Countdown to Campus: Last-Minute Prep for IELTS, SAT & GRE

Yatharth Gulati, Co-Founder, Rostrum Education

As the admission season for the US, UK, and other Anglosphere countries approaches, here’s a guide to help you excel in all the important entrance tests

To begin with, please note that each test serves a different purpose and has a unique structure:

IELTS assesses English proficiency across Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. It’s a qualifying requirement—not a differentiator—for most applications.
SAT, now fully digital, includes Reading & Writing and Maths. Scored out of 1600, it plays a critical role in undergraduate admissions, particularly for competitive institutions where a score above 1400 is often preferred.
GRE is essential for many postgraduate programmes. It evaluates Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. The Verbal and Quant sections are scored out of 170 each, with writing graded out of 6.

Shift to Targeted Practice

Avoid revising everything. Focus on areas that offer the greatest improvement potential:

IELTS: Practice in real exam conditions using official mock tests. Pay special attention to Speaking—coaching can significantly improve performance.
SAT: Once you’ve reviewed grammar and maths fundamentals, practise timed questions and analyse errors—whether they stem from carelessness, concepts, or question types.
GRE: Learn vocabulary in context rather than rote memorisation. Focus on mixed-difficulty Quant questions to build speed and accuracy.

Quality trumps quantity. Two hours of focused practice with thorough error analysis are more effective than five hours of unfocused study.

Use Official Resources

Stick to official test material in the final phase:

IELTS: Cambridge books, British Council practice tests
SAT: Bluebook app, Khan Academy official practice sets
GRE: ETS PowerPrep tests and official guides

Avoid new or unofficial books—they may not reflect the real test format or difficulty.

Simulate Test Day

Take at least two full-length mock tests under real exam conditions. Use the same laptop, software, and timing (including breaks) as you will on test day. This builds mental and physical stamina and reduces anxiety. Review your results carefully, maintaining a question log to track common mistakes.

Prepare Logistically

Avoid last-minute stress:

Confirm your test date, venue, ID requirements, and what to carry.
For at-home tests, verify your tech setup (camera, browser, internet speed) well in advance.
Arrive at the test centre 45 minutes early if taking the exam in person.

In the final days, prioritise rest—sleep, hydration, and good nutrition directly impact focus and cognitive function.

Get Expert Input—Even Briefly

Even one session with a test prep expert can offer: