The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a necessary component for applying for graduate school, so it's a test that everyone seeking an MBA must take. The GMAT has three sections: analytical writing, quantitative and verbal. The purpose of the test is to verify that you have the necessary basic skills for graduate-level work in the business field. Students interested in taking the GMAT and applying for business school usually take the test in the spring before they apply; taking the test early allows for time to re-take it if you want to try to increase your score.
Select the programs to which you want to apply and submit the applications about six months before the program starts. Business schools are ranked, so you should find the best program that you believe is right for you. Also, different schools have different admissions requirements, so ensure you qualify for the program and submit all the proper documentation. For example, some programs may require three letters of recommendation, while others may require four. Read the requirements for each program and follow them exactly.
Once you've been accepted to your business school program, you can begin taking classes. You must take classes that fulfill the requirements of your program. Full-time MBA programs take 21 months to complete; part-time programs generally take two and a half to three years to complete. Depending on your program, you'll be able to take a certain number of electives, that is, classes that fulfill general requirements but have topics and subject matters that you choose.
After you complete your MBA, you'll graduate and can move into the business market. Your graduate degree will allow you to advance in your career by making you better qualified than many of those against whom you'll compete. You'll be in an especially good position upon graduation if you participate in internships during your MBA studies, as you'll make contacts with potential employers that you can contact when you graduate.