A few questions you need to ask yourself

What is my target GAT score?

Most universities require a minimum GAT score or score range for students who have been accepted to the program. Look up the average score for students at the university you're applying to. This score should be your target GAT score. If you have a high target GAT score, you're going to need to study more than the average test taker.

How well did I score on the practice GAT?

Take the score you got on the practice GAT and compare it to your target score. The larger the gap, the longer you are going to need to study to close it.

When do I need to take the GAT?

Determine how long you have before you need to take the test. You don’t want to wait too long into the application process to take the GAT. It is important to give yourself enough time to retake it just in case. So think about the application deadlines for the schools you are applying to and plan accordingly.

Use your answers to the above questions to determine how long you need to study for the GAT. At a minimum, you should plan at least one month to prepare for the GAT. Planning to spend two to three months would be even better. If you will only be devoting an hour or less each day to prep and need a top score, you should plan on studying for four to five months.

Get Support

A lot of people choose to take a GAT prep course as a way of studying for the GAT. Prep courses can be really helpful. They are typically taught by individuals who are familiar with the test and full of tips on how to score high. GAT prep courses are also very structured. They will teach you how to study for the test so that you can use your time efficiently and effectively.

Unfortunately, GAT prep courses can be expensive. They might also require a significant time commitment (100 hours or more). If you can't afford a GAT prep course, you should seek out free GAT prep books or online prep from your local library. You can also look for free GAT prep materials online.