How to select the best coaching center for GMAT

GMAT is one of the toughest examinations for MBA aspirants across the world. This exam tests the aptitude of management graduates in areas pertaining to logic, mathematical and language skills. The extensive competition across the globe makes getting high percentile in the exam tougher than other exams. The best thing about GMAT is that you can still take a repeat exam after 31 days of appearing for the first time, if you are not happy with the results.

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The preparation stage is very important and decisive for success in GMAT. A common dilemma every MBA aspirant faces is that whether to go for a formal coaching or rely on self-studies. Most don’t go for coaching classes as they are busy with their jobs and don’t have enough time. But if someone is looking to attend coaching classes for GMAT, it becomes important to choose the best institute. The option of coaching classes is best suited for candidates who can spare enough time, attention and money. There is no best coaching institute, as each one of them cater to different needs of students. You will have to find the best institute for yourself by going for trial classes and experimenting with different teaching methods.

Here are a few tips to help you shortlist and select a well-suited coaching centre to prepare for GMAT.

Track record – Check year-wise result of the students who took coaching classes from the institute before joining. Usually all the institutes keep records of top performers and you can ask them to show their track record. You should know how old a coaching center is and how skilled is it in the art of turning average students to better performing ones.
You should be careful while looking at the track records of institutes as many institutes show combined results of franchisees and not just a center.
Time and distance – The travelling time to the coaching center should be minimal as you don’t want to waste 2 to 3 hours every day in travelling. So it is suggested that you pick a center which is nearby.
Variety of Topics – To maintain consistency of study, the classes must be completed on time and the topics need to be switched in between. Difficult and lengthy topics must be made simple through mnemonic in able to study in a simple and summarized manner. Weak areas need to be revised regularly to gradually transform them into areas of strength.

Test Series – Coaching institutes for GMAT abroad usually have their own mock test series that help students identify their strength and weaknesses, like Princeton Review or Newton. Some test series are better at helping a student analyses their weak areas. It is also advisable to check the faculties and facilities of the coaching institute you plan to join.
Size of your batch – Always go for coaching institute that hold small batches. Many coaching institutes have huge batches, which will result in lack of individual attention given by the teacher. If there are many students in class you will not get personal attention, which is the point behind joining a coaching institute.
Fee structure and refund system – Fees at coaching centers vary across cities and branches. If you are not satisfied with the course and want to leave it mid-way, you should be able to get some amount of the fee refunded. In order to lure students, these institutes give special discounts. But you need to always remain concerned about your requirements. Ask about payment options, if you are required to pay the entire amount in the beginning or you can pay through installments.

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