Learn about the GMAT exam and register for it

Go right to the source to learn the most accurate registration information such as costs, test dates and locations for the GMAT. At mba.com, you'll find a simple selection of GMAT exam dates and times, which include most weekdays during regular business hours, and information about the GMAT exam and its uses. Find out how the test is structured and get test-taking tips here as well.

I recommend: Register for the GMAT exam online at mba.com. After you've registered for the GMAT exam, you can download free test prep software, including full-length practice tests.

Sample GMAT exams ahead of time

Whether you've decided to take the GMAT examination or are still in the process of deciding, check out some GMAT sample verbal, math and analytical questions to get a better idea of how much prep you will need and in what areas.

I recommend: Start with a few basic sample questions from Kaplan to get an idea of the structure of the test and the types of questions GMAT exams include. See how you do, and if you need to see some more of the text before deciding how to prep, you can check out several sources for a free full-length GMAT practice exam -- Kaplan has one you can get if you register at its website, as does Peterson's. Get a full-length GMAT practice exam and a free interactive tutorial lesson at the Princeton Review.

Compare GMAT preparation classes for the help you need

All GMAT prep classes are different, so compare information to learn the set-up of the lessons, the focus of the preparation, and the degree of emphasis on test-taking skills. No class is universally the best class -- you'll just have to choose depending on your study needs.

I recommend: Look at how prep courses say they compare with the competitors and see if you like what they're selling. Veritas, a newer company for GMAT preparation classes, advertises more sample tests and higher scores among tutors, but is also more expensive. Kaplan, on the other hand, emphasizes its many years of test prep experience. Use the comparison charts to decide for yourself what you value in a prep course. Some, like Testmasters, may offer unique services such as telephone tutoring in addition to access to full-length tests.

Plan ahead for your prep course

GMAT preparation classes may be in high demand and fill up quickly, so check their course locations and schedules early in the year you want to take the GMAT exam to make sure you can get into a class.

I recommend: Many preparation course providers post easy links to see the schedules and locations for their GMAT preparation classes. Testmasters and Kaplan are two GMAT prep class providers you can sign up with online.

Learn some GMAT test-taking tips

The GMAT, like any standardized test, has some basic elements that are specific to the test format -- for example, you can't skip a question on the GMAT because it is computer-adjusted and answering a question right or wrong determines what question comes next. You can make the GMAT exam much easier for yourself by being familiar with the question types and test-taking strategies for this specific test.

I recommend: Admissions Consultants offers some general standardized test-taking tips and how you can apply them to the specific situations you'll encounter on the GMAT. Another good source for independent test preparation is Kaplan's strategy sessions, which are broken down by section of the test to give you more tailored advice.