How to Crack MBA Entrance Exams: A Step-by-Step Study Plan
So, you’ve decided to pursue an MBA – congratulations! You’re now on the path to one of the most exciting, competitive, and rewarding journeys of your career. But let’s be real – before you step into those management classrooms and leadership seminars, there’s one crucial challenge to tackle: cracking the MBA entrance exam.
If you’ve found yourself googling “how to crack MBA entrance exam” or “how to crack MBA exam in first attempt,” you’re not alone. With lakhs of aspirants eyeing limited seats in top B-schools, the competition is fierce. But don’t worry – this blog will walk you through a smart, structured, and stress-free way to achieve your MBA dreams.
Here’s your definitive, step-by-step study plan on how to crack MBA entrance exams like a pro.
Also Read: Top 10 Skills Every Postgraduate Student Needs in 2025
Step 1: Understand What You’re Getting Into
Before you open that first mock test, you need to know what you’re preparing for. Most top MBA entrance exams in India – like CAT, XAT, NMAT, SNAP, MAT, CMAT, and GMAT – test you on similar core areas:
- Quantitative Aptitude
- Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension
- General Awareness (for some exams)
- Essay Writing or WAT/GD-PI rounds (Post shortlisting)
If you want to know how to crack MBA entrance exam efficiently, begin with this golden rule: Know your exam first.
Create a comparison chart of your target exams with:
- Sections & format
- Duration
- Marking scheme
- Past year cut-offs
This clarity will help you customize your strategy instead of following a one-size-fits-all approach.
Step 2: Build a Realistic and Effective Study Timeline
One of the most underrated steps in how to crack MBA exam preparation is planning. A good study plan can be the difference between stress and success.
Here’s how to do it:
- Break your preparation into 3 phases:
- Concept Building (2 – 3 months)
- Practice & Application (2 months)
- Mocks & Revision (last 1 – 2 months)
- Set weekly and monthly goals.
- Start with 4–5 hours daily and scale up gradually.
- Incorporate mock test days, revision hours, and rest days – balance is key.
Stick this plan on your wall, digital planner, or fridge – anywhere you’ll see it every day.
Step 3: Master the Basics
When you’re learning how to crack MBA entrance exam, the first phase is all about building strong fundamentals.
For Quant:
- Revise Class 10–12 maths – percentages, ratios, algebra, geometry, number systems.
- Use standard books like Arun Sharma, Sarvesh Verma, or any MBA Coaching institute study material.
For Verbal Ability:
- Start reading newspapers like The Hindu / The Economic Times and magazines like The Economist.
- Practice vocabulary using apps like Magoosh, Word Power Made Easy, or Quizlet.
- Work on grammar basics – error spotting and sentence correction are common.
For Logical Reasoning and DI:
- Practice puzzles, blood relations, arrangements, tables, graphs, and charts.
- Work on speed and accuracy together – DI essentially demands both.
If you really want to learn how to crack MBA exam, don’t skip this phase. Every topper has mastered the basics before they became speedsters.
Step 4: Analyze and Practice Smartly
Once you’re comfortable with the syllabus, shift your focus from learning to application.
This is the phase where your study becomes active. Focus on:
- Solving timed section-wise tests.
- Practicing problem-solving in exam conditions.
- Identifying patterns in your mistakes – is it accuracy, time pressure, or a particular topic?
Use tools like:
- Online test series (Career Launcher, TIME, IMS, Cracku, etc.)
- Daily practice quizzes
- Previous year papers and sample papers
This stage is a game-changer. If you’re wondering how to crack MBA entrance exam with high percentile, this is where you sharpen your weapons.
Step 5: Take Mock Tests – A Lot of Them
There’s a reason all toppers swear by mocks.
Taking full-length mock tests simulates real exam pressure, builds stamina, and shows you exactly where you stand.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Take 1-2 mocks a week initially, and 3-4 mocks a week closer to the exam.
- Analyze every mock test thoroughly – section-wise, question-wise, and minute-by-minute.
- Build a strategy – which section to start with, how much time to spend per section, what to skip, etc.
Mock tests help you transform your preparation into performance – and that’s how you crack MBA entrance exams like CAT and XAT.
Step 6: Manage Stress and Stay Consistent
Let’s not sugarcoat it – MBA prep can get overwhelming. But success doesn’t come from just hard work – it comes from consistency and mental clarity.
Here’s how to stay mentally fit:
- Take short breaks – walk, stretch, meditate, listen to music.
- Avoid overloading on multiple resources.
- Keep your environment clutter-free and focused.
- Don’t compare your progress to others – your only competition is you from yesterday.
If you truly want to understand how to crack MBA exam and not just study for it, learn how to stay calm under pressure. This is a life skill that’ll help you not just in the exam, but in your future career too.
Bonus Step: Prepare for the Final Hurdles – WAT, GD & PI
Cracking the exam is just the beginning.
Top B-schools like IIMs, XLRI, etc. also evaluate you through WAT (Written Ability Test), Group Discussions and Personal Interviews.
Start early by:
- Writing SOPs and essays
- Practicing mock interviews
- Reading business news and forming opinions
- Building a narrative around your academics, career goals, and personality
Remember, knowing how to crack MBA entrance exam means preparing beyond just multiple-choice questions.
Final Words: You’ve Got This!
Cracking an MBA entrance exam is not just about aptitude – it’s about attitude, discipline, and strategy. By following this study plan, staying true to your routine, and believing in yourself, you’ll not only learn how to crack MBA entrance exam, but you’ll own that journey with confidence.
MBA isn’t just a degree – it’s a transformation. And this is your first big step toward that change.
So go ahead. Make your plan. Mark your calendar. Put in the work. Because the next success story… might just be yours.
