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Too Late for GMAT in August? How to Prep & Apply for MBA 2026 in Time
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A No-Nonsense Guide to Starting GMAT or GRE Prep in August for MBA 2026
TL;DR:
Wondering “Is August too late to start GMAT prep?” The answer is: Not necessarily. If you’re targeting Round 2 MBA deadlines for the 2026 intake, there’s still time to prepare. But the window is tight. This blog breaks down a realistic GMAT timeline, helps you choose between GMAT vs GRE, and outlines a two-phase study and application plan tailored for those starting GMAT in August.
🎥 Prefer watching instead of reading?
You can watch the full video version of this guide for starting GMAT in August here:
1. The Big Question: Is It Too Late to Start GMAT Prep in August?
You’re asking: “Can I start preparing for the GMAT in August and still apply for an MBA in 2026?” Or maybe: “How late is too late to start GMAT prep?”
Short answer: August isn’t too late—but it’s your last viable chance to prep for Round 2.
You’re not alone. Thousands of applicants start GMAT or GRE prep in August every year. The key is to avoid wasting time and maximize structure.
Let’s help you build that structure.
2. MBA 2026 Timeline Reality Check
If you’re aiming for the MBA Class of 2026, here’s what your application timeline looks like:
- US B-Schools (Round 2): Jan 5–10, 2026
- Europe (INSEAD, LBS, HEC): Windows in Jan/Feb
- Asia (NUS, NTU, HKUST): Feb to March
- India (ISB R2, IIM PGPX): Nov/Dec 2025
So if you’re starting in August 2025, you’ll need to:
- Prep for GMAT/GRE
- Take the test by end of November
- Finalize your applications by early January
It’s a race. But not a lost one.
3. Five Questions to Ask Before You Start GMAT in August
This is your GMAT prep readiness checklist:
1. Can you study 2 hours per day, consistently?
GMAT prep takes 300–400 hours. That’s about 2 hours on weekdays, 4+ hours on weekends.
2. Are weekends free for 4–8 hour study blocks?
If not, you’ll need to find that time elsewhere. Weekend time is non-negotiable.
3. Have you recently taken CAT/XAT or any aptitude test?
If yes, you have an edge. If no, you can still succeed—but expect a learning curve.
4. What MBA geography are you targeting?
- US & Europe: Round 2 is doable
- Asia: March deadlines = buffer
- India: IIM deadlines (Nov) = very tight
5. What GMAT/GRE score do you need?
- Create a shortlist of 10–12 MBA programs
- Find their median GMAT/GRE scores
- Add +20 (GMAT) or +3 (GRE) to set your target score
Need help tracking this? We suggest using a score comparison sheet to visualize gaps.
Sign up for a demo class at https://wzko.in/demo, and begin your GMAT Preparation now!
4. Not Sure? Here’s When to Postpone to MBA 2027
If you’re:
- Switching jobs
- Planning a wedding
- Caregiving for family
- Heading into peak season at work
…then maybe this isn’t your year.
False starts lead to burnout and self-doubt.
Instead, aim for early prep in 2026 and target MBA Class of 2027. You’ll be stronger, less stressed, and far more competitive.
5. GMAT Prep Timeline: Phase 1 (Aug 15 to Nov 30)
GMAT or GRE? Take a Diagnostic First
Don’t guess. Take official free tests:
GMAT vs GRE: Which Is Easier?
- Most top B-schools accept both
- GRE is accepted by 90%+ MBA programs
- Choose the test that aligns with your strengths
Explore Wizako’s online courses:
Your 100-Day Study Plan
Aug 15 – Oct 15:
- Join a structured program: Wizako Live Classes
- Master concepts & complete basic drills
Oct 15 – Nov 10:
- Take sectional & topic-wise practice tests
Nov 10 – Nov 25:
- Take 6 full-length mock tests
- Ensure you score at/above your target in at least 2–3 mocks
- Schedule official test by Nov 30
6. MBA Application Timeline: Phase 2 (Dec to Jan)
Key Tasks
- Resume writing
- Application essays
- Finalizing recommenders
- Shortlisting 6–8 schools
Attend Events
- MBA Webinars (school-specific)
- MBA Tours (e.g., QS, GMAC)
These help with school fit evaluation and real-time Q&A with admissions teams.
Consider an MBA Admissions Consultant
Don’t sign up until you hit your GMAT/GRE target score. Then:
- Find a consultant you vibe with
- Get help packaging your story and polishing your essays
7. GMAT in August? Why Coaching > DIY
Here’s what not to do:
- Watch random YouTube videos
- Rely only on forums
- Try to self-structure your prep
Here’s what works:
You’ll be learning from:
- Swetha (GMAT 780, USC 100% scholarship)
- Vishwa (Quant ninja)
- Baskar (Data Insights & MBA coach)
💡 Try a demo class and see if the format works for you.
8. Common Questions in August
Can I prepare for GMAT in 3 months?
Yes. But only with discipline and the right structure.
Is GRE easier than GMAT?
Depends on your strengths. Try both diagnostics before deciding.
How late is too late for GMAT?
August is your last reasonable window for MBA 2026 intake.
Is it okay to apply with GRE instead of GMAT?
Yes. Many top schools accept GRE scores—even Stanford, HBS, Wharton.
What if I can’t hit my target score by November?
Retake in December. Some deadlines are still within reach.
Final Words: Should You Start GMAT in August?
Starting GMAT prep in August isn’t ideal.
But with:
- A realistic study plan
- A clear application timeline
- The right support system
…you can still crack it and apply in Round 2 for MBA 2026.
Evaluate your bandwidth. Be honest.
Then either go all in—or defer strategically.
And if you decide to begin now, Wizako’s got your back.
