar's Advice “I prepared for my GMAT for five months and didn’t miss a single day—even if it was just 30 minutes. Sentence correction was more predictable for me, so I focused on mastering it. The test is very unpredictable, so be consistent, take mock tests, and stay calm.”
Key Takeaways:
- Be consistent in your daily prep
- Focus on your strengths and weaknesses
- Use trusted resources like GMAT Club and “Thursdays with Ron”
🔗 Watch Shekhar's full interview
📖 Read Shekhar’s full story
🔗 Connect with Shekhar on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ishekhariyer
📌 Summary: Top 3 Test Prep Tips from MER Students
- Start early and stay consistent
- Tailor your prep to your strengths and weaknesses
- Stay calm and trust your reasoning under pressure
If you found these tips helpful, don’t miss what’s coming next! In Part 2 of the MBA Application Series, we’ll dive into MBA application strategy—how to plan, prepare, and position yourself for success.
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