The Ultimate 30-Day GRE Study Plan to Score 330
Scoring 330+ on the GRE can open doors to top-tier universities and life-changing opportunities. The best part? You don't need expensive coaching to make this happen. In this guide, we'll walk you through a step-by-step, day-by-day plan to conquer the GRE in just one month. You'll also find free recommended study material, tips on how to structure your day, and resources to track your progress.
Why Taking the GRE (and Scoring Well) Matters
If you're planning to go to grad school, the GRE is something you've probably heard about. But why is it so important? The GRE can be understood as a big test that shows schools what you know and how well you can think. It gives the admissions committee a quick picture of your reading, math, and writing skills, and scoring well tells them you're prepared for the program. Moreover, good scores also help you stand out. Lots of students with strong profiles apply to top programs, and the GRE is one way to shine. Additionally, a strong score can also help you secure funding or scholarships.
So, while the GRE isn't the only thing schools look at, it's still a big add-on. If you study and do your best, it can really open doors for your future.
Understanding the GRE Format
Before anything else, it is essential to understand the test you are preparing for. The GRE consists of:
AWA (Analytical Writing Assessment): 1 essay - Analyze an Issue (30 minutes)
2 Verbal Sections
2 Quant Sections
Study Plan
Step 1: Book Your GRE Test
Head over to the ETS website and book your GRE test date for exactly 30 to 40 days from today. Print out your confirmation and keep it visible. This creates accountability and a deadline to work toward. You've invested the money, now invest the effort.
Step 2: Take a Diagnostic Test
ETS provides two official PowerPrep practice tests. Take one of them right away to understand your current baseline score. Don't worry if the score is far from 330. Many students start with a score under 300 and still manage to reach their target by following the right plan.
Step 3: Gather Your Study Material
Concept Building Materials
1. Magoosh GRE Videos and 1,000 Questions
2. Manhattan 8-Book GRE SET
Practice Materials
1. Magoosh 1,000 Question
2. Manhattan 5lb. Book
3. Princeton 1014 Review
s (Practice Only)
Get Access to Free Unlimited GRE Study Material and Stay Updated by Signing Up.
Step 4: Phase I - (Day 1-21): Core Preparation
In Phase I, we recommend studying Quant and Verbal each day. We've broken it down for you -
Quant Preparation
-
1
Pick a Quant topic (e.g, Geometry) from the Manhattan 5lb. book.
-
2
Watch the corresponding Magoosh video or refer to the Manhattan 8-book set.
-
3
Solve three full Quant practice sets (12 questions + 15 questions per set).
-
4
Use a timer to mimic real test conditions
-
5
Review your mistakes after each set.
Verbal Preparation
-
1
There are four question types: Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence, Reading Comprehension, and Logical Reasoning (shorter RC).
-
2
Follow this for each type, spend 4-5 days per question type.
-
3
Watch Magoosh videos and review Manhattan content.
-
4
Solve three full sets of questions for that type each day.
-
5
Aim for at least 70% accuracy before moving on.
Step 5: Phase II - (Day 21-25): AWA Preparation
By the end of Phase I, you will have completed most of your verbal preparation. In Phase II, you can dedicate 5 days to the AWA section.
-
1
Use the Manhattan 5 lb. book for AWA prompts.
-
2
Write two issue essays per day on basic Notepad (refrain from using auto-correct tools).
-
3
Compare your response with the same answers in the book.
-
4
Later, use tools like Grammarly to polish grammar and clarity.
Step 6: Phase III - (Day 26-30): Mock Tests + Review
Time to simulate the real deal. In Phase III, we advise taking one full-length mock test daily. Once done, you can review your mistakes and then revise the weaker areas by evening. Some mock test resources we recommend:
-
1
Kaplan (5 tests) - 1 free
-
2
Princeton (4 tests) - 1 free
-
3
Manhattan (6 tests) - 1 free
Important
These mock tests are available at discounted rates on YMGrad at newstudymaterial.
Tips to Maximise Your Score
Baron's 800 High-Frequency Word List: Most commonly seen GRE words with high probability of showing up.
Build Your Personal Word Dictionary: Every time you encounter an unfamiliar word, note it down with a meaning and a sentence.
Use Grammarly After AWA Practice: Polish your grammar only after reviewing your raw writing.
Conclusion
Our 30-day plan has proven to be successful for hundreds of students, including those with scores as low as 300. With discipline and the right materials, a 330+ score is certainly within your reach. Don't forget to stay consistent, focused, and trust the process.
Get on a Free Five-Minute Session WIth Our Experts For a Better GRE Study Plan. Sign up now at YMGrad.
Frequently Asked Questions!
A structured study plan with consistent daily practice in both verbal and quant sections, along with regular mock tests and review, can help you achieve a high score in just 30 days.
Recommended resources include Magoosh GRE questions and videos, the Manhattan 8-book set, the Manhattan 5 lb. Book of GRE Practice Problems, and Princeton’s 1014 GRE practice questions.
No, you can self-study effectively with the right materials and a disciplined daily study schedule.
On average, 4–6 hours per day is sufficient if you are following an intensive one-month preparation plan.
Focus on understanding different question types like text completion, sentence equivalence, and reading comprehension. Practice using targeted sections and build vocabulary using lists like Barron’s 800.
Use the Barron’s 800 word list, write down unfamiliar words, their meanings, and example sentences. Create your own mini-dictionary to reinforce learning.
At least 5–6 full-length mock tests are recommended, especially in the last 5 days of your prep to simulate real test conditions and improve endurance.
ETS PowerPrep, Manhattan Prep, Kaplan, and Princeton Review offer at least one free GRE mock test each on their websites.
Use the Manhattan 5 lb. book for AWA practice. Write two essays daily in the last 5 days, compare with sample answers, and check grammar using tools like Grammarly.
Spend 1–2 days per topic based on your proficiency. If you're getting less than 70% accuracy in practice sets, dedicate an extra day to reinforce your understanding.
