When is the Best Time to Study for GMAT?

If you’re planning to apply for an MBA or other business-related graduate programs, the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a crucial step in the admissions process. But one question almost every student asks is: “when is the best time to study for gmat?”

Before diving into your timeline, make sure you’re equipped with the right GMAT Preparation Tips to help you stay consistent, focused, and test-ready from the very beginning.

Let’s walk through how to identify the ideal time to begin your GMAT prep—and what factors you should consider to stay on track.

How Long Does GMAT Preparation Usually Take?

Most students need 3 to 6 months to prepare effectively for the GMAT, depending on:

• Your current skill level in quantitative and verbal sections
• The target GMAT score
• Time available for daily study
• Whether you’re working or studying full-time

When Should You Start Studying?

The best time to start studying is backward planning from your application deadlines.

➤ Step 1: Identify Application Deadlines

Most top business schools have deadlines in September–January for the following year’s intake. For example, to join a Fall 2026 MBA program, Round 1 deadlines typically fall around September 2025.

➤ Step 2: Plan Your GMAT Test Date

Take the GMAT at least 3–6 months before your first application deadline. This gives you time for:

• Score reporting (up to 20 days)
• A retake, if needed
• Focusing on SOPs, LORs, and essays without GMAT pressure

➤ Step 3: Begin GMAT Prep

Count back 3–6 months from your test date to find your optimal study start time.

Example Timeline:

• Application deadline: January 2026
• Ideal GMAT test date: September 2025
• Start prep by: April–June 2025

Best Times of the Year to Start GMAT Prep

January–March

Great for early applicants aiming for Round 1 deadlines. You’ll beat the crowd and have flexibility to retake the exam.

May–July

Ideal for Round 2 or later rounds. Summer months offer more study time, especially for students on break.

September–October

Good only if you’re aiming for Round 2 deadlines and can dedicate intense hours to studying.

Who Should Start Early?

• Working professionals juggling full-time jobs
• Students weak in math or English fundamentals
• Those targeting 700+ GMAT scores
• Applicants considering multiple business schools across countries

Final Tips to Choose Your GMAT Study Start Date

• Always give yourself buffer time for unexpected delays
• Take a diagnostic test to understand your baseline
• Consider enrolling in a prep course or creating a personalized study plan
• Be consistent and track weekly progress

Wrapping Up

So, when is the best time to study for GMAT? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your target schools, deadlines, current skill level, and available time. Ideally, give yourself at least 3–6 months before your test date—and start planning well in advance of your application deadlines.

Starting early doesn’t just give you more time—it gives you more confidence and control.