I'm not telling you not to drop a year.. In fact, my advice is actually very pointless, seeing as I haven't told you either to take or not to take a drop.. Self study should definitely not be an option.. You cannot sit at home and study by yourself.. Whoever you are, you just cannot do that.. Joining a coaching institute is a must.. But not necessary to go to Kota.. I joined one in Mumbai itself where I live. And I think it served as good a purpose as KOTA.. My prep was very good, it's just the final exam that you have to watch out for..