Ideal Test Scheduling

[mbfarrell2]

I was part of the 9 week in person class this spring(Finished last week of May). I was unable to focus much on the book work outside of class or since class ended due to a hectic work schedule at the time. I now have the opportunity to spend 2/3 hours per day studying. How long should I wait to take the test? I would like to schedule the time in advance so that I can set a definite schedule but don't know how many hours(estimated) that you would recommend studying before taking the test.
Any information is appreciated.
Thanks.

[StaceyKoprince]

What is your current score and what is your goal score? (How recently have you taken a practice test? If longer ago than 2-3 weeks, take another one this week-end, come back and tell me the score (including quant and verbal breakdown) and tell me your goal score.

Also, take an MGMAT test, not GMATPrep. The test reports will be your blueprint for what to do based upon your strengths and weaknesses!

[mbfarrell2]

Thank you for your response. My goal is to score a 700. I have taken the actual GMAT once, in Spring 2008, and scored a 630(40Q, 36V). Since starting the class in March I have taken 3 full length practice. In March I scored a 560(35Q, 32V), in May I scored a 530(33Q, 31V) and today I scored a 580(33Q, 36V). I know there is a common factor that my quantitative score is a little lower and I am working on that part of my skill set. I am very curious as to your opinion on how many more weeks of studying would be appropriate for me given my test scores.

Thank you,
Mike

[StaceyKoprince]

If you're trying to get from the high 500s to a 700, you'll likely need to plan a full course of action - for most people, that means 3-4 months. You still have access to your online materials, including tapes of the classes, so I'd recommend that you "re-take" the class, essentially - pick a day of the week that is going to be your "class" day and watch the tapes in order, once a week. In the week between each class, follow the syllabus and do the homework for that class.

That will take 9 weeks, and then you will likely want to take 3-5 weeks for review after (I'm basing that estimate on what most of my students tell me they do). So pick a date maybe 13-15 weeks out (which you can change as you get closer, if you feel you need a little more time).

FYI - you may not be able to actually schedule the test yet. I think most of the time you can only schedule around 8 to 12 weeks in advance (depending upon location).