8 Prepare for the GMAT and TOEFL if applicable

Don't take this test unprepared. Also, this may sound strange, but I do NOTrecommend a GMAT review course. I took one and disliked it. The course moved atthe pace of the group's slowest student and I had to drive to a classroom when Icould have spent the commuting time studying instead. I recommend buying a goodbook or two and studying at your own pace and at your own optimal hours.
Based on numerous emails I have received, it seems many of you areinternational applicants to whom English is not your native language. I wish Icould tell you something more but you should study for the TOEFL (test ofEnglish as a foreign language).

9 Identify business schools of Interest

Develop criteria such as geography, recruitment, school reputation, tuition,faculty, student body, etc. In this first step you want to start with thelargest number of schools and then apply your criteria and narrow down yourchoices. Although the schools you are currently considering will end up in thenarrowed down list, you may be surprised to uncover some other schools as well.Keep in mind that you don't want to undersell yourself and automatically excludethe top schools. If you're even close to borderline for admission, there arethings you can do to increase your chances. (Read on.) Establish criteria suchas courses offered, companies that recruit at the school, opportunities forinternships, study abroad, etc.

10 Research post MBA career opportunities and business schools

First make sure you know why you want to go to school and have a clear ideaof what you may want to do when you graduate. Often times, as in college, yourcareer goals will change. However, you are about to make a big investment ofyour time and money, so make sure you give your decision the proper amount ofthought and research.