• May 25, 2024
• Sanjana Nadella, IIM Rohtak

Didn't get through to your dream college via IPMAT? Don't worry! A drop year could be your golden ticket to success. By taking a year off to prepare thoroughly and strategically, you can improve your chances of acing the IPMAT the coming year. Here’s why you should consider a drop year and how to make the most of it.

WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER A DROP YEAR

• ADDITIONAL TIME TO PREPARE: With a whole year in your hands, you will have additional time to prepare for the exam. This means you will have a lot of time to clear your basics, plan your strategies and practice consistently and finally ace the exam.
• BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE EXAM: Dedicating a year to preparation allows you to understand the exam format more comprehensively. You can analyze and identify which topics to focus on, manage your strengths and weaknesses effectively, and ultimately create a competitive edge over others.
• A CHANCE TO BUILD YOUR PROFILE: A strong profile is considered a brownie point to secure your spot in the IIMs. A drop year gives you an opportunity to expand your profiles by taking internships, participating in competitions, volunteering or honing specific talents.
• OPPORTUNITY TO GET INTO YOUR DREAM COLLEGE: With all that hard work and dedication invested throughout the drop year, you’ll finally have a better shot at getting into the dream college you’ve been aiming for.

HOW TO PREPARE DURING YOUR DROP YEAR

• ANALYZE YOUR FIRST ATTEMPT: Reflect on your previous attempt to see what went wrong and in which areas you were able to thrive. This will help in understanding in what areas you need improvement and focus on those.
• DEVELOP PERSONAL GOALS AND PLANS: Set clear and achievable goals, whether it is mastering specific topics, building your profile or having objectives that will keep you motivated and on track. Create a plan to achieve these goals and review your progress regularly.
• MANAGE TIME EFFECTIVELY: Effective time management is important to making the most of your drop year. Create a realistic schedule that allows ample time for studying, revising, and relaxing. Stick to your plan and adjust it as needed.
• STAY CONSISTENT: Consistency is key. Dedicate a fixed number of hours each day to study and stick to your schedule. Avoid burnout by taking regular breaks and keeping your study sessions productive.
• DO NOT TAKE IN MENTAL PRESSURE: While the pressure to succeed can be intense, managing stress and maintaining a positive mindset are crucial for effective preparation. Practice mindfulness, take regular breaks, and ensure your well-being.
• FIND OPPORTUNITIES TO BUILD YOUR PROFILE: Look for ways to build your profile. Find internships, do volunteer work, participate in competitions, or develop new skills. It won’t only help in building your profile but also creates a sense of accomplishment.

Ultimately, the decision to take a drop year for IPMAT is yours, and you should be confident in whatever choice you make. Remember, you will have to this time wisely and view it as your final opportunity to prove yourself. Stay focused, stay positive, and make this year count. If you are still confused, book a mentoring session with us now!

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