While the GMAT exam might seem intimidating at first glance, you can be ready for it with the right study plan, a good work ethic, and the help of a skilled tutor who has taken the test before.

The road to a successful GMAT score is long with practice tests, study hours, and a pretty penny laid down just to schedule the exam. But things can go a whole lot smoother if you find a GMAT tutor who can help you prepare for and do well on a test you must take if an MBA is in your future.

Even so, no two GMAT tutors are alike and there’s nothing to prevent anyone — whether qualified or otherwise — from presenting his or her self as a GMAT tutor. So it behooves you to consider what to look for in the study helper you will ultimately choose to get you ready for the test. Read on for a look at the sorts of questions you need to ask in order to find the best GMAT tutor for you.

Question 1: What kind of experience do you have?

Before you choose a GMAT tutor, you’ll want to know how long he or she has been providing guidance to students preparing for the test. Someone whose GMAT tutoring experience can be counted in terms of months rather than in terms of years is probably a bit green behind the ears. When looking at the experience level of tutors, also consider your strengths and weaknesses so that you can find the best GMAT tutor for your circumstances. For instance, if math isn’t your forte, select a tutor who can help you address this deficiency.

Question 2: Do you have the expertise to help me with all aspects of the GMAT exam?

You’ll have three and a half hours to complete the GMAT exam. The four sections are as follows:

1. Analytical Writing Assessment (1 topic)
2. Integrated Reasoning  (12 questions)
3. Quantitative (37 questions)
4. Verbal (41 questions)

When you’re talking to prospective tutors, you should ask them if they have the skill set needed to help you in all of the sections. Some may have solid skills in only some of the sections. In order to be prepared for the test, you must find a GMAT tutor who can adequately cover all the bases.

Question 3: Do you customize your program to meet the needs of students?

This is a particularly important question because it could be the difference between getting instruction based on a one-size-fits-all approach and getting instruction based on a one-size-fits-one approach. The latter, of course, is best. Steer clear of tutors who offer one general program for all of their students, and instead find a tutor who will take the time to learn what you want and to develop a customized program geared towards your needs.

Doing well on the GMAT is important since admissions officials at the MBA schools you apply to will use the result to determine whether or not to offer you a letter of acceptance. So ask the aforementioned questions and select the best GMAT tutor for you. Good luck!