Prompt 28: MBA test prep course or tutor? Microsoft Copilot has you covered

I admittedly agonized over test prep for my MBA application. And I’m not the only one. Luckily, you can use Microsoft Copilot to recommend the best test prep strategy. Read below to learn more. Haven’t decided which test to take? Head over to my previous newsletter on that topic here: Should you take the GRE or GMAT? Create a pros and cons list to determine which test is best for you!

Prompt 28 Format

Part 1:?

What are the top [insert number] most [insert adjective describing what type of information you are hoping to find] [insert different website formats] for MBA admissions? Please explain your reasoning.

Part 2:

Using the following information sources [insert Prompt 28 Part 1 response], what are the key considerations for choosing between a [test type] test preparatory course and a [test type] tutor, based on [insert criteria]?

Part 3:

Which test prep course providers offer the top [insert number] GMAT prep courses and top [insert number] GRE prep courses for MBA applicants in 2025? Please only reference information retrieved from the following sources: [Insert Prompt 28 Part 1 response]

Prompt 28 Example

Part 1:?

Part 1:?

My Question: What are the top 15 most objective, informative, and unbiased news sources, news outlets, blogs, educational websites, and forums for MBA admissions? Please explain your reasoning.

Microsoft Copilot Response: Sure! Here are 15 highly regarded sources for objective, informative, and unbiased information on MBA admissions:

News Sources & Outlets

• Poets&Quants : Known for its comprehensive coverage of MBA programs, rankings, and admissions advice. It provides in-depth articles and interviews with admissions directors.
• Financial Times : Offers detailed analysis and rankings of global MBA programs, along with articles on trends in business education.
• The Economist : Provides insights into MBA programs, including rankings and articles on the value of an MBA.
• Bloomberg News : Known for its MBA rankings and articles on business schools and admissions trends.
• U.S. News & World Report : Offers annual rankings of MBA programs and articles on admissions strategies and trends.

Blogs

• MBA Crystal Ball : A blog that offers advice on MBA admissions, including tips on essays, interviews, and school selection.
• Accepted : Provides admissions consulting advice, including blog posts on application strategies and school-specific tips.
• Stacy Blackman Consulting : Offers a blog with insights on MBA admissions, including tips on essays, interviews, and school selection.
• The GMAT Club: A community-driven blog with advice on GMAT preparation and MBA admissions.

Educational Websites

• Graduate Management Admission Council? (GMAC?) : The official site for the GMAT exam, offering resources on MBA admissions and program selection.
• MBA.com: Managed by GMAC, it provides information on MBA programs, the GMAT exam, and admissions advice.
• Clear Admit : Offers resources on MBA admissions, including school guides, interview reports, and application tips.

Forums

• The GMAT Club: A popular forum where applicants share advice on GMAT preparation and MBA admissions.
• Beat The GMAT: Another active forum with discussions on GMAT prep and MBA admissions strategies.
• Reddit, Inc. (r/MBA): A community where users discuss MBA programs, admissions strategies, and share personal experiences.

Reasoning

These sources are selected based on their reputation for providing accurate, comprehensive, and unbiased information. They are widely recognized in the MBA admissions community and offer a mix of news, analysis, personal advice, and community support. This combination ensures that you get a well-rounded perspective on the MBA admissions process.

Part 2:

My Question: Using the following information sources, what are the key considerations for choosing between a GMAT test preparatory course and a GMAT tutor, based on research and expert recommendations?

Microsoft Copilot Response: When deciding between a GMAT test preparatory course and a GMAT tutor, there are several key considerations based on research and expert recommendations from the sources you mentioned:

Personalized Attention vs. Structured Curriculum

• GMAT Tutor: Offers personalized attention and customized study plans tailored to your strengths and weaknesses. This can be particularly beneficial if you have specific areas that need improvement or if you prefer one-on-one interaction.?
• GMAT Prep Course: Provides a structured curriculum with a set schedule and materials. This can be advantageous if you thrive in a classroom setting and benefit from a comprehensive, step-by-step approach.?

Flexibility vs. Consistency

• GMAT Tutor: Typically offers more flexibility in scheduling sessions, which can be adjusted based on your availability and progress.?
• GMAT Prep Course: Offers consistency in terms of schedule and content delivery. This can help maintain a steady pace and ensure all topics are covered systematically.?

Cost Considerations

• GMAT Tutor: Generally more expensive due to the personalized nature of the service. However, the investment can be worthwhile if it leads to significant score improvements.?
• GMAT Prep Course: Often more affordable than one-on-one tutoring. Group classes can spread the cost among multiple students, making it a cost-effective option.?

Learning Style

• GMAT Tutor: Ideal for students who prefer interactive, personalized learning and need specific guidance on certain topics.?
• GMAT Prep Course: Suitable for students who benefit from a structured environment and can learn effectively in a group setting.?

Accountability and Motivation

• GMAT Tutor: Provides direct accountability as the tutor can monitor your progress closely and keep you motivated.?
• GMAT Prep Course: Offers peer support and competition, which can be motivating for some students.?

Quality and Expertise

• GMAT Tutor: The quality can vary significantly. It's important to research and choose a tutor with proven expertise and a track record of success.?
• GMAT Prep Course: Established prep courses often have standardized materials and experienced instructors, ensuring a certain level of quality and consistency.?

Conclusion

Choosing between a GMAT test preparatory course and a GMAT tutor depends on your individual needs, learning style, budget, and schedule. If you need personalized attention and have specific areas to improve, a tutor might be the best choice. If you prefer a structured approach and a more affordable option, a prep course could be more suitable.

Part 3:

My Question: Which test prep course providers offer the top five GMAT prep courses and top five GRE prep courses for MBA applicants in 2025? Please only reference information retrieved from the following sources: [Insert Prompt 28 Part 1 response]

Microsoft Copilot Response:?

Top 5 GMAT Prep Courses for MBA 2024 Applicants

Magoosh

• Why Ranked: Magoosh is highly praised for its affordability and comprehensive resources, including over 1,300 practice questions and 340 video lessons. It offers a 70-point score improvement guarantee.?

The Princeton Review

• Why Ranked: Known for its extensive practice materials and adaptive drills, Princeton Review offers a 700+ score guarantee for those starting with a score of 620 or higher.?

Manhattan Prep, Powered by Kaplan

• Why Ranked: Manhattan Prep is recognized for its engaging video lessons and comprehensive study materials, including six full-length practice tests

Target Test Prep

• Why Ranked: Initially focused on Quant, Target Test Prep now includes Verbal components. It is known for its in-depth performance analytics and extensive practice questions

PrepScholar GMAT

• Why Ranked: Offers a personalized study plan based on a diagnostic test. It includes a 60+ score improvement guarantee and a user-friendly dashboard to track progress.?

Top 5 GRE Prep Courses for MBA 2024 Applicants

Manhattan Prep, Powered by Kaplan

• Why Ranked: Manhattan Prep is highly regarded for its interactive video lessons and extensive practice problems. It offers a specialized course for MBA candidates focusing on advanced math

The Princeton Review

• Why Ranked: Known for its comprehensive live online courses and adaptive practice questions. It guarantees a 162+ score on both Quant and Verbal sections.?

Kaplan

• Why Ranked: Offers a variety of GRE prep options, including in-person and live online classes. Kaplan is praised for its realistic practice questions and extensive online content.?

Magoosh

• Why Ranked: Known for its budget-friendly options and extensive online resources, including over 1,600 practice questions and 100+ video lessons.?

Achievable

Why Ranked: Offers personalized study plans and a large number of practice questions. Achievable is noted for its effective practice work and user-friendly interface.