Preparing for the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) or the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) can feel like a big task. However, you don’t have to spend a lot of money on expensive study programs to succeed. With the right free resources, you can effectively prepare for these exams. In this article, we will explore various free resources that can help you get ready for both the GRE and GMAT, allowing you to study effectively without breaking the bank.
Overview of the GRE and GMAT
Before we look into the free resources, it’s important to understand the basics of both the GRE and GMAT.
What is the GRE?
The GRE is a standardized test that many graduate schools use to assess a student’s readiness for advanced study. It consists of three main sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.
- Verbal Reasoning measures skills like reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and vocabulary.
- Quantitative Reasoning tests your knowledge of basic math, including arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
- Analytical Writing requires you to write essays that demonstrate your ability to express complex ideas clearly and logically.
What is the GMAT?
The GMAT is mostly used by business schools for MBA and other graduate management programs. It has four main sections: Analytical Writing, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative, and Verbal reasoning.
- Analytical Writing involves writing an essay to evaluate your reasoning and communication skills.
- Integrated Reasoning measures how well you can interpret and analyze data in different formats.
- Quantitative tests your knowledge of math concepts and problem-solving.
- Verbal evaluates your ability to understand and analyze written content, and it includes grammar and sentence correction questions.
Now that we have a basic understanding of the two exams, let’s explore some great free resources that can help you prepare for both the GRE and GMAT.
Free GRE Preparation Resources
1. Official GRE Website
The official GRE website provides many useful resources for students preparing for the exam. These resources help you become familiar with the test format and improve your test-taking skills.
GRE Preparation Materials
- GRE PowerPrep: This free software offers two full-length practice tests that are similar to the real GRE exam. It’s a great way to practice under test-like conditions.
- Sample Questions: The official site provides free practice questions from each section of the exam so you can get a feel for the types of questions you will face.
Online GRE Prep Materials
- GRE Math Review: The GRE website offers a downloadable review that covers the math concepts you need to know, including arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
- GRE Verbal Practice: The site also has free practice questions and materials that focus on the verbal reasoning section, which includes reading comprehension and vocabulary.
2. Khan Academy
Khan Academy is a free learning platform that offers a wide range of lessons, including subjects tested on the GRE. Although Khan Academy doesn’t offer GRE-specific lessons, its content on key areas is very helpful.
GRE-Related Resources on Khan Academy
- Math Lessons: Khan Academy covers topics like basic arithmetic, algebra, and geometry, all of which are tested on the GRE.
- Verbal Reasoning: You can use Khan Academy’s vocabulary-building exercises and reading comprehension practice to prepare for the GRE verbal section.
- Writing Tips: While Khan Academy doesn’t have specific GRE writing lessons, it does provide useful lessons on general writing skills that will help you with the essay section.
3. Magoosh Free Resources
Magoosh is known for its affordable GRE prep courses, but it also offers several free resources that can help you get started.
Free Magoosh GRE Resources
- GRE Blog: Magoosh’s blog is a great place to find tips, study schedules, and strategies for preparing for the GRE.
- YouTube Channel: Magoosh’s YouTube channel has free video lessons on GRE strategies, key concepts, and tips for both the verbal and quantitative sections.
4. Test Prep Review
Test Prep Review is another website that offers free practice questions and study materials for the GRE. It includes questions for both verbal and quantitative sections, with explanations of the answers to help you understand the solutions.
5. Reddit’s GRE Community
Reddit’s GRE community is a helpful forum where students can share resources, advice, and experiences. It’s a great place to find free study materials and ask questions.
GRE Subreddits
- r/GRE: This subreddit is full of helpful discussions, including links to free practice tests, study plans, and study tips shared by other GRE test-takers.
Free GMAT Preparation Resources
1. Official GMAT Website
The official GMAT website offers several helpful resources for students preparing for the exam. These resources include practice tests, sample questions, and diagnostic tools.
GMAT Free Resources on Official Site
- GMATPrep Software: This free software gives you two full-length practice tests that are very similar to the actual GMAT exam. It’s a great way to track your progress and identify areas where you need to improve.
- Sample Questions: The GMAT website provides sample questions for all sections of the exam, helping you understand the format and types of questions you’ll encounter.
2. Khan Academy
Like with the GRE, Khan Academy offers many free resources that can be helpful for GMAT preparation. It doesn’t have GMAT-specific content, but it covers subjects tested on the GMAT, such as math and verbal reasoning.
GMAT-Related Resources on Khan Academy
- Math Lessons: Khan Academy provides lessons on arithmetic, algebra, and geometry, which are tested in the GMAT quantitative section.
- Verbal and Critical Reasoning: The lessons on reading comprehension, grammar, and sentence structure can be very helpful for the GMAT verbal section.
- Integrated Reasoning: While Khan Academy doesn’t offer content specifically on Integrated Reasoning, its problem-solving lessons can help improve your ability to analyze data.
3. Beat The GMAT
Beat The GMAT is a popular online community for GMAT test-takers. It provides free study resources, including study plans, practice questions, and advice from students who have successfully taken the GMAT.
Free Beat The GMAT Resources
- Study Plans: Beat The GMAT offers free study plans to help you prepare efficiently and effectively. These plans break down what to study each week and how to stay on track.
- Practice Questions: You’ll find thousands of free practice questions for all GMAT sections, including verbal, quantitative, and integrated reasoning.
- GMAT Forums: The forums on Beat The GMAT are a great place to ask questions, exchange tips, and find additional free study materials.
4. Magoosh Free GMAT Resources
Magoosh also offers several free resources for GMAT preparation, including blog posts and videos.
Free GMAT Resources from Magoosh
- GMAT Blog: Magoosh’s blog offers expert tips, study guides, and strategies for all parts of the GMAT exam.
- YouTube Channel: The Magoosh GMAT YouTube channel features free video lessons that explain key concepts and test-taking strategies.
5. GMAT Club
GMAT Club is a popular website where GMAT test-takers can access free study materials and resources. It offers practice questions, study guides, and a community forum.
GMAT Club Free Resources
- Practice Questions: GMAT Club provides thousands of free practice questions, along with detailed explanations for each answer.
- Study Guides: The website also offers free study guides that have been created by successful test-takers.
Tips for Using Free Resources Effectively
While free resources are very helpful, it’s important to use them wisely to make the most of your study time.
1. Create a Study Plan
Start by making a study plan that breaks down the material you need to cover. Set aside specific times each day to study, and focus on one section at a time.
2. Focus on Weak Areas
Take a diagnostic test (available on the official GRE and GMAT websites) to identify which areas you need to improve. Spend extra time on these topics to strengthen your knowledge and skills.
3. Practice Regularly
Practice makes perfect. Dedicate time each day to work through practice questions and review difficult concepts.
4. Take Full-Length Practice Tests
Both the GRE and GMAT are long exams, so it’s important to build stamina by taking full-length practice tests. These will help you manage your time effectively and get used to the exam format.
5. Join Online Communities
Participate in online forums and communities like Reddit, Beat The GMAT, and GRE forums. These communities offer support, resources, and valuable tips from other students.
Conclusion
Preparing for the GRE and GMAT doesn’t have to be expensive. Many free resources are available online that can help you study and perform well on the exam. By using the resources listed above and sticking to a consistent study routine, you can improve your skills and boost your chances of getting the scores you need for graduate school.
Best of luck with your preparation!