Top Free Resources for GRE/GMAT Preparation
Preparing for the GRE or GMAT can feel overwhelming—especially with coaching classes costing thousands of rupees. But the good news is that Indian students and parents can access world-class free resources to achieve excellent scores without spending big. Whether you’re aiming for an MBA in the USA, a Master’s in Europe, or scholarships in Canada, this guide will walk you through top free GRE and GMAT preparation tools, step-by-step strategies, and actionable tips to boost your scores.
Why Free GRE/GMAT Prep Resources Matter for Indian Students
With study-abroad expenses like student visas, tuition fees, and living costs, saving money on test prep is a smart move. Using free resources means:
- Lower financial burden for parents and students.
- Access to official practice questions designed by the test makers.
- Flexibility to study anywhere—perfect for busy college students or working professionals.
Quick Tip: Check out our guide on [Scholarships for Indian Students to Study Abroad] to pair your exam prep with funding opportunities.
Step-by-Step GRE/GMAT Preparation Strategy
Before diving into free resources, here’s a proven 4-step prep plan you can follow:
1. Understand the Exam Format
- GRE: Tests Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.
- GMAT: Focuses on Quant, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.
- Both exams are adaptive and timed.
👉 Download the official test pattern PDFs from ETS (GRE) or GMAC (GMAT).
2. Take a Diagnostic Test
- Use free practice tests (links below) to know your current level.
- Identify weak areas—Quant or Verbal—to create a focused study plan.
3. Create a 3–4 Month Study Schedule
- Allocate 2–3 hours daily with extra time on weekends.
- Keep one day per week for full-length practice tests.
4. Revise & Practice
- Spend the last month on mock tests and timed drills.
- Track mistakes and repeat difficult topics.
Best Free Resources for GRE Preparation
1. Official ETS GRE Materials
- Link: https://www.ets.org/gre
- Free PowerPrep tests simulate the real exam.
- Downloadable question pools for Verbal and Quant sections.
Pro Tip: Start with PowerPrep to set your baseline score.
2. Magoosh GRE Free Resources
- Free video lessons and question sets.
- Covers math shortcuts and high-frequency GRE vocabulary.
3. Manhattan Prep Free GRE Practice Test
- Full-length, adaptive GRE mock test with detailed analytics.
- Great for testing your pacing and exam stamina.
4. Khan Academy Math
- Perfect for brushing up on Quant fundamentals.
- Free videos on algebra, geometry, and data analysis.
5. Vocabulary Tools
- Apps like Quizlet and Memrise for GRE word lists.
- “Magoosh GRE Vocabulary Flashcards” is a must-download for Indian students.
Best Free Resources for GMAT Preparation
1. GMAC Official Starter Kit & Practice Exams
- Link: https://www.mba.com
- Includes 90 real GMAT questions and 2 full-length mock tests.
2. Manhattan Prep Free GMAT Practice Test
- High-quality mock exam with detailed solution analysis.
3. Target Test Prep Free GMAT Resources
- Free Quant practice sets and strategy guides.
4. Veritas Prep & e-GMAT Free Materials
- Video lessons on Data Sufficiency and Sentence Correction.
5. YouTube Channels & Podcasts
- Channels like GMAT Club and Veritas Prep share free strategy sessions and problem-solving videos.
Additional Free Study Abroad Resources
Along with test prep, Indian students should also focus on admission and visa readiness. Here are must-visit resources:
- Scholarships & Financial Aid: DAAD (Germany), Fulbright-Nehru, Chevening (UK), Erasmus+ (EU).
- IELTS/TOEFL Prep: British Council and ETS provide free mock tests.
- Visa Guidance: Visit official embassy websites for USA, Canada, and Germany for the latest student visa requirements.
Check out our guide on [Affordable Universities in the USA for Indian Students] to plan your applications wisely.
Tips to Maximize Free GRE/GMAT Resources
- Simulate real exam conditions – Take practice tests in a quiet room, timed strictly.
- Track and analyze mistakes – Maintain an error log to identify patterns.
- Join online forums – Participate in communities like GRE Prep Club or GMAT Club for peer learning.
- Use spaced repetition – Especially for vocabulary and formulas.
- Mix resources smartly – Combine ETS/GMAC official questions with Magoosh or Manhattan strategy lessons.
Example 3-Month Study Plan
| Month | Focus Area | Key Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Month 1 | Concept building | Learn basics in Quant & Verbal, build vocabulary |
| Month 2 | Intensive practice | Solve 40–50 questions daily, take one mock test weekly |
| Month 3 | Test simulation | Take 2–3 full-length tests weekly, revise weak topics |
Quick Links for Indian Students
- [Scholarships for Indian Students to Study Abroad]
- [Affordable Universities in the USA for Indian Students]
- [IELTS Preparation Tips for High Scores]
(Insert internal links to related posts on your blog for better SEO and user engagement.)
FAQ: GRE/GMAT Preparation for Indian Students
Q1. How many months of preparation are enough for GRE/GMAT?
Most students need 3–4 months with consistent daily study.
Q2. Can I prepare for GRE/GMAT without coaching?
Absolutely! With free online resources and discipline, many students score 320+ on GRE or 700+ on GMAT.
Q3. Which is better for MBA abroad—GRE or GMAT?
Both are accepted by top B-schools. GMAT is preferred for MBA, while GRE works for a wider range of graduate programs.
Q4. Are there free scholarships for Indian students after GRE/GMAT?
Yes. Programs like Fulbright, Chevening, and DAAD offer full or partial funding based on scores and academic merit.
Q5. Is IELTS/TOEFL also required if I take GRE/GMAT?
Most universities still require English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL, unless waived for strong English-medium education.
Conclusion & Call-to-Action
Studying abroad can be expensive, but preparing for GRE and GMAT doesn’t have to be. By using these free, high-quality resources and following a smart, step-by-step plan, Indian students can achieve top scores and secure valuable scholarships.