Best GMAT Preparation Books 2025| Top GMAT Study Materials

After deciding to pursue an MBA from top-rated B-school, the first step is preparing for the GMAT exam. Candidates use different GMAT preparation books, join online study groups and access various expert guidance to strengthen their preparation. With plenty of GMAT books in the market, finding the right book can be a challenging.

To help the candidates, we’ve compiled a list of the best GMAT prep books and other recommended GMAT study material for boosting scores and providing a competitive edge. Let us read on to learn more!

GMAT Books and Resources 2025: Key Points

While preparing for GMAT, students should avoid collecting many GMAT books or being influenced by different flashy covers and marketing claims. Relying only on a few GMAT preparation books is beneficial than relying on more. Let us keep the following points in mind:

1. The market is flooded with GMAT preparation material, so always check whether a book aligns with the GMAT 2025 syllabus and exam pattern before purchasing. A book should also meet the preparation requirements, not just appear appealing.
2. Success depends on solving complex problems strategically and building a GMAT preparation strategy. This would include identifying priority sections, effectively managing time, and following expert GMAT preparation tips.
3. Since the GMAT follows a defined structure, practicing with the correct questions from trusted GMAT prep books is essential for achieving a high score.
4. The best GMAT study materials should include a detailed answer key and explanations. This would help confirm the correct answers and clarify the concepts.

GMAT Prep Books & Online Resources 2025

For clearing the GMAT 2025, choosing the right GMAT preparation book is very important. Here are some trusted resources for the best GMAT prep books:

GMAT Official Guide (OG)

The GMAT Official Guide is the foundation for GMAT prep and should be the first book for many aspirants’ studies. Known as GMAT OG, it contains around 1,000 real questions from previous years, detailed explanations, essay writing guidance, and a structured question set. It is recommended that this book be completed atleast twice during preparation. The GMAT Official Guide Bundle is available as an ebook with an online question bank for around $81.99.

IMS Manya GMAT Prep Resources

In addition to international publishers, Indian students can also benefit from IMS Manya GMAT study materials, which are designed to complement top GMAT preparation books. IMS Manya has good resources, online practice platforms, and expert mentorship, making it one of the most reliable sources.

Manhattan Prep Complete Strategy Guide Set

The Manhattan GMAT books provide comprehensive coverage of the GMAT syllabus. These guides can be purchased individually or in a bundle, with one-year access to online resources and practice tests. Experts consistently rated them among the best GMAT prep books. Combining both the Manhattan Prep and GMAT OG ensures a more holistic approach.

GMAT Official Advanced Questions

After completing GMAT OG and Manhattan Prep, students should practice with the GMAT Official Advanced Questions. This book includes more challenging problems from real exams, making it an excellent resource for those aiming for high percentile scores. It is also available as an ebook with an online bank for $29.99, sharpening problem-solving for higher difficulty levels.

Kaplan GMAT Prep Plus

Kaplan’s GMAT Prep Plus is ideal for more focused preparation. It excludes unnecessary concepts and provides more exam-specific strategies. With a separate GMAT math prep book and verbal workbooks, Kaplan helps build strong fundamentals for both quantitative and verbal. This is also regarded as one of the best GMAT quant prep books for those struggling.

Vertias Prep Complete GMAT Course Set

The Veritas GMAT set provides more detailed explanations for each of the GMAT sections. Its practice questions are challenging and unique, offering a more in-depth prep. However, it includes only one full-length online practice test, fewer than other publishers. Still, Veritas provides hundreds of practice questions online for additional practice.

Best GMAT Preparation Books for Different Levels

Popular GMAT Online Resources for Preparation

In addition to GMAT preparation books, students can access high-quality GMAT online resources to strengthen their preparation. Many platforms would offer free GMAT study materials, practice tests, and discussion forums where aspirants can interact with experts and peers. Joining these resources would help clarify doubts, improve problem-solving skills, and build exam strategies. Several free and paid GMAT practice tests are also available in real test environments.

Here are some popular GMAT prep resources online:

1. Beat the GMAT:  A trusted global forum for GMAT candidates
2. GMAT Club Forum: Extensive practice questions, discussions, and expert tips.
3. Thursday with Ron: Free sessions with a deeper insight into GMAT concepts.
4. Magoosh YouTube Channel: Easy-to-follow video lessons and strategies for the test.

Depending on a structured study plan, consistent practice, and disciplined preparation, GMAT study materials and online resources can be useful for success. A perfect blend of the best GMAT prep book with reliable online tools can be helpful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which GMAT book is best?

The GMAT Official Guide (OG) is the best GMAT test book, which offers real past exam questions, detailed explanations, and also practice tests. You can pair it with Manhattan Prep or Kaplan for advanced prep.

Can I get 700 in GMAT without coaching?

Yes, scoring 700+ in GMAT without coaching is possible. With the right GMAT prep books, one resource, consistent practice, and mock tests, disciplined self-study can help achieve your target score.

Is 456 a bad GMAT score?

A GMAT score 465 is considered low, as most top B-schools require 650-750. With the right GMAT preparation strategy and test books, you can significantly improve your score.

What are the top-rated GMAT prep books for 2025?

The top GMAT prep books include GMAT Official Guide, Manhattan Prep Strategy Guides, Kaplan GMAT Prep Plus, Veritas Prep, and others, covering all difficulty levels from beginners to advanced.

How many months are required for GMAT preparation?

GMAT preparation takes around 3 to 6 months depends on your study plan. Using the best GMAT study materials, practice tests as well as consistent revision do ensure strong performance in the exam.