Prepping for the GMAT doesn’t have to burn a hole in your wallet. With the right mix of free tools, helpful videos, and budget-friendly books, you can build a solid prep routine and get exam-ready. This guide is for those learners who are confident about doing what it takes to get into their dream MBA / MIM program while not having to pay for expensive personal coaching.
The GMAT Focus Edition requires focused preparation, and the good news is that numerous resources are available at little to no cost. Here’s how to get started!
Begin with the Official Free Materials
The official GMAT site (mba.com) is still the most reliable place to begin. It offers several resources, such as the GMAT Official starter kit. The Official Starter Kit equips you with everything you need to launch your GMAT journey such as 70+ real GMAT questions across Quantitative, Verbal, and Data Insights sections.
You will also get two full-length mock tests that match the current test format. These are computer-adaptive, just like the real exam, and help you understand timing and difficulty levels. You can analyze your performance with detailed scoring reports and a personalized study plan.
If you are just getting started, this is your foundation. So, test yourself, see where you stand, and plan from there.
Free Online Tools and YouTube Channels
There’s no shortage of quality GMAT help on YouTube. Several independent educators and former test-takers now post section-by-section video breakdowns, time-saving shortcuts for quantitative and verbal sections, and full test-taking walkthroughs. Look out for creators who focus on GMAT Focus Edition tips and post regularly. Many also offer downloadable study schedules and free practice sets linked in video descriptions.
In addition, GMATClub has open forums and study groups often share daily problem sets, vocabulary challenges, and timing drills that you can access freely without signing up for a course. Applicants find GMATClub to be immensely valuable for its vibrant community forum, extensive library of free practice questions and self-designed GMATClub Tests.
What truly sets GMATClub apart is its highly interactive, peer-to-peer ecosystem. Students exchange test strategies, share recent GMAT experiences, and compare prep materials too. On this platform, you will find thousands of threads discussing everything from Data Sufficiency (DS) approaches and Data Insights hacks to test-day strategies and time management tips.
The platform also includes built-in tools, such as an error log, which automatically tracks every timed question you attempt. You can tag your mistakes, sort by topic or difficulty, and generate personalized analytics to see where you are improving and where you need to improve further.
Furthermore, you will also find a dedicated section on the GMAT Focus Edition, where recent test-takers and experts actively post updates, share new question patterns, and offer section-wise guidance in line with the latest information. In essence, GMATClub is your 24/7 study partner, whether you are starting your prep or navigating your final mocks, it keeps you connected, informed, and supported.
Read More: How to Prepare for the GMAT Exam: 5 Steps Success Mantra
Affordable Prep Books That Work
A good book can guide your prep even when you’re offline. Some student favorites (under Rs. 5000) include:
- GMAT Official Guide 2025 – This is from the makers of the exam, featuring real retired questions.
- GMAT Prep Plus – It offers proven strategies, timed drills, and full-length practice sets.
- Princeton Review GMAT Premium Prep 2025 – It contains practice tests, review chapters, and test-taking tips. Furthermore, it is priced affordably and updated each year
You will find these on most online bookstores or in university libraries that stock standardized test materials.
Practice Tests That Won’t Break the Bank
Beyond the two free official mocks, there are online platforms that sell affordable test bundles. These tests are designed to reflect the adaptive nature and scoring pattern of the real exam. Even two or three of these timed mocks can give you a big edge in pacing and confidence.
Kaplan’s GMAT Prep Plus test is a good option for realistic and accurate practice tests. We would recommend avoiding the Manhattan Review’s free practice test – which is not the same as the one offered by Manhattan Prep (Kaplan), and the questions do not reflect the real test.
Read More: GMAT Exam Syllabus 2025 – The Most Crucial Concepts
Claim Discounts on GMAT Booking Fees
So, ready to book up your GMAT prep and book that slot?
LilacBuds could offer you exclusive discounts for GMAT test taking. Right from coaching to test booking, we may be able to guide you on different ways to cut your costs. Applicants benefit from fee reductions, and also gain access to official materials at discounted rates for additional prep.
Reach out to the team to request your discount booking vouchers today!
Final Thought
You don’t need to spend thousands to score well on the GMAT. LilacBuds provided affordable, tailored prep through group coaching and even one-on-one tutoring, complete with structured study plans and expert support. Our AI-powered portal helps you track your progress, highlights weak areas, and offers 1500+ topic-wise practice questions. Led by competent tutors (with 770+ GMAT scores), courses include flexible scheduling, doubt-clearing sessions, and adaptive mock tests. With these effective and budget-friendly tools, LilacBuds can help you give your best shot to ace the test!
Also, don’t forget to grab your GMAT prep discount voucher for additional official materials or coaching from LilacBuds. After all, smart prep starts with smart planning!
