If you’re applying to an Executive MBA program, chances are you’ve come across the Executive Assessment (EA), a shorter, more business-focused alternative to the GMAT, designed specifically for experienced professionals. And like many busy candidates, you’re probably asking yourself a very common question: “Is hiring an EA tutor worth it?”
It’s a fair question. After all, the EA is only 90 minutes long, has no essay section, and seems less intimidating than the GMAT. But don’t let its compact format fool you. The EA is still a serious exam, and your score can play a key role in your admissions decision.
What Makes the Executive Assessment Unique?
Before we get into the value of tutoring, let’s quickly understand the EA’s structure.
The Executive Assessment is broken into three 30-minute sections:
- Integrated Reasoning (IR) – 12 questions
- Verbal Reasoning – 14 questions
- Quantitative Reasoning – 14 questions
Your performance is scored on a scale of 100 to 200, with most top EMBA programs expecting scores around 150. Unlike the GMAT, the EA focuses more on decision-making, critical thinking, and business reasoning—skills professionals should have developed on the job.
That said, many candidates haven’t taken a standardized test in years. Others are rusty in math or feel unsure about verbal timing. And most are juggling full-time jobs, families, and major life responsibilities.
That’s where an EA tutor comes in.
What Does an EA Tutor Actually Do?
An experienced EA tutor is more than just a test expert. They’re a strategic coach who helps you:
- Understand how the EA is structured and scored
- Identify your strengths and weaknesses
- Learn time-saving strategies and shortcuts
- Create a focused, efficient study plan
- Build test-day confidence
Unlike self-study programs or one-size-fits-all group courses, private tutoring is personalized. Your tutor focuses on you: your skill level, your timeline, and your goals.
Whether you’re aiming for a competitive score or just want to make sure you meet the minimum, a tutor helps you get there faster and more efficiently.
When Is Hiring an EA Tutor Worth It?
While not everyone needs a tutor, many applicants find it’s the best decision they made during their MBA journey. Here’s when hiring a tutor really pays off:
1. You’re Short on Time
Most Executive MBA applicants are working professionals. You don’t have 10 hours a week to waste reviewing topics that aren’t relevant or practicing problems the wrong way. An EA tutor helps you:
- Use your time wisely
- Focus only on what matters
- Stay accountable to your schedule
In short, they help you study smarter, not longer.
2. You’re Out of Practice with Standardized Tests
If it’s been years since your last math class—or you’ve never taken a test like this in English—an EA tutor can help you rebuild foundational skills and learn how to think the way the test wants you to.
3. You Need a Competitive Score
Top schools like LBS, INSEAD, and NYU Abu Dhabi use the EA to assess whether you can handle the rigors of an EMBA. If you want to stand out (or make up for a weaker GPA), a strong EA score matters. An EA tutor can help you maximize your performance.
4. You Don’t Know Where to Start
Studying for the EA can be overwhelming at first. What resources are best? How many practice tests should you take? What does a good score even look like?
Instead of spinning your wheels, a tutor gives you a roadmap that’s proven to work.
Keep in mind that the only official materials to prepare for the EA are minimal. Your tutor must prepare materials for you; you can’t just use old GMAT stuff.
What If You’re Still Not Sure?
Maybe you’re a strong test-taker. Maybe you’re confident in math and verbal and think you can handle it solo.
That’s totally fair.
But before you rule tutoring out, ask yourself:
- How much is my time worth?
- Would a higher score improve my chances at my dream school?
- Could a tutor help me get there faster or with less stress?
If the answer to any of those is yes, tutoring may be more valuable than you think.
Is Hiring an EA Tutor Worth the Cost?
Let’s talk money. EA tutoring in Dubai can range from AED 275 to AED 900 per hour, depending on the tutor’s experience and your chosen package. It’s an investment—but so is your EMBA.
Let’s put it in context:
- A single admissions mistake or low test score could cost you a spot at your target school.
- A stronger application could lead to scholarships or faster admissions decisions.
- Getting into a top EMBA program could result in significant career growth or salary increases in the long run.
Hiring a tutor isn’t an expense! It’s a strategic move to increase your ROI.
What to Look for in an EA Tutor
If you decide to go the tutoring route, make sure you choose wisely. Look for someone who:
- Has specific experience with the Executive Assessment (not just the GMAT)
- Understands the admissions process for top EMBA programs
- Offers customized study plans and flexible scheduling
- Can provide references or testimonials from past students
Avoid one-size-fits-all tutoring companies where you’re just a number. Instead, choose a tutor who will take time to understand your goals and get you there efficiently.
A good EA tutor doesn’t just teach you how to solve problems. They give you structure, strategy, confidence, and a clear path to success. In a high-stakes process like EMBA admissions, that’s an edge worth investing in.
Ready to Get Expert Help With the Executive Assessment?
We offer 1-on-1 EA tutoring and full EMBA application support from an experienced advisor who’s helped students get into programs like LBS, INSEAD, Booth, and HEC Paris.
✅ Personalized tutoring for EA Quant, Verbal, and IR
✅ Application coaching, resume and essay editing, and interview prep
✅ 99% acceptance rate across top EMBA programs in the UAE
Book your free consultation today! Let’s make your Executive MBA goals a reality.
