If you are pursuing graduation (UG) and want to prepare for MBA simultaneously, then this path will definitely be a bit challenging, but not impossible. With the right time management, constant practice and smart strategies, you can score well in MBA entrance exams like CAT, XAT, GMAT or MAT – that too without harming your degree studies.
In this article, we will know how you can prepare for MBA entrance exam while being a UG student, that too in easy Hindi language and with real life examples.
1. Making a time table is the most important
When you are in college, time is spent in classes, assignments and exams. In such a situation, you will have to take out separate time to prepare for MBA exam.
How to make an effective schedule:
- 4-5 days a week, take out just 1-2 hours a day for MBA.
- On weekends, keep slightly longer sessions like 3-4 hours.
- It is best to study early in the morning as the mind is fresh.
- Write down the day-wise topics in a calendar or study planner and follow it.
Example: If you study Quantitative Aptitude on Monday at 7-8 am, Logical Reasoning on Tuesday, and Verbal Ability on Wednesday — then you will be able to cover all three main sections in a week.
2. Understand the format of the MBA exam
Every MBA entrance exam has its own pattern. Such as:
- CAT: Quant, Verbal Ability, Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation
- GMAT: Analytical Writing, Integrated Reasoning, Quantitative, Verbal
- XAT: Decision Making, GK, and Essay
What is important to understand:
- How many questions are there in each section and how much time is given.
- Is there negative marking or not.
- Understand the pattern well from the old year papers.
Tip: Initially test yourself by solving the last 3-5 years of CAT or GMAT papers.
3. Use the right study material and online courses
There are many online and offline resources available nowadays for MBA preparation. But you have to choose smartly.
From which sources to study:
- Books: Arun Sharma (Quant & LRDI), Norman Lewis (Word Power), Nishit Sinha
- Online Platforms: Unacademy, BYJU’S, Cracku, Career Launcher
- YouTube Channels: Rodha, CATKing, Takshzila
Along with all this, it is very important to solve mock tests and daily practice sets.
4. Practice Regularly
The most important thing about MBA exam is to give accurate answers quickly under time pressure. For this, you need practice.
Ways to practice:
- Give at least 1 mock test every week.
- Practice by setting a timer so that you can learn time management.
- Read a little bit of the section in which you are weak every day.
Example: If your Verbal is weak, then practice RC (Reading Comprehension) for 30 minutes every day. Gradually your score will increase.
5. Never forget to take guidance
It is difficult to prepare for MBA alone, especially when you are in UG.
How to take guidance:
- Talk to your college professor or a senior who has done MBA.
- Attend seminars, workshops or webinars related to MBA preparation.
- Follow people on LinkedIn who are MBA coaches or counselors.
Tip: Having a mentor is very beneficial as he can show you the right path and also motivate you.
6. Pay attention to business news and current affairs
MBA interviews and GD (Group Discussion) also test your general knowledge and awareness.
How to stay updated:
- Read business news for 15 minutes every day (like Economic Times, Business Standard)
- Install a good current affairs app (Inshorts, NewsBytes etc.)
- Read business-themed books — like ‘Rich Dad Poor Dad’, ‘The Lean Startup’ etc.
7. Health and mental balance are also important
It is natural to be stressed during MBA preparation, but it is also important to get out of it.
Healthy lifestyle tips:
- Sleep for 7–8 hours daily
- Exercise for 20-30 minutes at least 3 days a week
- Spend time with friends and family
- Occasionally listen to music, books or watch movies to refresh your mind
8. Make your profile strong too
MBA colleges don’t just look at scores, they also look at your profile.
How to improve your profile:
- Join a club or society in college (Debate, Finance, Marketing)
- Do an internship, even if it is virtual
- Volunteer for a social impact or NGO
- Update your achievements on LinkedIn
Conclusion: How to prepare for MBA along with graduation
If you plan on time, practice regularly, and keep yourself motivated — you can do well in graduation as well as MBA entrance exam.
MBA preparation is not a 1-month job — it requires dedication, patience, and constant effort. But once you get into a good college for MBA, your career can change completely.
So start now, take one step at a time, and make your dreams come true.
Bryan is a thoughtful writer who enjoys creating simple and useful content to help readers make informed decisions. His writing is focused on clarity, support, and real-life guidance.
